2 Kings 11:17

“And Jehoiada made a covenant between the LORD and the king and the people, that they should be the LORD’s people; between the king also and the people.”

Certainly! Here’s a Bible study on 2 Kings 11:17 in the King James Version:

• Historical Context:

2 Kings 11:17 is part of the account of Athaliah’s overthrow and the coronation of Joash as the king of Judah. Athaliah, the mother of Ahaziah, had seized power and killed all the royal offspring, except Joash, who was hidden by Jehosheba, the daughter of King Jehoram. When Joash turned seven years old, Jehoiada the priest initiated a plan to restore him to the throne and remove Athaliah from power. The verse focuses on the covenant made between God, the king, and the people after Joash’s coronation.

• Jehoiada’s Role:

Jehoiada, the high priest, played a vital role in executing God’s plan to restore Joash to the throne and bring about a spiritual reformation in Judah. He was a righteous and faithful priest who stood for the Lord’s commands. His actions demonstrate his loyalty to God and the rightful king, ensuring the continuity of the Davidic lineage.

• The Covenant:

Jehoiada made a covenant, a solemn agreement, between the Lord, the king, and the people. This covenant had two aspects:

• a. Between the Lord and the people:By entering into this covenant, the people of Judah affirmed their commitment to be the Lord’s people, acknowledging Him as their God. They pledged to follow His commandments and worship Him alone.
• b. Between the king and the people:The covenant also established the relationship between the king (Joash) and the people. It bound the king to rule in accordance with God’s laws and to govern with justice and righteousness. The people, in turn, promised their loyalty and obedience to the king.

• Significance and Application:

• – Loyalty to God:The covenant reminds us of the importance of being faithful to God. Just as the people of Judah pledged to be the Lord’s people, we, as Christians, are called to commit ourselves to God, recognising Him as our Lord and Saviour.
• – Obedience to God’s Word:The covenant emphasises the need for kings and leaders to govern according to God’s commands. It highlights the significance of leaders following God’s wisdom and leading their people with righteousness.
• – God’s Faithfulness:The restoration of the Davidic monarchy and the establishment of the covenant illustrate God’s faithfulness to His promises. Despite Athaliah’s attempts to destroy the royal lineage, God preserved Joash, ensuring the continuation of the Messianic line leading to Jesus Christ.