Matthew Henry’s Modern English Commentary2 Chronicles 24

The Temple RepairedThis section describes the good beginnings of King Joash’s reign. He was guided by Jehoiada the priest, who helped him do what was right in the eyes of the Lord

v. 4-6: Joash wanted to repair the temple, which had been neglected. He noticed that the money for repairs was not coming in as expected, so he spoke to Jehoiada about it and looked for a better way to collect the funds (2 Chronicles 24:6 ). Sometimes, those who are not truly devoted to God can still be very active in religious projects.

v. 7-10: Joash came up with a new idea to collect money for the temple. He had a chest made with a hole in the lid, so people could throw in their offerings. This new method worked well, and people gave cheerfully. The people rejoiced as they gave, and the money collected was enough for the repairs (2 Chronicles 24:10 ).

v. 11-13: The money was handled honestly. The king and Jehoiada made sure it was paid to the workers, who did their jobs faithfully. The repairs were completed, and the temple was restored to good condition (2 Chronicles 24:12-13 ). This shows how important it is to be trustworthy and careful with public responsibilities.

Joash Slain by His ServantsThis passage tells the sad story of Joash’s downfall. Though he started his reign with good guidance from Jehoiada the priest, Joash abandoned God after Jehoiada’s death. His unfaithfulness led to idolatry, the murder of a prophet, and severe judgments from God. Joash’s life serves as a warning about the dangers of relying on others for faith, the corrupting influence of bad counsel, and the consequences of turning away from God.v. 15-16: Jehoiada, the priest who had guided Joash, lived a long life of 130 years. When he died, he was buried with honor among the kings because he had done great good for Judah, especially in restoring the temple and leading the people back to God (2 Chronicles 24:15-16 ). Jehoiada’s death marked a turning point, as Joash relied on him but lacked a strong personal faith.

v. 17: After Jehoiada’s death, the leaders of Judah flattered Joash and gave him bad advice. They convinced him that he was free from Jehoiada’s discipline and encouraged him to abandon the true worship of God . This shows how easily people can fall into sin when they seek the approval of ungodly counselors.

v. 18: Joash and the leaders of Judah turned away from God. They abandoned the temple and began worshipping idols and setting up groves. The same people who had once repaired the temple now forsook it. This shows how easily people can be led astray when their faith is shallow .

v. 19: God sent prophets to warn Joash and the leaders, urging them to return to Him. These prophets testified against their sins and reminded them of God’s law. However, the people refused to listen, showing how hardened their hearts had become .

v. 20: Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, was filled with the Spirit of God and spoke boldly to the people. He warned them that forsaking God would lead to disaster, saying, Because you have forsaken the Lord

v. 21: Instead of repenting, the people, led by the king, conspired to kill Zechariah. They stoned him to death in the temple court, a holy place meant for worship. This act of murder against a prophet was a terrible sin, showing their complete rejection of God .

v. 22: Zechariah’s death was especially tragic because he was the son of Jehoiada, the man who had saved Joash and helped him become king. Joash showed no gratitude for Jehoiada’s kindness. As Zechariah died, he called out, The Lord

v. 23-24: God brought judgment on Judah through the Syrians. Although the Syrian army was small, they defeated the much larger army of Judah because God had forsaken His people due to their sins. The Syrians plundered Jerusalem and killed many of its leaders, including those who had led Joash into idolatry (2 Chronicles 24:23-24; Deuteronomy 32:30 ).

v. 25: Joash was severely wounded in battle and later killed by his own servants while lying in his bed. This was God’s judgment for his role in the death of Zechariah and others. Unlike Jehoiada, Joash was not buried in the tombs of the kings because he had dishonored himself and his reign (2 Chronicles 24:25; Psalm 69:28 ).

v. 26-27: The men who conspired against Joash were named, and their foreign heritage is noted. This likely reflects the influence of idolatry and disobedience to God’s laws about marriage. Joash’s story ended with disgrace, and his failures serve as a warning to remain faithful to God and to remember the consequences of turning away from Him (2 Chronicles 24:26-27; Revelation 6:10 ).