2 Kings 11: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Kings 11 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Athaliah, the mother of Ahaziah, seized power by killing all royal offspring (vv. 1-2). Jehosheba, sister of Ahaziah, saved Joash and hid him in Yahweh’s house for six years (v.

Key verse

“Jehoiada the priest commanded the captains of hundreds who were set over the army, and said to them, “Bring her out between the ranks. Kill anyone who follows her with the sword.” For the priest said, “Don’t let her be slain in Yahweh’s house.”
2 Kings 11:15 (WEB)

Outline

2 Kings 11:1–2 Athaliah's ruthless power grab
2 Kings 11:3 Joash hidden in the temple
2 Kings 11:4–8 Jehoiada's plan for restoration
2 Kings 11:9–12 Joash crowned king
2 Kings 11:13–16 Athaliah's reaction and execution
2 Kings 11:17–19 Covenant renewal and worship restoration
2 Kings 11:20–21 Joash's reign begins

Discussion questions

In v2, who took Joash away to hide him from Athaliah?
What act does Jehoiada command in v15 to prevent Athaliah from being killed in the temple?
Athaliah's response in v14: what does her cry of 'Treason! Treason!' indicate about her understanding of the situation?
The covenant made in v17: how does it connect the king and the people to Yahweh?
When have you witnessed a brave act of protection similar to Jehosheba hiding Joash?

Go deeper

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

Before next time: read 2 Kings 12.