2 Kings 12:20

And the servants of Joash rose up and formed a conspiracy and killed him at Beth-millo, on the road down to Silla.

Study Bible

And the servants of Joash rose up
This phrase indicates a rebellion from within Joash's own ranks, highlighting the internal strife and betrayal that can occur even among trusted individuals. Joash, also known as Jehoash, was the king of Judah who initially followed the ways of the Lord under the guidance of Jehoiada the priest. However, after Jehoiada's death, Joash's reign was marked by a departure from faithfulness, leading to dissatisfaction among his servants. This internal uprising reflects the broader biblical theme of the consequences of turning away from God.

and formed a conspiracy
The act of forming a conspiracy suggests a premeditated plan to overthrow Joash. In the biblical context, conspiracies often arise when leaders fail to uphold justice and righteousness. This mirrors other biblical accounts, such as the conspiracy against King David by his son Absalom. The formation of a conspiracy against Joash can be seen as divine retribution for his apostasy and the murder of Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, as recorded in 2 Chronicles 24:20-22.

and killed him at Beth-millo
Beth-millo is a location associated with fortifications or a citadel, possibly part of the defenses of Jerusalem. The assassination of Joash at this site underscores the vulnerability of even fortified places when God's protection is withdrawn. The killing of Joash at Beth-millo fulfills the prophecy of judgment against him for his unfaithfulness and the shedding of innocent blood. This event serves as a reminder of the biblical principle that God holds leaders accountable for their actions.

on the road down to Silla
The mention of the road down to Silla provides a geographical context, indicating a specific location where the assassination took place. Silla's exact location is uncertain, but it is thought to be near Jerusalem. The road signifies a transition or movement, possibly symbolizing Joash's fall from power and grace. This detail emphasizes the historical reality of the event and situates it within the physical landscape of ancient Judah. The road can also be seen as a metaphor for Joash's spiritual decline, leading to his ultimate downfall.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joash (Jehoash)
King of Judah who initially did what was right in the eyes of the Lord under the guidance of Jehoiada the priest but later turned away from God.

2. Beth-millo
A location in Jerusalem, possibly a fortress or a significant structure, where Joash was assassinated.

3. Silla
A place mentioned in the context of Joash's assassination, indicating the route or area where the event occurred.

4. Conspiracy
The act of plotting against Joash by his own servants, leading to his assassination.

5. Servants
The individuals who conspired against and ultimately killed Joash, highlighting betrayal from within his own ranks.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Apostasy
Joash's life serves as a warning about the dangers of turning away from God after starting well. It is crucial to remain steadfast in faith throughout one's life.

The Influence of Godly Mentorship
Joash's early success was largely due to the influence of Jehoiada. This highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with godly mentors and advisors.

The Consequences of Betrayal
The conspiracy against Joash illustrates the destructive power of betrayal and the importance of integrity and loyalty in leadership.

The Importance of Finishing Well
Joash's failure to finish his reign faithfully reminds us of the importance of perseverance in our spiritual journey.

Trust in God, Not in Man
Joash's account underscores the need to place our ultimate trust in God rather than in human leaders, who can fail and fall.

Bible Study Questions

1. What lessons can we learn from Joash's initial faithfulness and later apostasy, and how can we apply these lessons to our own spiritual journey?

2. How does the role of Jehoiada in Joash's life illustrate the importance of godly mentorship, and who are the mentors in your life that help you stay faithful?

3. In what ways can betrayal from those close to us impact our lives, and how can we guard against such situations?

4. How does Joash's account encourage us to finish well in our faith, and what steps can we take to ensure we remain faithful to God throughout our lives?

5. Reflecting on Joash's reliance on human advisors, how can we ensure that our ultimate trust remains in God rather than in people? What other scriptures support this principle?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 24
Provides a parallel account of Joash's reign, including his initial faithfulness and subsequent apostasy, offering a fuller picture of his life and reign.

2 Kings 11
Details the rise of Joash to the throne, including the role of Jehoiada the priest, which sets the stage for understanding his initial faithfulness.

Proverbs 29:2
Discusses the impact of righteous and wicked rulers on a nation, relevant to understanding the consequences of Joash's actions.

Psalm 146:3
Warns against putting trust in human leaders, which can be related to Joash's failure to remain faithful to God.