How does Jehoahaz's story connect with God's covenant promises in the Old Testament? Setting the Scene 2 Kings 13:9 sums up Jehoahaz’s reign: “Jehoahaz rested with his fathers, and they buried him in Samaria; and his son Joash became king in his place.” (2 Kings 13:9) But verses 1-8 supply the covenant backdrop: • v.2 – “He did evil in the sight of the LORD…” • v.3 – “So the anger of the LORD burned against Israel, and He delivered them continually into the hand of Hazael…” • v.4 – “Then Jehoahaz sought the favor of the LORD, and the LORD listened to him…” • v.5 – “Therefore the LORD gave Israel a deliverer…” Jehoahaz and the Mosaic Covenant Deuteronomy 28:15-68 had warned that persistent idolatry would bring foreign oppression. Jehoahaz’s era shows those covenant curses playing out: • Foreign domination (2 Kings 13:3) mirrors Deuteronomy 28:25, 33. • National weakness—only “fifty horsemen, ten chariots, and ten thousand foot soldiers” left (v.7)—echoes Leviticus 26:36-37, where God promised to break Israel’s pride and strength. Yet even Mosaic warnings included a promise of mercy when the people cried out (Leviticus 26:40-45). Jehoahaz “sought the favor of the LORD, and the LORD listened” (v.4). God’s answer upholds His covenant faithfulness: discipline is real, but so is compassion. Mercy Rooted in the Abrahamic Promise God’s decision to “give Israel a deliverer” (v.5) reflects Genesis 12:2-3; 15:5-7. He would not allow Israel to be wiped out, because He had sworn to Abraham a nation and a blessing for the world. Even in Israel’s rebellion, the Abrahamic covenant undergirds their survival. Echoes of the Davidic Covenant Although Jehoahaz ruled the northern kingdom, his story points forward to the house of David: • Temporary deliverance anticipates the ultimate Deliverer promised to David (2 Samuel 7:12-16). • Israel’s fading strength highlights the need for that righteous King whose rule will bring lasting peace (Isaiah 9:6-7). Key Connections and Observations • Sin brings covenant curses—Jehoahaz illustrates that the Lord’s warnings are literal and unavoidable. • Repentance moves God’s heart—His willingness to listen (v.4) shows that mercy is built into His covenant dealings. • Preservation of Israel is guaranteed—not because rulers are faithful, but because God is bound to His promises to Abraham. • Jehoahaz’s fleeting relief spotlights the coming Messiah—the ultimate covenant fulfillment who rescues both Israel and the nations. |
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