2 Chronicles 36:5

Jehoiakim was twenty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem eleven years. And he did evil in the sight of the LORD his God.

Study Bible

Jehoiakim was twenty-five years old when he became king
Jehoiakim, originally named Eliakim, was the son of Josiah, a king known for his reforms and dedication to God. At twenty-five, Jehoiakim ascended to the throne during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, marked by the decline of Assyrian power and the rise of Babylon. His age suggests a level of maturity, yet his reign would be characterized by political instability and spiritual decline.

and he reigned in Jerusalem eleven years
Jehoiakim's reign from 609 to 598 BC was marked by shifting allegiances between Egypt and Babylon. Jerusalem, the capital city, was the spiritual and political center of Judah. His eleven-year reign was a time of significant prophetic activity, with prophets like Jeremiah warning of impending judgment due to the nation's unfaithfulness.

And he did evil in the sight of the LORD his God
Jehoiakim's actions were contrary to the covenantal expectations set by God for the kings of Judah. His reign was marked by idolatry, oppression, and disregard for prophetic warnings. This phrase echoes the Deuteronomic history's evaluation of kings, where doing "evil in the sight of the LORD" often led to divine judgment. His reign is a stark contrast to his father Josiah's, who was commended for doing what was right in the eyes of the LORD. Jehoiakim's actions contributed to the eventual Babylonian exile, fulfilling prophecies of judgment against Judah.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoiakim
The son of Josiah, Jehoiakim became king of Judah at the age of twenty-five. His reign lasted eleven years, during which he did what was evil in the sight of the LORD.

2. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, where Jehoiakim reigned. It was a significant religious and political center for the Israelites.

3. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who is the ultimate judge of the actions of kings and nations.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was under the rule of Jehoiakim during this period.

5. Evil in the sight of the LORD
This phrase indicates actions and behaviors that were contrary to God's commandments and expectations for His people.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Leadership
Jehoiakim's reign serves as a reminder of the impact that leadership can have on a nation. Leaders are called to uphold God's standards and lead with integrity.

Consequences of Disobedience
Jehoiakim's evil actions led to negative consequences for Judah, illustrating the principle that disobedience to God brings about judgment and hardship.

Personal Accountability
Each individual, like Jehoiakim, is accountable to God for their actions. We must strive to live in a way that is pleasing to the LORD.

The Role of Prophets and Scripture
Prophets like Jeremiah were sent to call out the sins of leaders and the people. We should heed the warnings and teachings of Scripture in our own lives.

The Need for Repentance
Despite Jehoiakim's failure, there is always an opportunity for repentance and turning back to God. We should be quick to repent when we stray from His ways.

Bible Study Questions

1. What characteristics of Jehoiakim's reign made it "evil in the sight of the LORD," and how can we avoid similar pitfalls in our own leadership roles?

2. How does the account of Jehoiakim's reign in 2 Chronicles 36:5 compare with the expectations for kings outlined in Deuteronomy 17:18-20?

3. In what ways can we apply the lessons from Jehoiakim's life to our personal walk with God, especially in terms of accountability and obedience?

4. How do the prophetic warnings given to Jehoiakim through Jeremiah apply to us today, and what can we learn from them about responding to God's correction?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced consequences for disobedience. How did that experience shape your understanding of God's justice and mercy?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 23:36-24:7
Provides a parallel account of Jehoiakim's reign, highlighting his oppressive policies and the consequences of his actions.

Jeremiah 22:13-19
Offers a prophetic critique of Jehoiakim's reign, emphasizing his injustice and lack of concern for the poor.

Deuteronomy 17:18-20
Outlines the expectations for Israelite kings, which Jehoiakim failed to uphold, such as reading the law and fearing the LORD.

Proverbs 14:34
Speaks to the principle that righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people, reflecting the moral decline under Jehoiakim.