Godless After All

The setting in chapter twelve is in the southern kingdom. The historical narrative picks up with Jehoash as their king. Sadly he began well in carrying out the Lord's instructions but he ended in disgrace. In his early life, he had been under the godly influence of Jehoiada the priest and his wife who had rescued him from being murdered.

The high point and significant act of godliness during his reign was his repair of the Temple.

His spiritual decline and the true nature of his heart were revealed when Jehoiada died and his godly influence with him. Soon after Jehoash abandoned the house of the Lord, the false worship of the Asherim was promoted and practiced bringing on judgment from God. Sin quickly hardened Jehoash's heart to the extent he ignored the warning of judgment and murdered its messenger - the son of the godly man who had, had such an influence on his early life! He is testimony, even for us, that conforming to godliness is not proof of genuine conversion.

Chapter thirteen shifts back to the northern kingdom with Jehoahaz on the throne doing 'evil in the sight of the Lord.' God proved faithful in keeping His covenantal promises to Israel as there were godless men praying to God and being 'heard' as their petitions were in harmony with God's sovereign plans. God answered their request for a deliverer with the king of Aram (Syria) which will ave consequences down the road.

This chapter is also significant as it records the death of Elisha, the prophet.

Some conclusions:

1. Good beginnings do not guarantee good endings.
2. Zeal for religious activity does not prove godly character.
3. Temptations and trials reveal character.