What role does trust play in the actions of the commanders in 2 Kings 11:9? The Setting: A Treacherous Court and a Hidden Child-King - Athaliah had murdered nearly all royal heirs (2 Kings 11:1). - Jehoiada the high priest secretly kept the last surviving son, Joash, in the temple for six years (11:3). - The nation was fragile; one misstep could mean death for everyone involved. Trust Displayed: Immediate and Complete Obedience - “So the commanders of hundreds did exactly as Jehoiada the priest had ordered. Each one took his men—those coming in on the Sabbath and those going out—and came to Jehoiada the priest.” (2 Kings 11:9) - No bargaining, delay, or half-hearted compliance; their trust expressed itself in swift, precise action. Layers of Trust at Work • Trust in God’s covenant promises – God had promised David “a lamp in Jerusalem” (1 Kings 11:36). – Jehoiada’s plan aligned with this promise; the commanders acted believing God would honor it. • Trust in Scripture’s authority – The Law assigned priests to instruct and lead in sacred matters (Deuteronomy 17:9-12). – By following Jehoiada, the commanders affirmed biblical order. • Trust in Jehoiada’s character and wisdom – Years of faithful priestly service had earned credibility (Proverbs 16:20). – His courage and strategic clarity inspired confidence. • Trust among the commanders themselves – Collective obedience required mutual reliance; betrayal would have been fatal. – Their unity fulfilled Ecclesiastes 4:12: “a cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” • Distrust of the wicked ruler – They wisely withheld allegiance from Athaliah (Psalm 1:1). – True trust distinguishes between God-fearing leadership and godless tyranny. Fruit of Trust: Protection and Preservation - The boy-king Joash was crowned safely (2 Kings 11:12). - Athaliah was deposed without civil war (11:16). - The covenant between the LORD, the king, and the people was renewed (11:17). - Worship was restored, idols destroyed (11:18). - The land “was quiet,” enjoying peace that trust in righteous leadership produced (11:20). Lessons for Today - Genuine trust in God leads to courageous obedience when stakes are high (Psalm 37:3-5). - Trustworthy leaders are recognized by fidelity to Scripture and consistent godly character (Hebrews 13:7). - Corporate trust knits believers together for decisive, united action against evil (Philippians 1:27). - Withholding trust from ungodly authority is sometimes necessary to remain faithful to God (Acts 5:29). |
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