2 Chronicles 22: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Chronicles 22 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

2 Chronicles 22 details the aftermath of King Jehoram's death and the rise of his son Ahaziah as king of Judah. Ahaziah, influenced by his mother Athaliah, follows the wicked practices established by the house of Ahab, leading Judah further away from God. His reign is marked by a troubling alliance with Israel, particularly with King Joram of Israel. Ahaziah's tenure is short-lived as he is fatally wounded in battle against Jehu, who has been anointed king of Israel to execute judgment on the house of Ahab. The chapter concludes with Athaliah seizing control of the throne, showcasing her ruthless ambition and the tragic decline of godly leadership in Judah.

Key verse

“Now when Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she arose and destroyed all the royal offspring of the house of Judah.”
2 Chronicles 22:10 (WEB)

Outline

2 Chronicles 22:1–2 Ahaziah is made king
2 Chronicles 22:3–4 Influence of Athaliah
2 Chronicles 22:5–6 Alliance with Israel
2 Chronicles 22:7–8 Destruction of Ahaziah
2 Chronicles 22:9–10 Athaliah’s ruthless ambition
2 Chronicles 22:11–12 Joash is hidden

Discussion questions

In v2, how old was Ahaziah when he began to reign?
What evil actions does Ahaziah take in v4 that are mentioned?
Ahaziah's alliance with Joram in v5: what does this suggest about his leadership choices?
In v10, why does Athaliah destroy all the royal offspring of Judah?
When have you been influenced by someone close to you, as Ahaziah was by his mother?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Chronicles 22: 2 Chronicles 21, 2 Kings 9, Psalm 1.

Before next time: read 2 Chronicles 23.