2 Chronicles 24: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Chronicles 24 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

2 Chronicles 24 recounts the reign of King Joash of Judah, who began his rule while still a young boy after the assassination of his predecessor. Influenced by the high priest Jehoiada, Joash initiates significant religious reforms, including the restoration of the temple of the Lord, which had fallen into disrepair. The chapter details the collection of funds for temple repairs, with Joash urging the people to contribute willingly. As the temple is restored, the worship of Yahweh is reinstated, showcasing the importance of proper worship in the life of Israel.

Key verse

“They conspired against him, and stoned him with stones at the commandment of the king in the court of Yahweh’s house.”
2 Chronicles 24:21 (WEB)

Outline

2 Chronicles 24:1–2 Joash's Ascension to Kingship
2 Chronicles 24:3–7 Restoration Plans for the Temple
2 Chronicles 24:8–14 Collection for Temple Repairs
2 Chronicles 24:15–16 Death and Burial of Jehoiada
2 Chronicles 24:17–21 Joash's Fall into Idolatry
2 Chronicles 24:22–25 Consequences of Apostasy
2 Chronicles 24:26–27 Summary of Joash's Reign

Discussion questions

In v5, what do Joash and Jehoiada plan to do regarding Yahweh's house?
What happens in v20 when Zechariah speaks to the people?
Joash's decision to abandon Yahweh in v18: what influences lead him away from his earlier reforms?
In v22, why does Joash not remember the kindness of Jehoiada before ordering Zechariah's death?
When has someone influenced you to abandon a commitment, as Joash did after Jehoiada's death?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Chronicles 24: 2 Kings 12, 2 Chronicles 15, Luke 11.

Before next time: read 2 Chronicles 25.