2 Chronicles 24:6

“And the king called for Jehoiada the chief, and said unto him, Why hast thou not required of the Levites to bring in out of Judah and out of Jerusalem the collection, according to the commandment of Moses the servant of the LORD, and of the congregation of Israel, for the tabernacle of witness?”

Context:2 Chronicles 24 tells the story of Joash, who became king of Judah at a young age and reigned for 40 years in Jerusalem. He started his reign under the guidance of Jehoiada the priest, who was instrumental in bringing about a period of spiritual revival and repairing the temple of the Lord. However, after Jehoiada’s death, Joash turned away from the Lord and allowed the people of Judah to worship idols.

Now let’s break down the verse:

“And the king called for Jehoiada the chief”:King Joash summoned Jehoiada, the chief priest, to speak with him. Joash recognised Jehoiada’s leadership and sought his counsel.

“Why hast thou not required of the Levites to bring in out of Judah and out of Jerusalem the collection”:Joash questioned Jehoiada about the Levites’ failure to collect the required offerings from the people of Judah and Jerusalem. These offerings were meant to support the maintenance and upkeep of the tabernacle or temple.

“According to the commandment of Moses the servant of the LORD, and of the congregation of Israel, for the tabernacle of witness”:Joash reminded Jehoiada that the collection of offerings was in accordance with the commandment of Moses, who served as the servant of the Lord. The people of Israel, as a congregation, were responsible for providing resources for the tabernacle, which was a place of worship and a symbol of God’s presence among them.

• Leadership and Accountability:The fact that Joash called for Jehoiada indicates that he recognised Jehoiada’s authority and leadership. Good leaders seek counsel and accountability from those who are wise and experienced in matters of faith.
• Importance of Financial Support for Worship:The collection of offerings from the people was crucial for the maintenance and functioning of the tabernacle or temple. This passage emphasises the responsibility of God’s people to provide the necessary resources for the worship and service of God.
• Faithfulness to God’s Commands:Joash pointed out that the collection of offerings was commanded by Moses and the congregation of Israel. This highlights the importance of obedience to God’s commands and the responsibility of both leaders and the congregation to uphold and follow them.
• Neglect of Spiritual Duties:Joash’s inquiry implies that there had been a neglect or oversight in collecting the required offerings. This suggests a decline in the spiritual fervour of the people, which was later amplified as Joash allowed idol worship and turned away from God.