Podcast Summary: The Bible Recap Episode: Day 186 (2 Kings 12-13, 2 Chronicles 24) - Year 7
Host: Tara-Leigh Cobble
Release Date: July 5, 2025

Introduction

In Day 186 of The Bible Recap, host Tara-Leigh Cobble delves into the complex reigns of King Joash in Judah and Jehoash in the northern kingdom of Israel. This episode explores their leadership, the challenges they faced, and the pivotal moments that defined their kingdoms' fates.

King Joash of Judah: A Reign of Restoration and Decline

Tara begins by recapping King Jehu's rule over the northern kingdom of Israel and transitions to Judah's new king, Joash. At merely seven years old when he ascended the throne, Joash was aptly assisted by a wise priest, ensuring his adherence to God's commands.

"Fortunately, young Joash had a wise advisor, the priest. And as long as the priest was alive, he seemed to keep Joash in line." (00:03)

Despite his youth, Joash displayed remarkable fidelity to God. He initiated the demolition of high places dedicated to idol worship and spearheaded the restoration of the temple, which had suffered neglect due to rampant idolatry.

"He even commanded the restoration of the temple. It had fallen into disrepair since the people had been so focused on worshiping idols instead." (00:05)

However, challenges arose when the priests responsible for financing the restoration either failed to collect the required taxes or embezzled the funds over a span of 23 years. Joash responded by introducing an offering box, encouraging honest workers to take over the restoration efforts, which led to significant progress.

"Joash puts his foot down, makes an offering box, and the people are actually happy to give to this cause." (00:08)

The Priest's Death and Joash's Downfall

The stability of Joash's reign was tied closely to the priest's counsel. Upon the priest's death, Joash's advisors shifted from wise to flattery-driven, leading him into idolatry. A poignant moment unfolds when the priest's son warns Joash of the dire consequences of his sinful path, urging repentance. Contrary to guidance, the people react violently by stoning the priest's son.

"They stone him to death. Terrible." (00:15)

Shortly after, divine judgment manifests through a Syrian army that defeats Judah, wounding King Joash. In his vulnerable state, Joash is overthrown and executed, paving the way for his son, Amaziah, to ascend the throne.

Northern Kingdom of Israel: Jehoahaz and Jehoash

Switching focus to the northern kingdom, the episode recounts the reigns of Jehoahaz and his son Jehoash. Jehoahaz initially recognizes the divine judgment upon Israel and seeks God's favor, though his heart lacks genuine repentance.

"Jehoahaz and the people still don't repent." (00:22)

Despite his shortcomings, God shows mercy by sending a mysterious Savior—whose nature remains ambiguous—as aid to Israel. Nevertheless, true repentance remains elusive, and after Jehoahaz's death, his son Jehoash inherits a similarly troubled kingdom.

Elisha's Prophetic Interactions with King Jehoash

Jehoash's reign in the north is marked by an unusual partnership with the prophet Elisha. Concerned about a looming Syrian threat, Jehoash consults Elisha, who directs him through enigmatic rituals involving arrow shooting and ground beating—actions rooted in divine wisdom.

"I'm not going to try to make sense of how Elisha knew what all of this arrow shooting and ground beating meant... he has prophetic wisdom." (00:30)

In a remarkable event, a dead man is inadvertently thrown into Elisha's tomb, resulting in a miraculous resurrection. Tara reflects on the brevity of this account in the scriptures but emphasizes its significance in showcasing God's power beyond human capability.

"It's one of the strangest stories in all of the Bible." (00:36)

Finally, Elisha's prophecy regarding the battle between Jehoash and Syria comes to fruition, fulfilling the divine warning delivered earlier.

Reflections and Insights

Tara-Leigh shares personal reflections on the themes of divine sovereignty and human limitations. She underscores that God's power transcends human abilities, emphasizing that God's goodness operates independently of human faith or intervention.

"God's power isn't confined to our abilities. He's working even when we can't." (00:45)

This perspective offers encouragement, assuring listeners that God's plans are steadfast and generous, regardless of human shortcomings.

Conclusion

Day 186 of The Bible Recap presents a thorough exploration of leadership, idolatry, prophetic intervention, and divine sovereignty during the reigns of Joash and Jehoash. Through detailed narrative and insightful reflections, Tara-Leigh Cobble invites listeners to ponder the intricate dynamics between human actions and divine will.