Topical Bible: Preaching: Impenitence Under of Asa

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Topical Encyclopedia

Asa, the third king of the Kingdom of Judah, reigned for 41 years, from approximately 911 to 870 BC. His reign is noted for religious reforms and efforts to rid Judah of idolatry, as recorded in the biblical books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles. Asa's commitment to the worship of Yahweh is highlighted in the early years of his reign, where he is described as doing "what was right in the eyes of the LORD" (1 Kings 15:11).

Religious Reforms and Initial Zeal

Asa's initial zeal for the LORD is evident in his actions to remove foreign altars and high places, break down sacred pillars, and cut down Asherah poles (2 Chronicles 14:3). He commanded Judah to seek the LORD, the God of their fathers, and to observe the law and the commandment (2 Chronicles 14:4). Asa's reforms extended to removing his grandmother Maacah from her position as queen mother because she had made an abominable image for Asherah (1 Kings 15:13).

The Covenant Renewal

In the fifteenth year of Asa's reign, a significant religious revival took place. Encouraged by the prophet Azariah, Asa led the people in a covenant renewal ceremony, where they entered into a covenant to seek the LORD with all their heart and soul (2 Chronicles 15:12). This covenant was marked by sacrifices and a public oath, and the people rejoiced at the renewal of their commitment to God (2 Chronicles 15:14-15).

Impenitence and Reliance on Human Alliances

Despite Asa's early devotion, his later years were marked by a shift in reliance from divine to human alliances. In the thirty-sixth year of his reign, Asa faced a threat from Baasha, king of Israel. Instead of seeking the LORD, Asa sought an alliance with Ben-Hadad, king of Aram, by sending him treasures from the house of the LORD and the king's house (2 Chronicles 16:2-3). This act of reliance on human strength rather than divine intervention was rebuked by the prophet Hanani, who reminded Asa of the LORD's past deliverance and criticized his lack of faith (2 Chronicles 16:7-9).

Asa's Response to Rebuke

Asa's response to Hanani's rebuke was one of impenitence. Instead of repenting, Asa became angry with the seer and imprisoned him. Additionally, Asa oppressed some of the people at the same time (2 Chronicles 16:10). This reaction marked a departure from his earlier humility and reliance on God, showcasing a hardened heart in the face of divine correction.

Final Years and Legacy

In the thirty-ninth year of his reign, Asa was afflicted with a severe disease in his feet. Even in his illness, Asa did not seek the LORD but relied on physicians (2 Chronicles 16:12). This continued pattern of impenitence and self-reliance in his later years stands in contrast to his earlier faithfulness and reforms.

Asa's reign, while initially characterized by fervent devotion and reform, ultimately serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of impenitence and reliance on human strength over divine guidance. His life underscores the importance of consistent faithfulness and humility before God, as well as the need for repentance when confronted with sin.

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2 Chronicles 16:7-10
And at that time Hanani the seer came to Asa king of Judah, and said to him, Because you have relied on the king of Syria, and not relied on the LORD your God, therefore is the host of the king of Syria escaped out of your hand.
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