Joash, also known as Jehoash, was a king of Judah whose reign is marked by a significant spiritual decline, illustrating the concept of backsliding. His account is primarily recorded in 2 Kings 11-12 and 2 Chronicles 22-24. Joash's life serves as a cautionary tale of how initial faithfulness can be undermined by external influences and personal choices.

Early Life and Ascension to the Throne

Joash was the son of Ahaziah, king of Judah, and his life was preserved through the courageous actions of Jehosheba, the sister of Ahaziah. When Athaliah, Joash's grandmother, sought to destroy the royal line, Jehosheba hid Joash in the temple for six years (2 Kings 11:2-3). Under the guidance of Jehoiada the priest, Joash was anointed king at the age of seven (2 Kings 11:12).

Reforms and Faithfulness Under Jehoiada

During the early years of his reign, Joash demonstrated a commitment to the worship of Yahweh, largely due to the influence of Jehoiada. He initiated repairs to the temple, which had fallen into disrepair during Athaliah's reign (2 Kings 12:4-5). The Scriptures note, "Joash did what was right in the eyes of the LORD all the days of Jehoiada the priest" (2 Chronicles 24:2). This period of his reign was marked by religious reform and a return to the proper worship of God.

The Turning Point: Jehoiada's Death

The death of Jehoiada marked a turning point in Joash's spiritual journey. Without the priest's guidance, Joash's faithfulness waned. The Bible records that after Jehoiada's death, the officials of Judah came and paid homage to the king, and he listened to them (2 Chronicles 24:17). This led to a departure from the worship of Yahweh, as Joash and the people of Judah began to serve idols and Asherah poles (2 Chronicles 24:18).

Consequences of Backsliding

Joash's backsliding had severe consequences. The Lord sent prophets to bring the king and the people back to Him, but they would not listen (2 Chronicles 24:19). Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, was filled with the Spirit of God and confronted Joash, saying, "Why do you transgress the commandments of the LORD so that you cannot prosper? Because you have forsaken the LORD, He has forsaken you" (2 Chronicles 24:20). In a tragic turn of events, Joash ordered the stoning of Zechariah in the temple courts, an act of profound ingratitude and rebellion (2 Chronicles 24:21).

Downfall and Death

Joash's reign ended in turmoil. The Arameans invaded Judah, and Joash was severely wounded. His own officials conspired against him and assassinated him on his bed, avenging the blood of Zechariah (2 Chronicles 24:23-25). Joash was buried in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings, reflecting the dishonor of his later years (2 Chronicles 24:25).

Joash's life is a sobering reminder of the dangers of backsliding. His initial zeal and commitment to God were overshadowed by his later apostasy, demonstrating the importance of steadfastness in faith and the peril of forsaking divine guidance.2 Chronicles 24:24
For the army of the Syrians came with a small company of men, and the LORD delivered a very great host into their hand, because they had forsaken the LORD God of their fathers. So they executed judgment against Joash.
Nave's Topical Index

What does it mean to backslide? | GotQuestions.org

Is a backsliding Christian still saved? | GotQuestions.org

Questions about the Christian Life (All) | GotQuestions.org

Backslider: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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