Who Was Joash in the Bible?

The name Joash appears several times in the Old Testament, referring to different individuals who played various roles in Israel’s history. Each Joash contributed uniquely to the biblical narrative, providing valuable lessons for modern Christians. This article explores the lives and significance of these individuals.

Joash: Father of Gideon

Judges 6:11

Joash, the father of Gideon, is first mentioned in Judges 6:11: “The angel of the LORD came and sat down under the oak in Ophrah that belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, where his son Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to keep it from the Midianites” (NIV). Living before Israel’s monarchy, Joash’s faithfulness set the stage for Gideon’s rise as a judge of Israel. Gideon famously defeated the Midianites with only 300 men, a testament to God’s power working through human weakness.

Joash: Kings of Israel

1 Kings 22:26; 2 Kings 13-14

There were two kings named Joash who reigned during the Divided Monarchy. Joash, the son of Ahab, is mentioned in 1 Kings 22:26, although little is recorded about him. Another Joash, the father of Jeroboam, is mentioned in 2 Kings 13 and 14. This Joash reigned over Israel and had significant interactions with the prophet Elisha, including receiving a prophetic word about defeating the Arameans (2 Kings 13:14-19).

Joash: King of Judah

2 Kings 11:2-12:21; 2 Chronicles 22:11-24:27

Joash, also known as Jehoash, was a king of Judah. He was the son of Ahaziah and Zibiah and became king after being hidden from Athaliah’s murderous rampage (2 Kings 11:2). Under the guidance of the high priest Jehoiada, Joash restored the temple and reinstated proper worship (2 Kings 12:2). However, after Jehoiada’s death, Joash turned to idolatry, leading to his downfall and assassination (2 Chronicles 24:17-22).

Joash: A Judahite

1 Chronicles 4:22

Joash is listed among the descendants of Judah in 1 Chronicles 4:22. He was the son of Shelah and the brother of Er, Laadah, Jokim, and Saraph. This mention highlights the importance of genealogies in preserving the lineage and heritage of the tribes of Israel.

Joash: A Benjaminite

1 Chronicles 7:8

Another Joash is listed among the descendants of Benjamin in 1 Chronicles 7:8. He is identified as the son of Becher and the brother of Zemirah, Eliezer, Elioenai, Omri, Jeremoth, Abijah, Anathoth, and Alemeth. This Joash’s inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the detailed preservation of family lines in Israelite history.

Joash: A Warrior

1 Chronicles 12:3

Joash is mentioned as one of the warriors who joined David at Ziklag while he was fleeing from Saul: “Ahiezer their leader and Joash, the sons of Shemaah the Gibeathite” (1 Chronicles 12:3). This act of joining David highlights Joash’s courage and loyalty during a time of great uncertainty.

Joash: An Overseer

1 Chronicles 27:28

In 1 Chronicles 27:28, Joash is appointed to oversee King David’s olive and sycamore trees and the stores of olive oil. This role indicates his responsibility and trustworthiness in managing significant resources of the kingdom.

Lessons for the Modern Christian

Faithfulness and Leadership

The different Joashes exemplify the importance of faithfulness and leadership. Whether as a father guiding his son, a king restoring worship, or a warrior showing loyalty, each Joash displayed qualities that are essential for Christians today. Faithfulness in small tasks, like overseeing olive trees, can lead to greater responsibilities and influence.

The Danger of Turning Away from God

Joash, the king of Judah, serves as a warning about the dangers of turning away from God. Despite starting well under Jehoiada’s guidance, his later idolatry led to his downfall. This teaches Christians the importance of remaining steadfast in their faith throughout their lives.

The Role of Guidance and Mentorship

Joash’s reign under Jehoiada’s mentorship shows the value of godly guidance. Modern Christians are encouraged to seek and provide mentorship within their communities, fostering spiritual growth and accountability.

Connection to a Loving God

God’s Faithfulness Across Generations

The repeated appearance of the name Joash in various roles and generations highlights God’s faithfulness in preserving His people. Each Joash played a part in the larger narrative of God’s redemptive plan, demonstrating that God uses individuals across generations to fulfill His purposes.

God’s Grace and Restoration

Joash, the king of Judah, experienced God’s grace in being hidden and protected during his early years. His restoration of the temple signifies God’s desire to bring His people back to true worship. This reflects God’s loving nature and His ongoing work of restoration in the lives of believers.

Connection to Jesus Christ

Foreshadowing Christ’s Kingship

Joash’s efforts to restore the temple and proper worship in Judah foreshadow Christ’s ultimate work of restoration. Jesus, the greater King, restores the broken relationship between God and humanity, making true worship possible.

Jesus as the Perfect Leader

While Joash, the king of Judah, faltered later in life, Jesus remains the perfect leader and shepherd. His life and ministry provide the ultimate example of faithfulness, obedience, and sacrifice, calling Christians to follow Him wholeheartedly.

Conclusion

The name Joash appears multiple times in the Old Testament, referring to individuals who served in various capacities—father of Gideon, kings of Israel, a king of Judah, a Judahite, a Benjaminite, a warrior, and an overseer. Each Joash’s story provides valuable lessons on faithfulness, leadership, the danger of turning away from God, and the importance of mentorship. Their lives reflect God’s faithfulness across generations and His ongoing work of restoration. Ultimately, the stories of Joash point to the perfect kingship and leadership of Jesus Christ, who restores and redeems humanity. Understanding the roles and significance of Joash in biblical history enriches our appreciation of God’s redemptive plan and His commitment to His people.