“Then
Amaziah sent messengers to Jehoash, the son of Jehoahaz son of Jehu, king of
Israel, saying, “Come, let us face each other.” (V.8)
Amaziah, king of southern Juda, like many kings before him
started off well. After gaining control of the kingdom, he eliminated those
officials who had assassinated his father, but spared their sons. Why? Because
he knew God’s law, which said that children should not be put to death for
their fathers’ sins (Deut. 24:16). He knew God’s word and put it into practice.
In addition, Amaziah had great success in battle, defeating large armies and
securing new cities.
However, despite that impressive start, Amaziah’s end was
not so wonderful. In arrogance, he challenged Israel to battle, lost miserably,
and saw the temple depleted of its riches. Eventually he was forced from
Jerusalem and killed by conspirators. The king had a godly start that ended in
misery and defeat. Clues as to why are given early on: he was no King David,
for he allowed the high places to remain (vv. 3-4). Early faithfulness soon
turned to incomplete devotion and arrogant action.
The Truth
“Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before
a fall.” (Proverbs 16:18)
