Topical Bible: Homicide: Felonious: Joash

◄ Homicide: Felonious: Joash ►

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Introduction

The account of Joash, also known as Jehoash, provides a significant biblical example of felonious homicide. Joash was a king of Judah whose reign is marked by both religious reform and tragic moral failure. His account is primarily found in 2 Kings 11-12 and 2 Chronicles 22-24. The narrative of Joash's life and reign offers insights into the complexities of leadership, the influence of mentorship, and the consequences of turning away from God.

Background

Joash was the son of Ahaziah, king of Judah, and was saved from the massacre of the royal family by his aunt Jehosheba, who hid him in the temple for six years (2 Kings 11:2-3). During this time, the wicked Athaliah, his grandmother, usurped the throne. Joash was eventually crowned king at the age of seven, under the guidance of the high priest Jehoiada, who played a crucial role in his early reign (2 Kings 11:12).

Religious Reforms

Under Jehoiada's mentorship, Joash initiated significant religious reforms. He repaired the temple and restored proper worship practices, demonstrating a commitment to the covenant with God (2 Kings 12:4-15). The influence of Jehoiada was pivotal in maintaining Joash's fidelity to God during the early years of his reign.

Moral Decline and Felonious Homicide

After the death of Jehoiada, Joash's reign took a dark turn. He succumbed to the influence of corrupt officials and abandoned the worship of Yahweh, leading the nation into idolatry (2 Chronicles 24:17-18). This apostasy provoked divine judgment, and prophets were sent to call the king and the people back to God.

One of these prophets was Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada. Zechariah boldly confronted Joash and the people for their transgressions, declaring, "This is what God says: ‘Why do you transgress the commandments of the LORD so that you cannot prosper? Because you have forsaken the LORD, He has forsaken you’” (2 Chronicles 24:20). In response to this rebuke, Joash ordered the stoning of Zechariah in the temple court, committing a felonious act of homicide against the son of his former mentor (2 Chronicles 24:21).

Consequences

The murder of Zechariah marked a significant moral and spiritual decline in Joash's reign. This act of felonious homicide was not only a personal betrayal but also a grave sin against God. The blood of Zechariah cried out for justice, and divine retribution soon followed. The Arameans invaded Judah, and Joash was severely wounded. His own servants conspired against him and assassinated him on his bed, fulfilling the judgment for his crimes (2 Chronicles 24:23-25).

Conclusion

The account of Joash serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of forsaking godly counsel and the severe consequences of felonious actions. His life illustrates the tragic results of turning away from righteousness and the inevitable judgment that follows such transgressions.

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2 Chronicles 24:21
And they conspired against him, and stoned him with stones at the commandment of the king in the court of the house of the LORD.
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