Why Did Joash Turn Away From God Later In Life?
The Rise and Fall of King Joash: Why Did He Turn Away From God?
King Joash (also called Jehoash) is a striking figure in the history of Judah. His life, as recorded in 2 Kings 11–12 and 2 Chronicles 22–24, offers a powerful lesson about faith, leadership, and the dangers of drifting from God. Joash’s early years were marked by faithfulness, but in the latter part of his reign, he turned away from the Lord. What happened? Let’s explore the biblical account and draw out lessons for our own walk with God.
Joash’s Early Faithfulness Under Jehoiada’s Guidance
Joash became king as a child after being hidden from the murderous Queen Athaliah. His mentor and spiritual guide was Jehoiada the priest. Under Jehoiada’s influence, Joash restored the temple and led the people in the worship of Yahweh:
And Joash did that which was right in the eyes of Jehovah all the days of Jehoiada the priest. - 2 Chronicles 24:2 ASV
Jehoiada’s godly counsel was crucial. The people, too, followed the Lord while Jehoiada lived. This is a reminder of the importance of godly influences and accountability in our spiritual journey.
What Changed? The Turning Point After Jehoiada’s Death
The tragedy of Joash’s story unfolds after the death of Jehoiada. Scripture records a dramatic shift:
But after the death of Jehoiada the princes of Judah came, and made obeisance to the king. Then the king hearkened unto them. And they forsook the house of Jehovah, the God of their fathers, and served the Asherim and the idols... - 2 Chronicles 24:17-18 ASV
Joash listened to the wrong voices—the princes of Judah—who led him and the nation into idolatry. Without Jehoiada's godly counsel, Joash was easily swayed. This shows how our faith can be vulnerable when it is overly dependent on others, rather than rooted personally in God.
The Hardening of Joash’s Heart
God, in His mercy, sent prophets to warn Joash and call him to repentance.
Yet he sent prophets to them, to bring them again unto Jehovah; and they testified against them: but they would not give ear. - 2 Chronicles 24:19 ASV
Most notably, Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, was sent to confront Joash. Shockingly, rather than repenting, Joash gave orders to have Zechariah killed:
And they conspired against him, and stoned him with stones at the commandment of the king in the court of the house of Jehovah. - 2 Chronicles 24:21 ASV
Joash’s heart had become hardened to the truth, leading to tragic consequences for himself and his nation.
Key Lessons from Joash’s Downfall
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Faith Must Be Personal: Joash’s faith was reliant on Jehoiada. While mentors are essential, each believer must cultivate a personal relationship with God. Jesus emphasized this when He said,
I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same beareth much fruit: for apart from me ye can do nothing. - John 15:5 ASV
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Beware of Ungodly Influences: Joash was led astray by the princes of Judah. Scripture warns,
Be not deceived: Evil companionships corrupt good morals. - 1 Corinthians 15:33 ASV
- Respond to God’s Warnings: God is gracious to warn us when we stray. Ignoring His Word leads to spiritual disaster.
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End Well: Joash started well but finished poorly. The Bible teaches us to persevere in faith:
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith. - 2 Timothy 4:7 ASV
The Gospel Perspective
Joash’s story highlights humanity’s need for a Savior. Even the best of kings can fall without God’s sustaining grace. Salvation is not by works, heritage, or association, but by grace through faith in Jesus Christ:
For by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not of works, that no man should glory. - Ephesians 2:8 ASV
We are called to a steadfast, growing relationship with Christ that endures to the end.
Conclusion
Joash’s tragic end warns us of the dangers of relying on others for our faith, ignoring God’s warnings, and failing to remain steadfast. May we take these lessons to heart, rooting ourselves in Christ, and pressing on to finish well for the glory of God.