When he is seven years old, Joash becomes the rightful king of Judah in place of the usurper Athaliah. Joash’s faithfulness to the LORD is evident in the repairs he oversees for the LORD’s temple. Making use of the gifts of God’s people in both money and skill, Joash draws the attention of Judah back to the place where the LORD has placed His name to distribute the forgiveness of sins. Nonetheless, the high places remain during Joash’s reign, and he is forced to give tribute to Syria. Although a conspiracy brings an end to Joash’s reign, his son Amaziah still becomes king in his place.

Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, pastor at Grace Lutheran Church and School in Brenham, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 2 Kings 11:21-12:21.

To learn more about Grace Lutheran, visit www.gracebrenham.org.

"A Kingdom Divided” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Kings. The division in the kingdom of Israel in this part of history was greater than a matter of north and south. The biggest division was between the people and their God. Yet even as the people rebelled against the LORD as their King, still He remained faithful to call them back to Himself through His prophets, working through history to send the good and gracious King, Jesus Christ.

Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: [email protected]