2 Chronicles 28:1

Ahaz was twenty years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem sixteen years. And unlike David his father, he did not do what was right in the eyes of the LORD.

Study Bible

Ahaz
The name Ahaz means "he has grasped" or "he has held" in Hebrew. Ahaz was a king of Judah, and his reign is marked by significant deviation from the religious practices established by his forefathers. His name itself can be seen as indicative of his character, as he grasped onto foreign alliances and idolatrous practices rather than holding fast to the covenant with God.

was twenty years old
This phrase sets the stage for understanding the youth and inexperience of Ahaz when he ascended to the throne. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a young king might be more susceptible to external influences and pressures, which could explain some of Ahaz's decisions that led Judah away from God.

when he became king
The transition to kingship is a significant moment in the life of any ruler. For Ahaz, this was a time when he had the opportunity to lead his people in righteousness. However, the historical context shows that he chose a path contrary to the ways of his ancestor David, leading to spiritual and political turmoil.

and he reigned in Jerusalem
Jerusalem, the city of David, was the political and spiritual center of Judah. Ahaz's reign in this city is significant because it highlights the contrast between his leadership and the legacy of David, who established Jerusalem as a city dedicated to the worship of Yahweh.

sixteen years
The duration of Ahaz's reign is relatively short compared to other kings of Judah. This period was marked by significant challenges, including threats from neighboring nations and internal strife. The brevity of his reign can be seen as a reflection of the instability and unfaithfulness that characterized his leadership.

And unlike David his father
This phrase draws a direct comparison between Ahaz and King David, who is often regarded as the ideal king of Israel. David's heart was aligned with God, and he sought to lead his people according to divine principles. Ahaz, however, did not follow in these footsteps, choosing instead to pursue idolatry and alliances with pagan nations.

he did not do what was right
The Hebrew word for "right" (יָשָׁר, yashar) implies a sense of straightness or uprightness. Ahaz's failure to do what was right indicates a moral and spiritual deviation from the path that God had set for the kings of Judah. His actions were not aligned with the covenantal expectations that God had for His people.

in the eyes of the LORD
This phrase emphasizes that the ultimate standard for righteousness is God's perspective. While Ahaz may have sought approval from other nations or his own people, he failed to meet the divine standard. The "eyes of the LORD" serve as a reminder that God sees and judges the actions of leaders and nations according to His holy and perfect will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ahaz
The king of Judah who began his reign at the age of twenty. His reign is marked by unfaithfulness to God, contrasting with the legacy of his ancestor David.

2. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, where Ahaz reigned. It holds significant religious and political importance as the center of Jewish worship and governance.

3. David
The revered king of Israel, known for his heart after God. Ahaz is compared to David, highlighting his failure to follow in David's righteous footsteps.

4. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, whose standards and commandments Ahaz failed to uphold during his reign.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Leadership
Ahaz's reign serves as a cautionary tale about the impact of ungodly leadership. Leaders are called to uphold God's standards and lead their people in righteousness.

The Consequences of Unfaithfulness
Ahaz's failure to do what was right in the eyes of the LORD led to negative consequences for himself and his nation. Faithfulness to God is crucial for personal and communal well-being.

The Legacy of David
David is often used as a benchmark for righteous leadership. Believers are encouraged to emulate David's heart for God, seeking to align their actions with His will.

The Role of Age in Leadership
Ahaz became king at a young age, reminding us that spiritual maturity and wisdom are not necessarily tied to age. Young leaders should seek guidance and wisdom from God and godly mentors.

The Need for Repentance
Despite Ahaz's failures, the opportunity for repentance and restoration is always available. Believers are encouraged to turn back to God when they stray from His path.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ahaz's reign contrast with that of his ancestor David, and what can we learn from this comparison about the importance of following God's ways?

2. In what ways can the account of Ahaz serve as a warning for leaders today, both in the church and in secular contexts?

3. How does the account of Ahaz in 2 Chronicles 28:1 relate to the expectations for kings outlined in Deuteronomy 17:14-20, and what does this teach us about the importance of obedience to God's law?

4. What role does age play in leadership according to the Bible, and how can young leaders ensure they are leading in a way that honors God?

5. Reflecting on Ahaz's life, what steps can we take to ensure that we remain faithful to God, even when faced with challenges and temptations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 16
Provides a parallel account of Ahaz's reign, offering additional details about his actions and the consequences of his unfaithfulness.

Isaiah 7
Describes the prophet Isaiah's interactions with Ahaz, including the prophecy of Immanuel, highlighting Ahaz's lack of faith in God's promises.

Deuteronomy 17:14-20
Outlines the expectations for Israel's kings, which Ahaz failed to meet, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's law.