2 Chronicles 23: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Chronicles 23 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

In 2 Chronicles 23, the plot to overthrow Queen Athaliah is set into motion by Jehoiada, the high priest. Athaliah, who had usurped the throne after the death of her son Ahaziah, had been ruling with fear and tyranny. Jehoiada takes a courageous stand to protect Joash, the rightful heir from the line of David, and gathers the Levites and other leaders to form a conspiracy against the queen.

Key verse

“Then they brought out the king’s son, and put the crown on him, and gave him the testimony, and made him king. Jehoiada and his sons anointed him, and they said, “Long live the king!”
2 Chronicles 23:11 (WEB)

Outline

2 Chronicles 23:1–2 Jehoiada's Coalition Forms
2 Chronicles 23:3–8 Covenant and Preparation
2 Chronicles 23:9–11 Arming the Levites
2 Chronicles 23:12–15 Athaliah's Reaction and Capture
2 Chronicles 23:16–18 Covenant and Worship Restored
2 Chronicles 23:19–20 Reinforcing Temple Order
2 Chronicles 23:21 Joyful Coronation

Discussion questions

In v11, what is placed on Joash when he is made king?
What does Athaliah exclaim in v13 when she hears the rejoicing?
Jehoiada's command in v14 to not kill Athaliah in 'Yahweh’s house': what does this imply about sacred space?
In v18, why does Jehoiada emphasize offering burnt offerings 'with rejoicing and with singing'?
When have you seen a community come together to restore a sense of order and purpose?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Chronicles 23: 2 Kings 11, 1 Kings 1, 2 Chronicles 29.

Before next time: read 2 Chronicles 24.