2 Kings 11:17: “Jehoiada then made a covenant between the Lord and the king and people that they would be the Lord’s people. He also made a covenant between the king and the people.”
Extended Explanation
This verse describes a significant moment of renewal for the people of Judah after Joash was crowned king and Athaliah was removed from power. Jehoiada, the high priest, led the people in recommitting themselves to the Lord. This covenant reaffirmed their identity as God’s people, reestablishing the nation’s relationship with Him. In addition to this covenant with God, Jehoiada also facilitated a covenant between the king and the people, symbolizing the responsibility and mutual commitment between the ruler and the citizens.
This dual covenant was essential for restoring the kingdom after the years of spiritual decline under Athaliah’s reign. The people needed to turn back to God, and the king needed to commit to leading the nation in righteousness. This verse reflects the deep connection between the spiritual and political restoration of Judah.
Historical Context
At this point in Judah’s history, the kingdom had been under the corrupt rule of Athaliah, who promoted idol worship and led the nation away from God. After Joash, the rightful heir to the throne, was hidden in the temple and later revealed as king, the people rejoiced at the opportunity for a fresh start. Jehoiada’s leadership was instrumental in guiding the nation back to God.
The covenant Jehoiada led was not a new concept; covenants had always been central to Israel’s relationship with God, starting with Abraham and later with Moses. This act of renewing the covenant was crucial for reestablishing the people’s commitment to worshiping the one true God, rejecting the idolatry that had flourished under Athaliah.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse highlights the importance of covenant relationships in the Bible. God’s people are called to live in a covenant relationship with Him, where they acknowledge His lordship and follow His commandments. Jehoiada’s actions remind us that when the people of God stray, they must renew their commitment to Him.
The covenant also underscores the responsibility of leaders in guiding their people toward faithfulness. Joash, as the newly crowned king, was expected to lead with righteousness, following God’s laws. This verse shows that God’s covenant isn’t just a personal relationship but one that involves the entire community, including its leaders.
Literary Analysis
This verse serves as a pivotal moment in the narrative of 2 Kings 11. After the dramatic events of Joash’s coronation and Athaliah’s death, the focus shifts from political action to spiritual renewal. The mention of two covenants—one between God and the people, and the other between the king and the people—highlights the comprehensive nature of this restoration. Both spiritual and societal order are being reestablished.
The repetition of the word “covenant” emphasizes its significance. The covenant was the foundation of Israel’s relationship with God, and its renewal signified a new beginning after a period of corruption and idolatry.
Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 29:12-13 – Reflects the importance of the covenant, where God makes the Israelites His people and they pledge their loyalty to Him.
- 2 Chronicles 23:16 – A parallel account of this same event, underscoring the role of Jehoiada in leading the covenant renewal.
- Exodus 19:5-6 – God’s promise to make Israel His treasured possession if they obey His covenant, which echoes in the renewal made by Jehoiada.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder of the importance of renewal in their relationship with God. Just as Judah needed to recommit to God after falling into idolatry, believers must regularly examine their hearts and renew their commitment to follow Christ. The covenant that Jehoiada made between God and the people reflects the need for Christians to remember their identity as God’s people and to live in obedience to His Word.
It also highlights the importance of godly leadership. Leaders, whether in the church, community, or family, have a responsibility to guide others toward faithfulness. Joash’s covenant with the people is a picture of the mutual responsibility between leaders and those they serve. For Christians, this can serve as a call to support and encourage their leaders, while also holding them accountable to God’s standards.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reveals God’s love for His people in His willingness to restore them after they had strayed. Despite the years of idolatry and corruption under Athaliah, God did not abandon Judah. Through Jehoiada’s leadership, God provided a way for the people to renew their covenant relationship with Him. His love is seen in His patience and His desire to bring His people back into fellowship with Him.
God’s love is also reflected in the establishment of a covenant between the king and the people. By ensuring that Joash was committed to leading the nation in righteousness, God was providing the people with a leader who would guide them according to His will, showing His care for both their spiritual and practical needs.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of God’s covenant with His people. While Jehoiada’s covenant with Judah was a renewal of their relationship with God, Jesus established the new covenant through His death and resurrection. This new covenant offers forgiveness of sins and eternal life, and it fulfills the promises made throughout the Old Testament.
In the same way that Jehoiada led the people in recommitting to God, Jesus calls His followers to live in covenant relationship with Him, following His teachings and being transformed by His grace. The mutual responsibility between the king and the people in this verse points forward to Jesus, the King who leads His people with love, justice, and mercy.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the renewal of the covenant in this verse inspire you to examine your own relationship with God? Are there areas where you need to recommit to Him?
- In what ways can you encourage the leaders in your life to follow God’s ways, just as Jehoiada led Joash and the people?
- How does the concept of covenant shape your understanding of your relationship with God? How does it influence your daily life?
- How does this verse point you toward the new covenant established by Jesus, and how does that shape your faith and hope for the future?