So Jehoash king of Israel advanced, and he and Amaziah king of Judah faced each other at Beth-shemesh in Judah. So Jehoash king of Israel advancedJehoash, also known as Joash, was the king of the northern kingdom of Israel. His reign is noted in 2 Kings 13:10-25. He was a contemporary of Amaziah, king of Judah. The term "advanced" indicates a movement towards confrontation, suggesting a military campaign. This reflects the ongoing hostilities between the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah, which were often marked by territorial disputes and power struggles. and he and Amaziah king of Judah faced each other at Beth-shemesh in Judah Persons / Places / Events 1. Jehoash (Joash) King of IsraelThe king of the northern kingdom of Israel, who reigned during a time of conflict with Judah. His actions in this passage reflect the political and military tensions between the two kingdoms. 2. Amaziah King of Judah The king of the southern kingdom of Judah, known for his initial obedience to God but later pride and idolatry. His challenge to Jehoash led to the confrontation at Beth-shemesh. 3. Beth-shemesh A city in Judah where the confrontation between Amaziah and Jehoash took place. It was a strategic location, often associated with conflict and significant events in Israel's history. 4. The Confrontation This event marks a significant military clash between the kingdoms of Israel and Judah, highlighting the division and strife within the people of God. 5. Historical Context This event occurs during a period of divided monarchy in Israel's history, characterized by frequent conflicts and a departure from wholehearted devotion to God. Teaching Points The Dangers of PrideAmaziah's pride led him to challenge Jehoash, resulting in unnecessary conflict and defeat. Pride can blind us to wise counsel and lead to destructive decisions. The Importance of Seeking God's Guidance Before engaging in significant actions, seeking God's will and guidance is crucial. Amaziah's failure to do so serves as a warning to us. Unity Among God's People The division between Israel and Judah weakened both kingdoms. As believers, we should strive for unity and reconciliation within the body of Christ. Learning from History The historical accounts in Scripture serve as lessons for us. Reflecting on past events can guide us in making godly decisions today. Consequences of Disobedience Amaziah's partial obedience and subsequent disobedience led to his downfall. Obedience to God should be complete and wholehearted. Bible Study Questions 1. What can we learn from Amaziah's prideful challenge to Jehoash, and how can we guard against pride in our own lives?2. How does the confrontation at Beth-shemesh illustrate the consequences of division among God's people, and what steps can we take to promote unity in our communities? 3. In what ways does Amaziah's account remind us of the importance of seeking God's guidance before making decisions? 4. How can the historical context of Israel and Judah's division inform our understanding of the importance of obedience to God? 5. Reflect on a time when you faced a decision similar to Amaziah's. How did seeking or not seeking God's guidance impact the outcome? Connections to Other Scriptures 2 Kings 14:8-14Provides a parallel account of the same event, offering additional details about the motivations and outcomes of the confrontation between Amaziah and Jehoash. Proverbs 16:18 Relates to the theme of pride preceding a fall, which is evident in Amaziah's actions leading to his defeat. 1 Samuel 15:22-23 Highlights the importance of obedience to God over prideful actions, a lesson Amaziah failed to heed.
People Ahaziah, Amaziah, Benjamin, David, Edomites, Jehoaddan, Jehoahaz, Jehoash, Jehu, Joash, Obededom, SeirPlaces Beth-horon, Beth-shemesh, Corner Gate, Edom, Ephraim Gate, Jerusalem, Lachish, Lebanon, Samaria, Seir, Valley of SaltTopics Amaziah, Amazi'ah, Attacked, Battle, Belonged, Belongeth, Belongs, Beth, Bethshemesh, Beth-shemesh, Beth-she'mesh, Face, Faced, Joash, Jo'ash, Judah, Judah's, ShemeshDictionary of Bible Themes 2 Chronicles 25:1-28Library Prudence and Faith'And Amaziah said to the man of God, But what shall we do for the hundred talents which I have given to the army of Israel? And the man of God answered, The Lord is able to give thee much more than this.'--2 CHRON. xxv. 9. The character of this Amaziah, one of the Kings of Judah, is summed up by the chronicler in a damning epigram: 'He did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, but not with a perfect heart.' He was one of your half-and-half people, or, as Hosea says, 'a cake not turned,' … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Amaziah The Blessedness of Giving The Unmerciful Servant. That the Employing Of, and Associating with the Malignant Party, According as is Contained in the Public Resolutions, is Sinful and Unlawful. Chronicles Links 2 Chronicles 25:21 NIV2 Chronicles 25:21 NLT 2 Chronicles 25:21 ESV 2 Chronicles 25:21 NASB 2 Chronicles 25:21 KJV 2 Chronicles 25:21 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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