In 2 Kings 11, Athaliah, the mother of Ahaziah, seizes power in Judah after her son’s death. To secure her position, she kills all potential royal heirs. However, Jehosheba, the sister of Ahaziah, saves Joash, one of the king’s sons, by hiding him and his nurse in the Temple for six years (verses 1-3).

During Athaliah’s rule, Jehoiada the priest secretly prepares to overthrow her. In the seventh year, Jehoiada reveals Joash to the commanders, the Carites, and the guards, and they agree to support Joash as king. They stage a coup, stationing guards around the Temple and the young king (verses 4-12).

Jehoiada then leads a public coronation of Joash, presenting him with the crown and the testimony. The people rejoice, and Athaliah hears the commotion. She comes to the Temple, sees Joash crowned, and cries “Treason!” The guards capture her, and she is executed outside the Temple (verses 13-16).

Jehoiada makes a covenant between the Lord, the king, and the people to be the Lord’s people. They destroy the temple of Baal, break its altars and images, and kill Mattan, the priest of Baal (verses 17-18). Joash is then seated on the throne, and the land has peace (verses 19-20).

Life Applications from 2 Kings 11

1. Protection of the Innocent (verses 2-3):

• Application: Just as Jehosheba protected the young Joash, we are called to protect those who are vulnerable and innocent. This can be applied in many contexts, from safeguarding children to standing up for the rights of those who cannot defend themselves.

1. Courage and Faithfulness (verses 4-12):

• Application: Jehoiada’s courage in orchestrating a coup against the usurper Athaliah and his faithfulness to God’s promise to David’s lineage inspire us to act boldly and faithfully in our commitments and to trust in God’s plan even when it requires risk.

1. Righteous Leadership (verses 17-18):

• Application: Jehoiada’s actions in restoring true worship and destroying the temple of Baal highlight the importance of righteous leadership. Leaders today, whether in religious, social, or political spheres, should strive to eliminate corruption and idolatry, promoting justice and true worship.

1. Community and Covenant (verse 17):

• Application: The covenant made between the Lord, the king, and the people emphasizes the importance of community and shared values. In our lives, we should cultivate communities built on mutual commitments to righteousness, support, and accountability.

1. Celebration of Deliverance (verses 12, 20):

• Application: The people’s joy at Joash’s coronation and the subsequent peace remind us to celebrate moments of deliverance and restoration in our lives. Recognizing and celebrating these moments can reinforce our faith and gratitude towards God.