Topical Encyclopedia
Jehoahaz, the son of Jehu, was the eleventh king of the northern kingdom of Israel. His reign is recorded in the biblical narrative found in
2 Kings 13. Jehoahaz ascended to the throne during a tumultuous period marked by spiritual decline and political instability. Despite his shortcomings, the account of Jehoahaz provides a notable example of divine response to human supplication.
Historical ContextJehoahaz reigned over Israel for seventeen years, during which time the nation faced significant oppression from the Arameans under King Hazael and his son Ben-Hadad. This period of subjugation was a direct consequence of Israel's persistent idolatry and departure from the covenantal laws established by Yahweh. The biblical text highlights that Jehoahaz "did evil in the sight of the LORD and followed the sins of Jeroboam son of Nebat, which he had caused Israel to commit" (
2 Kings 13:2).
Jehoahaz's PrayerIn the face of overwhelming adversity and the diminishing strength of his army, Jehoahaz turned to the LORD in desperation. The scripture records, "Then Jehoahaz sought the favor of the LORD, and the LORD listened to him, for He saw the oppression of Israel, how the king of Aram had oppressed them" (
2 Kings 13:4). This act of seeking divine intervention, despite Jehoahaz's previous unfaithfulness, underscores the mercy and responsiveness of God to sincere prayer.
Divine ResponseThe LORD's response to Jehoahaz's plea is a testament to His compassion and willingness to deliver His people when they call upon Him. The narrative continues, "So the LORD gave Israel a deliverer, and they escaped from the hand of the Arameans. Then the Israelites dwelt in their own homes as they had before" (
2 Kings 13:5). Although the identity of this deliverer is not explicitly mentioned in the text, the deliverance itself signifies a temporary reprieve from foreign domination, allowing Israel a period of relative peace.
Spiritual ImplicationsThe account of Jehoahaz's answered prayer serves as a reminder of the power of repentance and the efficacy of prayer, even when offered by those who have strayed from God's commandments. It illustrates that God's grace can extend beyond human failings, providing hope and restoration. However, the narrative also cautions against a superficial return to God, as the subsequent verses reveal that Jehoahaz's reforms were incomplete, and the nation quickly reverted to its idolatrous practices.
LegacyJehoahaz's reign, though marked by divine intervention, ultimately did not lead to a lasting spiritual revival in Israel. His account is a poignant example of the complexities of human leadership and the persistent need for genuine repentance and faithfulness to God. The account of Jehoahaz's prayer and its answer remains a significant illustration of God's readiness to hear and respond to those who earnestly seek Him, even amidst a backdrop of widespread apostasy.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
2 Kings 13:4And Jehoahaz sought the LORD, and the LORD listened to him: for he saw the oppression of Israel, because the king of Syria oppressed them.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Resources
Why is daily prayer important? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a prayer vigil? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the different types of prayer? | GotQuestions.orgPrayer: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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