2 Kings 11:12

Then Jehoiada brought out the king's son, put the crown on him, presented him with the Testimony, and proclaimed him king. They anointed him, and the people clapped their hands and declared, "Long live the king!"

Study Bible

Then Jehoiada
Jehoiada was a high priest, a man of God who played a crucial role in preserving the Davidic line. His actions were not just politically motivated but were deeply rooted in his commitment to God's covenant with David. The name Jehoiada means "Yahweh knows," reflecting his divine appointment and wisdom in this critical moment of Judah's history.

brought out the king’s son
The king's son, Joash, had been hidden in the temple for six years to protect him from Athaliah's murderous rampage. This act of bringing him out signifies the revelation of God's providence and the fulfillment of His promises. It is a moment of divine intervention where the rightful heir is revealed, symbolizing hope and restoration for the nation.

put the crown on him
The crown is a symbol of authority and legitimacy. In Hebrew, the word for crown is "nezer," which also means consecration. This act signifies that Joash is not only the political leader but also set apart for God's purposes. It is a reminder of the divine right of kingship that is bestowed by God Himself.

gave him the Testimony
The Testimony likely refers to a copy of the Law, as prescribed in Deuteronomy 17:18-20. This act underscores the importance of the king's role as a guardian of God's law. It is a reminder that true leadership is rooted in obedience to God's Word, and the king is to rule under God's authority.

proclaimed him king
The proclamation is a public declaration of Joash's rightful place as king. It is an acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and the restoration of the Davidic line. This moment is a fulfillment of God's promises and a testament to His faithfulness.

They anointed him
Anointing with oil was a sacred act that symbolized the Holy Spirit's empowerment and God's blessing. In Hebrew, the word for anoint is "mashach," from which we get "Messiah," meaning "anointed one." This act signifies that Joash is chosen by God to lead His people, foreshadowing the ultimate Anointed One, Jesus Christ.

and the people clapped their hands
Clapping hands is an expression of joy and approval. It reflects the people's relief and celebration at the restoration of the rightful king. This communal act signifies unity and support for Joash's reign, highlighting the collective hope for a future under God's ordained leadership.

and shouted, 'Long live the king!'
This acclamation is a traditional expression of loyalty and hope for a prosperous reign. It is a declaration of allegiance to the king and an invocation of God's blessing upon his life and rule. This phrase encapsulates the people's desire for stability, peace, and divine favor under Joash's leadership.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoiada
A high priest who played a crucial role in preserving the Davidic line by protecting Joash and orchestrating his coronation.

2. Joash (Jehoash)
The young king who was hidden in the temple for six years to protect him from Queen Athaliah's murderous intentions.

3. Athaliah
The queen mother who usurped the throne of Judah and sought to destroy the royal family.

4. The Temple
The sacred place where Joash was hidden and later crowned, symbolizing God's protection and presence.

5. The Anointing and Coronation
The event where Joash was anointed as king, signifying God's chosen leadership and the restoration of rightful rule.

Teaching Points

Divine Protection and Providence
God's hand is evident in preserving the Davidic line through Joash, reminding us of His sovereignty and faithfulness to His promises.

The Role of Godly Leadership
Jehoiada's courage and faithfulness demonstrate the impact of godly leadership in guiding and protecting God's people.

The Importance of Anointing
The anointing of Joash signifies God's choice and empowerment, encouraging us to seek God's anointing in our own lives for His purposes.

Restoration and Renewal
Joash's coronation marks a renewal of rightful leadership, inspiring us to seek restoration in areas of our lives where God's order needs to be reestablished.

Celebration of God's Faithfulness
The people's rejoicing at Joash's coronation reflects the joy of witnessing God's promises fulfilled, prompting us to celebrate God's work in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehoiada's role in Joash's coronation inspire us to act courageously in our own spheres of influence?

2. In what ways can we seek God's anointing in our daily lives, and how does this passage encourage us to do so?

3. How does the preservation of the Davidic line through Joash point to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises?

4. What parallels can we draw between Joash's coronation and the anointing of Jesus as King, and how does this deepen our understanding of Christ's kingship?

5. How can we apply the principles of restoration and renewal seen in Joash's account to areas of our lives that need God's order and leadership?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 10:1
The anointing of Saul as king, which parallels the anointing of Joash, highlighting the divine appointment of leaders.

Psalm 2:6-7
The declaration of God's chosen king, reflecting the divine legitimacy of Joash's rule.

2 Chronicles 23:11
A parallel account of Joash's coronation, providing additional details and affirming the importance of the event.

Exodus 25:16
The reference to the "Testimony" given to Joash, connecting to the Ark of the Covenant and God's law.

Isaiah 9:6-7
The prophecy of a righteous king, foreshadowing the ultimate fulfillment in Christ, the eternal King.