What Does the Bible Say About Hope for the Helpless
4/28/2024 FINISH WELL: 2 Chr 10:1-36:23
The Apostle Paul wanted to finish his spiritual life well (2 Tim 4:6b-7), even though he thought he started out poorly (1 Tim 1:13-15). This is in contradistinction to much in 2 Chronicles, especially the story of King Joash who escaped death as a baby when taken under the care of Jehoida the priest and his wife (2 Chr 22:10-12). When Josiah turned seven, Jehoida formed a coup that enabled Josiah to take his rightful place as king (2 Chrn 24:1-2). As king, Joash teamed up with Jehoida to assert Yahweh as Lord of Judah (2 Chr 24:4-16).
But when Jehoida died, Joash retracted his allegiance to Yahweh reestablished Asherah worship (2 Chr 24:17-19).
When Jehoida’s son complained, Joash had him executed (2 Chr 24:20-22).
In time, Joash was executed himself and died ignominiously (2 Chr 24:25).
And now we come full circle back to the Apostle Paul’s quote:
…the time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Tim 4:6b-7
This is a challenge for all of us to not only start well, but even more importantly, to finish well.