How can we ensure our leaders remain faithful to God's commands today? The Cautionary Tale of Joash 2 Chronicles 24:25 – “When the Arameans withdrew, they left Joash severely wounded. And his servants conspired against him for the murder of the son of Jehoiada the priest. They killed him on his bed, and he was buried in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings.” Joash’s bright beginning faded because he lost godly accountability. The same king who repaired the temple (v. 13) embraced idolatry (vv. 17-18), silenced prophetic rebuke (vv. 20-22), and died in disgrace (v. 25). His story warns today’s church to guard its leaders from a similar slide. Key Principles for Today • Leaders thrive under strong, godly counsel—Joash prospered “all the days of Jehoiada the priest” (v. 2). • Rulers must submit to Scripture, never rise above it (Deuteronomy 17:18-20). • Unchecked sin in leadership poisons an entire community (Proverbs 29:12). • Faithful believers may—and must—confront erring leaders (2 Chronicles 24:20; Galatians 2:11-14). • God will ultimately judge unfaithful leadership; Joash’s end proves He is not mocked (Galatians 6:7). Practical Steps for God’s People Choose leaders for spiritual character, not charisma Surround leaders with a plurality of mature counselors Keep Scripture central through regular public reading and teaching – 1 Timothy 4:13; Nehemiah 8:8 Insist on transparent, accountable structures – 2 Corinthians 8:20-21; 1 Peter 5:2-3 Encourage prophetic, corrective voices Pray continually for those in authority – 1 Timothy 2:1-2; Psalm 72:15 Discipline persistent disobedience, even at high levels – Matthew 18:15-17; 1 Corinthians 5:12-13 Celebrate and remember faithful service – Hebrews 13:7; Philippians 2:29 Supporting Scriptures to Anchor Our Approach • 2 Chronicles 24 – the rise and fall of Joash • Psalm 101 – a ruler’s pledge of integrity • Proverbs 21:1 – the Lord channels a leader’s heart • Romans 13:1-4 – God’s design for governing authority • 1 Peter 5:2-4 – shepherd-like leadership in the church Closing Encouragement When God’s people diligently select, support, and hold their leaders accountable under the clear light of Scripture, those leaders are far more likely to finish well, and the whole community flourishes. Joash’s tombstone stands as a timeless reminder: vigilance today prevents tragedy tomorrow. |
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