TRV
See on the biblical-era map
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 2 Chronicles 24:1–14.
This account of Joash's good beginnings we had as it stands here Kg2 12:1, etc., though the latter part of this chapter, concerning his apostasy, we had little of there. What is good in men we should take all occasions to speak of and often repeat it; what is evil we should make mention of but sparingly, and no more than is needful. We shall here only observe, 1. That it is a happy thing for young people, when they are setting out in the world, to be under the direction of those that are wise and good and faithful to them, as Joash was under the influence of Jehoiada, during whose time he did that which was right. Let those that are young reckon it a blessing to them, and not a burden and check upon them, to have those with them that will caution them against that which is evil and advise and quicken them to that which is good; and let them reckon it not a mark of weakness and subjection, but of wisdom and discretion, to hearken to such. He that will not be counselled cannot be helped. It is especially prudent for young people to take advice in their marriages, as Joash did, who left it to his guardian to choose him his wives, because Jezebel and Athaliah had been such plagues, Ch2 24:3. This is a turn of life which often proves either the making or marring of young people, and therefore should be attended to with great care. 2. Men may go far in the external performances of religion, and keep long to them, merely by the power of their education and the influence of their friends, who yet have no hearty affection for divine things nor any inward relish of them. Foreign inducements may push men on to that which is good who are not actuated by a living principle of grace in their hearts. 3. In the outward expressions of devotion it is possible that those who have only the form of godliness may out-strip those who have the power of it. Joash is more solicitous and more zealous about the repair of the temple than Jehoiada himself, whom he reproves for his remissness in that matter, Ch2 24:6. It is easier to build temples than to be temples to God. 4. The repairing of churches is a good work, which all in their places should promote, for the decency and conveniency of religious assemblies. The learned tell us that in the Christian church, anciently, part of the tithes were applied that way. 5. Many a good work would be done that now lies undone if there were but a few active men to stir in it and to put it forward. When Joash found the money did not come in as he expected in one way he tried another way, and that answered the intention. Many have honesty enough to follow that have not zeal enough to lead in that which is good. The throwing of money into a chest, through a hole in the lid of it, was a way that had not been used before, and perhaps the very novelty of the thing made it a successful expedient for the raising of money; a great deal was thrown in and with a great deal of cheerfulness: they all rejoiced, Ch2 24:10. An invention to please people's humour may sometimes bring them to their duty. Wisdom herein is profitable to direct. 6. Faithfulness is the greatest praise and will be the greatest comfort of those that are entrusted with public treasure or employed in public business. The king and Jehoiada faithfully paid the money to the workmen, who faithfully did the work, Ch2 24:12, Ch2 24:13.
Continue studying 2 Chronicles 24:13 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.
Read & Compare
BibleGatewayThis verse in more than 200 translations and 70 languages.
Bible.comThe YouVersion reader — hundreds of translations, reading plans, and highlights.
ESV.orgCrossway's official English Standard Version reader.
NET BibleThe NET translation with 60,000+ translators' notes on every rendering decision.
STEP BibleTyndale House's free study tool — original text, vocabulary, and scholarly resources.
BibliaLogos Bible Software's free web reader.
USCCBThe New American Bible (Revised Edition) with the U.S. bishops' study notes.
Commentaries
BibleHub CommentariesDozens of classic commentaries on this verse, gathered on one page.
StudyLightMore than 100 commentary sets — the largest collection on the web.
BibleRefPlain-English commentary on what this verse means, verse by verse.
Enduring WordDavid Guzik's free commentary on this chapter, widely used by Bible teachers.
Bible Study ToolsVerse commentary alongside Greek and Hebrew study aids.
Original Language & Research
- BibleHub InterlinearThe verse word by word — original language, transliteration, and English.
- BibleHub LexiconEvery word's original-language definition and Strong's entry.
Blue Letter BibleDeep-study tools — Strong's numbers, concordance, and word studies.
SefariaThe Hebrew text with Rashi and centuries of Jewish commentary.
Sermons, Hymns & Audio
TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.
Summary
2 Chronicles 24:13 describes the successful and thorough completion of the Temple restoration project initiated by King Joash. Through the diligent and skilled labor of the commissioned workmen, the sacred "house of God" was not merely repaired but brought to a state of complete perfection and structural integrity, re-establishing its original grandeur and proper condition. This verse marks a pivotal moment of spiritual and physical renewal for the nation of Judah under the early, righteous leadership of King Joash and the high priest Jehoiada.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is strategically placed within the narrative of King Joash's reign in 2 Chronicles 24, serving as the triumphant climax of the Temple restoration efforts. It follows the detailed account of Joash's early, faithful leadership under Jehoiada's guidance, the innovative collection of funds for the Temple repair (2 Chronicles 24:4-11), and the subsequent commissioning of skilled laborers. The preceding verses emphasize the enthusiastic response of the people, who contributed generously, providing ample resources for the work. Verse 13 immediately precedes the description of the new Temple vessels made from the leftover funds (2 Chronicles 24:14), highlighting the abundance of resources and the completeness of the restoration. This period of faithfulness, however, is tragically contrasted by Joash's later apostasy after Jehoiada's death, leading to the Temple's subsequent desecration and Judah's decline, as recounted in 2 Chronicles 24:17-27.
Historical & Cultural Context
The Temple in Jerusalem, originally built by King Solomon, had fallen into severe disrepair and even desecration during the tumultuous and idolatrous reign of Athaliah, Joash's grandmother. As documented in 2 Chronicles 24:7, Athaliah's sons, influenced by her devotion to Baal, had plundered and defiled the sacred structure. Joash, having been hidden and then enthroned at a remarkably young age (2 Chronicles 23), was profoundly influenced by Jehoiada, who had preserved his life and guided his early rule. The Temple restoration project was far more than a mere physical repair; it was a profound act of national repentance, a symbolic return to covenant fidelity, and a renewed commitment to the God of Israel. Culturally, the Temple was the spiritual epicenter of the nation, the primary place of worship, sacrifice, and the perceived dwelling place of God's presence among His people. Its dilapidated state reflected the spiritual decay of the nation, and its restoration symbolized a powerful return to proper worship and national identity. The method of collecting funds through chests placed at the Temple gate was an innovative and effective way to involve the populace directly in the sacred work, fostering a sense of collective ownership and spiritual revival.
Key Themes
2 Chronicles 24:13 significantly contributes to several overarching themes prevalent throughout the book of Chronicles. Foremost among these is the theme of restoration and renewal, underscoring God's enduring faithfulness to His covenant people even after periods of spiritual decline, and emphasizing the vital role of human diligence in responding to His call for renewal. The verse also highlights the theme of righteous leadership, as Joash's early obedience and his willingness to be guided by Jehoiada directly led to this successful outcome, standing in stark contrast to the destructive reign of Athaliah, as seen in 2 Chronicles 22:10-12. The centrality of the Temple as the physical embodiment of God's presence and the proper place of worship is powerfully emphasized; its restoration signified a renewed reverence for God and a re-establishment of proper worship practices. Finally, the diligence and excellence in service demonstrated by the workmen reflect a broader biblical principle that work done for God should always be of the highest quality, a principle consistently illustrated in the detailed instructions for the construction of the tabernacle and the first Temple, such as those found in Exodus 25.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This primitive root means "to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application." In the context of 2 Chronicles 24:13, it signifies the active, purposeful, and diligent labor of the workmen. It emphasizes not just the act of working, but the effective and productive execution of the task, highlighting the human agency and industry involved in bringing the restoration project to fruition.
This feminine passive participle signifies "wholeness" or "restoring to soundness." Applied to the work on the Temple, it indicates that the restoration was not merely completed, but brought to a state of full integrity, health, and completeness. It implies a comprehensive and thorough restoration that achieved a perfect, sound condition, going beyond superficial repair to achieve true wholeness and durability.
This noun refers to "proportion (in size, number or ingredients)" or "measure." When the text states they "set the house of God in his state," it means they restored it to its original, prescribed, or appropriate condition and standard. It implies a return to the divinely intended design, functionality, and structural integrity, signifying a complete and accurate re-establishment of its proper form.
Verse Breakdown
"So the workmen wrought"
This opening phrase immediately highlights the active and diligent labor of the skilled individuals who were commissioned for the Temple restoration. It emphasizes their commitment, expertise, and the physical effort they invested, directly attributing the success of the project to their dedicated work.
"and the work was perfected by them"
This clause signifies the successful and complete execution of the repairs. The use of "perfected" indicates that the work was not just finished, but done thoroughly, robustly, and to a high standard, bringing the Temple to a state of strength and stability that went beyond a mere superficial fix. It underscores the quality and comprehensiveness of their efforts.
"and they set the house of God in his state"
This phrase means that the workmen restored the Temple to its original, proper condition, standard, or design. It suggests a meticulous return to the divinely intended blueprint and functionality, implying that the sacred structure was brought back to its former glory and sacred order, precisely as it was meant to be.
"and strengthened it"
This final phrase serves to reiterate and powerfully reinforce the idea of comprehensive and lasting restoration. It emphasizes that the Temple was made structurally sound, resilient, and durable, ensuring its integrity and stability for future generations. This speaks not only to its aesthetic restoration but, more importantly, to its foundational and enduring integrity.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its message effectively and powerfully. Emphasis is achieved through the repetition and reinforcement of the idea of thorough completion and strength. Phrases like "perfected by them" and "strengthened it" work in tandem to convey a profound sense of comprehensive and lasting repair, leaving no doubt about the quality of the work. The narrative also uses Culmination as a device, presenting this verse as the triumphant peak of the Temple restoration efforts under Joash's early reign, providing a satisfying and decisive resolution to the problem of the Temple's disrepair and desecration. Furthermore, the Temple itself acts as a powerful Symbolism. Its physical restoration profoundly symbolizes the spiritual renewal and renewed covenant faithfulness of the people and their king, reflecting a powerful return to proper worship and reverence for God after a period of apostasy and neglect. The diligent work of the craftsmen also serves as an Exemplum, providing a clear and inspiring example of dedication, excellence, and collaborative effort in service to God.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This verse powerfully illustrates God's desire for His dwelling place to be honored and meticulously maintained, and His willingness to bless diligent human efforts towards restoration. The Temple's repair signifies a profound renewed commitment to God's presence and covenant among His people, reflecting a spiritual revival that began with Joash's early faithfulness and the guidance of Jehoiada. It underscores the vital biblical principle that human effort, when aligned with divine purpose, guided by righteous leadership, and executed with excellence, can bring about significant and lasting renewal, both physically and spiritually. The thoroughness of the work—described as "perfected" and "strengthened"—speaks directly to the biblical emphasis on excellence in all things done for the Lord, mirroring the detailed and precise instructions God gave for the building of the Tabernacle and the first Temple, setting a standard for sacred service.
Reflection and Application
2 Chronicles 24:13 offers a profound and enduring lesson on the importance of diligence, excellence, and the transformative power of restoration, applicable to both physical structures and spiritual lives. Just as the physical Temple, God's dwelling place, required dedicated and skilled effort to be brought back to its proper state, so too do our spiritual "houses"—our individual lives, our families, our churches, and our communities—often require intentional, persistent work to be restored, strengthened, and brought into alignment with God's design. This verse serves as a powerful call to self-examination, prompting us to identify areas of neglect or disrepair in our own spiritual walk or in the collective body of Christ. It encourages us to approach all tasks undertaken for the Lord, no matter how seemingly mundane, with the same commitment to perfection and thoroughness demonstrated by the workmen. Furthermore, it reminds us that true restoration is not merely about superficial fixes but about rebuilding foundational strength, returning to God's intended design, and fostering a renewed reverence for His presence among us. This process often requires courageous, God-centered leadership, unified collective effort, and a deep, abiding desire for spiritual renewal.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does it mean that the work was "perfected" and the Temple "set in his state"?
The term "perfected" (Hebrew: ʼărûwkâh, H724) implies that the work was not just completed, but done thoroughly and robustly, bringing the structure to a state of wholeness, soundness, and complete integrity. It wasn't a superficial repair but a comprehensive and lasting restoration. "Set in his state" (Hebrew: mathkôneth, H4971) means the Temple was returned to its original, proper condition, standard, or design. This indicates that the goal was to bring the "house of God" back to its intended glory and functionality, as it was when first built, rather than merely making it functional. It speaks to a complete and high-quality restoration that honored its sacred purpose.
Why was the Temple in disrepair in the first place, requiring such extensive work?
The Temple had suffered significant neglect and even outright desecration during the tumultuous and idolatrous reign of Queen Athaliah, Joash's grandmother. As recorded in 2 Chronicles 24:7, "the sons of Athaliah, that wicked woman, had broken up the house of God; and also all the dedicated things of the house of the Lord did they bestow upon Baalim." This indicates not only severe structural damage but also the plundering of sacred items and the introduction of pagan worship, which led to the Temple's physical and spiritual decline. Joash's restoration project was a direct and necessary response to this desecration, symbolizing a national repentance and a renewed commitment to covenant fidelity with the Lord.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
While 2 Chronicles 24:13 vividly describes the physical restoration of a material temple, its deeper and ultimate fulfillment is found in Christ. Jesus Himself declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," speaking prophetically of the temple of His own body (John 2:21). Just as the earthly Temple was the sacred dwelling place of God among His people, Christ is the ultimate and perfect dwelling place of God, for "in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily" (Colossians 2:9). The diligent and thorough work of the craftsmen in restoring the earthly sanctuary foreshadows the perfect, complete, and redemptive work of Christ on the cross. Through His sacrificial death and glorious resurrection, Jesus not only repairs but utterly perfects and strengthens the spiritual "house" of God's people. He restores humanity to a right "state" with God, making believers "living stones" built into a spiritual house (1 Peter 2:5), which is the church—His body and the new temple where God now dwells by His Holy Spirit (Ephesians 2:21-22). The comprehensive nature of the Temple's restoration in 2 Chronicles 24:13 thus points to the even more profound spiritual renewal and strengthening that Christ provides, transforming us into new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17) and enabling us to stand firm and complete in Him.