2 Kings 11: Expository Sermon Preaching and Study Guide for Church Leaders

Overview

2 Kings 11 describes the dramatic preservation of David’s royal line through God’s providence. After King Ahaziah’s death, Athaliah, his mother, seizes power by attempting to destroy all heirs to the throne, including her own grandchildren. However, Jehosheba, the sister of Ahaziah, rescues the infant Joash (also called Jehoash) and hides him in the temple of the Lord for six years. During this time, Athaliah rules over Judah.

In the seventh year, Jehoiada, the high priest, orchestrates a coup to install Joash as the rightful king. He gathers support from military commanders, Levites, and the people. In a public ceremony, Joash is crowned king, given the covenant scroll, and anointed in the temple. Athaliah is executed, ending her tyrannical reign.

The chapter concludes with Judah’s renewed commitment to God under Joash’s reign. The people destroy the temple of Baal and its priest, reaffirming their allegiance to the Lord. Joash’s ascension ensures the continuation of David’s dynasty, fulfilling God’s covenant promise.

This chapter demonstrates God’s sovereignty in preserving His promises, even in the face of human evil, and highlights the importance of faithful leaders like Jehosheba and Jehoiada in carrying out God’s plans.

Historical and Literary Context

Historical Context

The Davidic Covenant:
God promised David that his descendants would reign over Israel forever (2 Samuel 7:12-16). Athaliah’s attempt to destroy David’s line threatened this covenant, but God’s faithfulness ensured its preservation through Joash.
Athaliah’s Reign:
Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, brought the influence of Baal worship from Israel into Judah. Her ruthless rise to power reflects the depth of her idolatry and rebellion against God.
The Role of Jehoiada:
As the high priest, Jehoiada was instrumental in preserving Joash and restoring proper worship in Judah. His leadership highlights the spiritual and political influence of the priesthood during this period.
Covenantal Renewal:
The public reestablishment of the covenant between God, the king, and the people marks a spiritual turning point for Judah, emphasizing the nation’s identity as God’s covenant people.

Literary Context

Preservation of the Davidic Line:
This chapter fits into the broader biblical narrative of God’s redemptive plan through David’s lineage, ultimately culminating in Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:1-16). Joash’s survival ensures the continuation of this line.
Contrast Between Leaders:
The narrative contrasts Athaliah’s destructive reign with the faithful actions of Jehosheba and Jehoiada, emphasizing the impact of godly versus ungodly leadership.
Symbolism of the Temple:
The temple serves as a place of refuge, anointing, and renewal in this chapter. It symbolizes God’s presence and His commitment to His covenant with Israel.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

1. God’s Sovereignty and Faithfulness

God’s protection of Joash illustrates His sovereign control over history and His faithfulness to His covenant with David. Despite human attempts to thwart His plan, God ensures its fulfillment.

Doctrinal Insight:
God’s promises are unchanging and reliable. His sovereignty guarantees that His purposes will be accomplished (Isaiah 46:9-10).

2. The Importance of Godly Leadership

The actions of Jehosheba and Jehoiada demonstrate the critical role of faithful leaders in carrying out God’s purposes. Their courage and wisdom ensure the preservation of David’s line and the restoration of true worship.

Doctrinal Insight:
God uses individuals who act in obedience to His will, often working through them to bring about His plans (Proverbs 16:9).

3. The Triumph of God’s Covenant

The renewal of the covenant and the destruction of Baal worship reflect Judah’s return to its foundational relationship with God. This moment reaffirms the nation’s identity as God’s chosen people.

Doctrinal Insight:
God’s covenantal relationship with His people is central to Scripture, pointing forward to the new covenant established through Christ (Jeremiah 31:31-34).

4. The Protection of the Messianic Line

Joash’s preservation is part of the broader biblical theme of God protecting the lineage through which the Messiah would come. This chapter reinforces God’s commitment to His redemptive plan.

Doctrinal Insight:
God’s plan of salvation through Jesus Christ was established before the foundation of the world and is unshakable (Ephesians 1:4-5).

Verse-by-Verse Analysis: 2 Kings 11

Verses 1–3: Athaliah Seizes Power and Joash is Rescued

“When Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she proceeded to destroy the whole royal family. But Jehosheba… took Joash son of Ahaziah and stole him away…” (vv. 1-2).

Athaliah’s ruthless attempt to wipe out David’s line shows her rebellion against God and her alignment with Baal worship, inherited from her parents, Ahab and Jezebel. Jehosheba, Ahaziah’s sister, courageously hides Joash in the temple, ensuring the survival of the Davidic covenant.

Cross-References:
2 Samuel 7:12-16: The Davidic covenant promises an eternal kingdom through David’s descendants.
Matthew 2:13: Parallels with the protection of baby Jesus from Herod’s murderous decree.
Doctrinal Insight:
God’s sovereignty is evident in protecting Joash, ensuring the fulfillment of His covenant promises. Human evil cannot thwart God’s redemptive plan.
Application:
Trust in God’s control, even when circumstances seem dire.
Be willing to act courageously for God’s purposes, as Jehosheba did.

Verses 4–8: Jehoiada’s Plan to Crown Joash

“In the seventh year Jehoiada sent for the commanders of units of a hundred, the Carites, and the guards and had them brought to him at the temple of the Lord…” (v. 4).

Jehoiada, the high priest, organizes a coalition of military leaders and Levites to install Joash as king. His meticulous planning underscores the importance of God-ordained leadership and the rejection of Athaliah’s usurped rule.

Cross-References:
Proverbs 21:1: God directs the hearts of rulers and leaders.
1 Timothy 2:1-2: Pray for those in authority to align with God’s will.
Doctrinal Insight:
Leadership under God’s direction brings stability and justice, contrasting with the chaos of human ambition.
Application:
Recognize the role of godly leaders in guiding communities and nations toward righteousness.
Support and pray for leaders committed to God’s purposes.

Verses 9–12: Joash is Crowned King

“Jehoiada brought out the king’s son and put the crown on him; he presented him with a copy of the covenant and proclaimed him king” (v. 12).

Joash’s crowning is a public declaration of God’s faithfulness to His covenant with David. The presentation of the covenant symbolizes the king’s responsibility to lead under God’s law.

Cross-References:
Deuteronomy 17:18-20: Kings of Israel were commanded to study and obey God’s law.
Psalm 89:34-37: God’s promise to sustain David’s line.
Doctrinal Insight:
God’s Word is the foundation of righteous leadership. True authority comes from submission to His law.
Application:
Ground your leadership, whether in family, work, or church, in the principles of God’s Word.
Celebrate God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, even in challenging times.

Verses 13–16: Athaliah is Executed

“Athaliah tore her robes and called out, ‘Treason! Treason!’ Jehoiada said to the commanders, ‘Bring her out between the ranks and put to the sword anyone who follows her’” (vv. 13-15).

Athaliah’s demise marks the end of her tyrannical rule and the restoration of God-ordained leadership. Her cry of “Treason” is ironic, given her initial usurpation of the throne.

Cross-References:
Proverbs 29:2: When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan.
Romans 12:19: God’s justice is perfect and timely.
Doctrinal Insight:
God’s justice prevails over human wickedness. Leaders who oppose God’s purposes ultimately face His judgment.
Application:
Trust in God’s timing to address injustice and evil.
Stand against ungodly influences in your life and community.

Verses 17–18: Covenant Renewal and the Destruction of Baal Worship

“Jehoiada then made a covenant between the Lord and the king and people that they would be the Lord’s people” (v. 17).

The renewal of the covenant signifies a spiritual reawakening in Judah. The people’s destruction of Baal’s temple and the killing of Baal’s priest reflect their commitment to returning to Yahweh as their true God.

Cross-References:
Joshua 24:14-15: Joshua calls Israel to renew their covenant with God and forsake idols.
1 Corinthians 10:14: Flee from idolatry and worship God alone.
Doctrinal Insight:
Covenant renewal is a vital aspect of maintaining a right relationship with God. Worship must be exclusive to Him, free from idolatry or compromise.
Application:
Evaluate your own life for areas where idols may have taken precedence over God.
Commit to worshiping God wholeheartedly, removing distractions and compromises.

Verse 19–21: Joash Begins His Reign

“All the people of the land rejoiced, and the city was calm, because Athaliah had been slain with the sword at the palace” (v. 20).

Joash’s reign brings peace and joy to Judah, demonstrating the blessings of righteous leadership. The chapter concludes with hope as God’s promises continue through the Davidic line.

Cross-References:
Isaiah 9:6-7: The promise of an eternal kingdom of peace through David’s line.
Revelation 21:4: God’s ultimate reign brings lasting peace and joy.
Doctrinal Insight:
God’s leadership brings order and peace, contrasting with the turmoil of human rebellion.
Application:
Rejoice in the peace that comes from submitting to God’s rule in your life.
Reflect on how you can promote peace and godliness in your family, church, and community.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

1. Jesus as the True King

Joash’s rescue and eventual enthronement point to Jesus Christ, the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to David of an eternal king. Joash’s crowning reflects God’s faithfulness to preserve David’s line, through which the Messiah would come.

Connection to Christ:
Luke 1:32-33: Jesus is the eternal King who fulfills the Davidic covenant.
Matthew 1:1-16: The genealogy of Jesus shows His lineage through David’s house.
Joash’s anointing as king prefigures Jesus’ coronation as the King of kings, whose reign is marked by righteousness and justice (Revelation 19:16).
Reflection:
Joash’s temporary and flawed reign contrasts with Jesus’ perfect and eternal kingship. Believers can rejoice that Jesus leads with absolute faithfulness and sovereignty.

2. Jesus as the Protector of His People

Jehosheba’s rescue of Joash from certain death reflects Jesus’ role as the ultimate Savior who delivers His people from sin and destruction.

Connection to Christ:
John 10:28: Jesus protects His sheep, ensuring their eternal security.
Hebrews 7:25: Jesus saves completely those who come to God through Him.
Reflection:
Joash’s survival points to God’s plan to safeguard His promises. In Christ, believers are not only rescued from sin but are given a secure future in His kingdom.

3. Jesus as the Purifier of Worship

Jehoiada’s reforms and the destruction of Baal worship prefigure Jesus’ work in purifying the temple and restoring true worship. Joash’s reign begins with a recommitment to God, symbolizing the transformation Jesus brings to His followers.

Connection to Christ:
John 4:23-24: Jesus teaches that true worship is in spirit and truth.
John 2:15-16: Jesus cleanses the temple of corruption, emphasizing holy worship.
Reflection:
Jehoiada and Joash’s reforms remind believers of Jesus’ work in purifying their hearts and enabling them to worship God rightly.

Connection to the Father

1. The Father’s Sovereignty

The events in 2 Kings 11 demonstrate the Father’s control over history. Athaliah’s attempt to destroy David’s line could not succeed because God’s sovereign plan to bring the Messiah through David’s descendants was unshakable.

Reflection:
The Father’s sovereignty assures believers that no human scheme can thwart His purposes (Isaiah 46:10). Trust in His control, even in the face of apparent chaos or opposition.

2. The Father’s Justice

Athaliah’s judgment reflects the Father’s holiness and His commitment to justice. Her downfall demonstrates that rebellion against God leads to inevitable consequences.

Reflection:
The Father’s justice is a call to live in reverence and obedience. Believers are reminded that sin has consequences, but God’s justice is always tempered by His mercy through Christ (Romans 6:23).

3. The Father’s Faithfulness

The preservation of Joash highlights the Father’s faithfulness to His covenant with David. His promises, whether of judgment or blessing, are always fulfilled.

Reflection:
Believers can rest in the Father’s faithfulness, knowing that His promises of salvation and restoration through Christ are secure (Numbers 23:19).

Connection to the Holy Spirit

1. The Spirit’s Role in Preserving God’s Plan

The rescue and protection of Joash reflect the Spirit’s work in orchestrating God’s redemptive purposes. The Spirit often works through human agents, like Jehosheba and Jehoiada, to accomplish His will.

Reflection:
The Holy Spirit continues to guide and empower believers to participate in God’s purposes, just as He worked through faithful individuals in this chapter (Acts 1:8).

2. The Spirit’s Role in Renewal

The covenant renewal and destruction of idols symbolize the Spirit’s transformative work in believers’ lives. Just as Judah returned to the Lord, the Spirit draws people back to God, convicting them of sin and leading them into holy living.

Reflection:
The Holy Spirit leads believers to repentance and empowers them to live in obedience, reflecting God’s holiness (John 16:8-11).

Connection to God’s Love

1. God’s Love in Preserving His Promises

God’s protection of Joash reveals His unwavering commitment to His covenant with David. This preservation is an act of love, ensuring the eventual arrival of the Messiah for the salvation of humanity.

Reflection:
God’s love is evident in His faithfulness to His promises. Believers can trust that His plans for redemption and restoration will never fail (Jeremiah 31:3).

2. God’s Love in Confronting Sin

The removal of Athaliah and the destruction of Baal worship highlight God’s love for His people by addressing sin and idolatry. His judgment is a means of restoring His people to Himself.

Reflection:
God’s love confronts sin not to condemn but to redeem. His discipline reflects His desire for His people’s holiness and joy in Him (Hebrews 12:6).

3. God’s Love in Providing Redemption

The events of this chapter are part of God’s larger redemptive story, culminating in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Joash’s survival ensures the continuation of David’s line, through which salvation would come.

Reflection:
God’s love is ultimately revealed in Jesus, who brings eternal life to all who trust in Him (John 3:16). This chapter reminds believers of God’s commitment to bring redemption and restoration to His people.

Sermon Outline and Flow

Title: “God’s Sovereignty and Faithfulness: Preserving the Line of Redemption”

Introduction

Opening Illustration:
Share a story of a seemingly impossible rescue, such as a child being saved from a dangerous situation by the quick actions of a loved one. Relate this to the dramatic rescue of Joash and how God ensured the survival of David’s line.
Main Idea:
2 Kings 11 reveals God’s sovereign power, His faithfulness to His promises, and His work through faithful individuals to bring about His plans. It challenges us to trust Him fully and live in obedience.
Purpose:
Encourage the congregation to trust God’s sovereignty, align their lives with His purposes, and reject idolatry in favor of wholehearted worship.

I. God’s Sovereignty Over History (Verses 1–3)

Key Verse: “Jehosheba… took Joash son of Ahaziah and stole him away… He remained hidden with his nurse at the temple of the Lord for six years while Athaliah ruled the land” (v. 2).
Main Point: God’s sovereignty ensures that His promises cannot be thwarted, even in the face of human rebellion. Jehosheba’s bold action demonstrates God’s providential care over Joash and the Davidic covenant.
Transition: If God is sovereign over Joash’s survival, how much more can we trust Him in our own lives?
Application:
Trust in God’s control, even when circumstances appear overwhelming.
Take bold steps of faith, like Jehosheba, knowing that God’s plans prevail.
Illustration:
Use the example of a firefighter rescuing someone from a burning building, emphasizing the courage and timing involved. Similarly, God’s intervention is always perfectly timed to accomplish His purposes.

II. The Role of Faithful Leaders (Verses 4–12)

Key Verse: “Jehoiada brought out the king’s son and put the crown on him; he presented him with a copy of the covenant and proclaimed him king” (v. 12).
Main Point: Jehoiada’s leadership and strategic planning ensured that Joash was crowned king and the Davidic covenant was upheld. Faithful leaders are crucial in carrying out God’s purposes.
Transition: Leadership is a stewardship. How can we ensure that our influence is aligned with God’s will?
Application:
Use your influence to glorify God and advance His purposes, whether in your family, workplace, or church.
Pray for and support godly leaders who are committed to His ways.
Illustration:
Share a modern example of a leader who courageously guided others through a crisis, pointing to the importance of character and vision in leadership.

III. Removing Idolatry and Restoring Worship (Verses 13–18)

Key Verse: “They went into the temple of Baal and tore it down. They smashed the altars and idols to pieces…” (v. 18).
Main Point: The destruction of Baal worship and the renewal of the covenant highlight the importance of pure worship and rejecting anything that takes the place of God.
Transition: Just as Judah had to remove idols, we must examine our own hearts for distractions that hinder true worship.
Application:
Identify and remove modern idols in your life, such as materialism, ambition, or unhealthy relationships.
Commit to worshiping God in spirit and truth, aligning your life with His Word.
Illustration:
Compare idolatry to carrying unnecessary weight during a marathon—it hinders progress and keeps us from reaching the goal. Removing idols allows us to run the race of faith with freedom.

IV. Living in the Peace of God’s Reign (Verses 19–21)

Key Verse: “All the people of the land rejoiced, and the city was calm, because Athaliah had been slain with the sword at the palace” (v. 20).
Main Point: The restoration of righteous leadership brought peace and joy to Judah. God’s reign always results in flourishing when His people submit to His authority.
Transition: How can we experience the peace of God’s reign in our daily lives?
Application:
Submit to God’s rule in every area of your life, trusting in His wisdom and guidance.
Promote peace and godliness in your family, church, and community by living out your faith.
Illustration:
Share a story of a broken relationship being restored through forgiveness and leadership, showing how submission to God’s will brings peace.

Conclusion

Summary of Main Points:
Trust God’s sovereignty, knowing His promises will never fail.
Follow the example of faithful leaders like Jehosheba and Jehoiada in advancing God’s purposes.
Remove idols and distractions, committing to worship God alone.
Live in submission to God’s reign, experiencing His peace and joy.
Call to Action:
Reflect on areas of your life where you need to trust God more fully or remove idols.
Commit to using your influence for God’s glory and supporting godly leadership.
Rejoice in the peace and joy that come from submitting to God’s authority.
Closing Illustration:
Share a testimony of someone who experienced transformation by trusting in God’s plan and committing fully to Him, encouraging the congregation to take similar steps.

Illustrations and Examples

God’s Sovereignty: A story of a rescue mission or unexpected deliverance that illustrates God’s providence and timing.
Faithful Leadership: The example of a coach, mentor, or leader who guided a team or group to success through wisdom and courage.
Removing Idolatry: An analogy of decluttering a house—just as physical clutter hinders comfort and peace, spiritual idols prevent wholehearted worship of God.
God’s Peace: A story of reconciliation or restoration that demonstrates the joy and calm that come from living under God’s authority.

Application for Today’s Christian

Trust in God’s Sovereignty:
Reflect on a situation where God’s control seemed unclear. Surrender it to Him, trusting that He is working for your good and His glory.
Share stories of God’s faithfulness with others to encourage their trust in Him.
Live as Faithful Leaders:
Use your position, whether as a parent, coworker, or community member, to lead with integrity and align your actions with God’s purposes.
Pray for discernment and wisdom to make decisions that honor God.
Pursue Pure Worship:
Identify anything in your life that competes for your devotion to God. Confess and remove these distractions, prioritizing time in Scripture and prayer.
Participate actively in corporate worship, valuing the community of believers.
Rejoice in God’s Peace:

Seek God’s peace through regular submission to His Word and prayer.
Be a peacemaker in your relationships, reflecting the peace of Christ to those around you.

Reflection Questions

How does God’s protection of Joash and the preservation of David’s line encourage you to trust His control over your life?
Are there situations in your life where you find it difficult to trust God’s timing or plan? How can this chapter strengthen your faith?
What qualities of Jehosheba and Jehoiada’s leadership stand out to you?
In what areas of your life has God called you to lead? How can you follow their example of courage and faithfulness?
What modern “idols” in your life may compete with your devotion to God (e.g., materialism, relationships, career)?
What steps can you take to renew your worship and focus on God alone?