2 Chronicles 24:19

KJV

Yet he sent prophets to them, to bring them again unto the LORD; and they testified against them: but they would not give ear.

KJV (with Strong's)

Yet he sent {H7971} prophets {H5030} to them, to bring them again {H7725} unto the LORD {H3068}; and they testified {H5749} against them: but they would not give ear {H238}.

Complete Jewish Bible

In spite of this, he sent them prophets to bring them back to ADONAI; they warned them, but they wouldn't pay attention.

Berean Standard Bible

Nevertheless, the LORD sent prophets to bring the people back to Him and to testify against them; but they would not listen.

American Standard Version

Yet he sent prophets to them, to bring them again unto Jehovah; and they testified against them: but they would not give ear.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Chronicles 24:19 powerfully encapsulates God's persistent grace and humanity's stubborn resistance during the reign of King Joash. Despite Judah's profound apostasy following the death of the righteous high priest Jehoiada, the Lord, in His unwavering mercy, dispatched prophets to call His people back to covenant faithfulness. This verse highlights the divine initiative to restore a broken relationship, yet it tragically concludes with the people's deliberate refusal to heed the warnings and invitations of their compassionate God, setting the stage for impending judgment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the broader narrative of King Joash's reign in [2 Chronicles 24](/2_chronicles/24 "2 Chronicles 24 - The Reign of King Joash"). The chapter begins by detailing Joash's early righteous rule, guided by the high priest Jehoiada, during which significant temple repairs were undertaken and the people served the Lord ([2 Chronicles 24:4-14](/2_chronicles/24-4-14 "2 Chronicles 24:4-14 - Joash Repairs the Temple")). However, a dramatic shift occurs after Jehoiada's death, when the leaders of Judah, no longer restrained, persuaded Joash to abandon the Lord and serve idols and Asherim, leading the nation into profound guilt ([2 Chronicles 24:17-18](/2_chronicles/24-17-18 "2 Chronicles 24:17-18 - Joash's Apostasy")). Verse 19 then describes God's merciful, albeit rejected, response to this apostasy, preceding the divine judgment that would soon befall Judah, culminating in the martyrdom of Zechariah, Jehoiada's son, and the assassination of Joash himself ([2 Chronicles 24:20-25](/2_chronicles/24-20-25 "2 Chronicles 24:20-25 - Zechariah's Martyrdom and Joash's Death")). The verse thus serves as a pivotal moment, illustrating God's final overtures of grace before allowing the consequences of their rebellion to unfold.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period of Joash's reign (c. 835–796 BC) was one of relative stability for Judah, particularly during Jehoiada's lifetime, marked by a return to Mosaic Law and temple worship. However, the influence of surrounding pagan cultures, particularly the idolatrous practices of the northern kingdom of Israel and neighboring nations, remained a constant temptation. After Jehoiada's death, the spiritual vacuum and the inherent human propensity towards idolatry allowed for a rapid resurgence of idol worship, often intertwined with political alliances and social practices that deviated from the covenant. Prophets in ancient Israel and Judah served as God's primary messengers, often standing courageously against the prevailing cultural currents, societal corruption, and even the monarchy itself. Their role was to deliver divine warnings, calls to repentance, and promises of restoration, acting as the conscience of the nation and holding both kings and commoners accountable to the Mosaic Law. The rejection of these prophets, as tragically depicted in this verse, was a recurring and lamentable pattern throughout Israel's history, signaling a deep-seated spiritual rebellion and a profound disregard for the covenant relationship with Yahweh.

* **Key Themes:** [2 Chronicles 24:19](/2_chronicles/24-19 "2 Chronicles 24:19 - God Sends Prophets") contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully underscores the theme of **Divine Persistence and Mercy**, demonstrating God's unwavering faithfulness and His profound desire for His people's repentance, even in the face of their blatant apostasy. He does not immediately abandon them but actively seeks their return, providing ample opportunity for reconciliation. Secondly, the verse highlights the crucial **Role of Prophets** as God's appointed spokespersons, tasked with delivering His truth, testifying against sin, and urging covenant fidelity. Their ministry was central to God's redemptive plan for His people, serving as a divine lifeline. Finally, it starkly portrays the theme of **Human Stubbornness and Rebellion**. The phrase "but they would not give ear" powerfully conveys the people's hardened hearts and their deliberate refusal to listen to God's warnings, a tragic pattern that often led to divine judgment throughout Israel's history, as seen in passages like [Jeremiah 7:25-26](/jeremiah/7-25-26 "Jeremiah 7:25-26 - Persistent Disobedience"). This resistance to God's voice underscores the human capacity for willful disobedience and its dire consequences.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **sent (Hebrew, _shâlach'_):** From H7971, a primitive root meaning "to send away, for, or out." In this context, it emphasizes God's deliberate and proactive initiative. It signifies a divine commissioning, highlighting that the prophets were not self-appointed but divinely authorized messengers. This act of "sending" underscores God's active engagement with His people, pursuing them even in their waywardness, demonstrating His intentionality and desire for reconciliation.
* **prophets (Hebrew, _nâbîyʼ'_):: From H5030, meaning "a prophet or (generally) inspired man." These individuals were specially chosen and empowered by God to speak His very words. The term implies one who "calls out" or "proclaims" a divine message, often serving as a mediator between God and humanity. Their presence here signifies God's direct and personal communication, delivering divine revelation, warning of impending judgment, calling for repentance, and reminding the people of their covenant obligations.
* **give ear (Hebrew, _ʼâzan'_):** From H238, a primitive root meaning "to broaden out the ear (with the hand), i.e. (by implication) to listen; give (perceive by the) ear, hear(-ken)." This phrase implies more than merely hearing with one's physical ears; it denotes an active, intentional act of listening with the purpose of understanding, heeding, and obeying. The negative "would not give ear" therefore signifies a deliberate and willful refusal to pay attention, to comply with the divine message, or to allow it to penetrate and transform the heart. It points to a deep-seated spiritual resistance and a hardening of the heart.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Yet he sent prophets to them":** This clause immediately establishes God's merciful and proactive response to Judah's apostasy. Despite their turning away from Him and their engagement in idolatry, God did not abandon them. Instead, He initiated contact through His chosen messengers, demonstrating His persistent love and unwavering desire for their restoration. This divine action underscores God's character as one who is "slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love" ([Psalm 103:8](/psalm/103-8 "Psalm 103:8 - God's Compassion")), always extending grace before judgment.
* **"to bring them again unto the LORD;":** The explicit purpose of the prophetic ministry is revealed here: to call the people back into a right, covenantal relationship with God. This was not merely about moral correction or social reform, but fundamentally about spiritual renewal and covenant fidelity. The prophets' mission was restorative, aiming to re-establish the broken communion between God and His people, inviting them to repentance, renewed obedience, and a return to the worship of the one true God.
* **"and they testified against them:":** The prophets' message was not always comforting; it often involved rebuke, warning, and a declaration of divine truth. To "testify against" implies a solemn declaration that exposed sin, highlighted covenant violations, and warned of the dire consequences of disobedience. This aspect of the prophetic role served as a divine indictment, holding the people accountable for their actions and leaving them without excuse for their rebellion. It was a clear and unambiguous statement of God's righteous judgment against their unfaithfulness.
* **"but they would not give ear.":** This final, poignant clause reveals the tragic outcome of God's gracious overtures. Despite God's persistent sending of messengers, the clear restorative purpose of their mission, and the direct testimony exposing their sin, the people of Judah willfully refused to listen. This "not giving ear" signifies a deliberate act of spiritual deafness, a hardened heart that consciously chose rebellion over repentance, ultimately sealing their fate and leading to severe divine discipline. It highlights the profound tragedy of human free will exercised in defiance of divine grace.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound theological message. **Juxtaposition** is central, starkly contrasting God's persistent mercy and proactive outreach ("Yet he sent prophets") with the people's stubborn and willful rejection ("but they would not give ear"). This creates a dramatic tension, highlighting the tragedy of human rebellion against divine grace. There is also an element of **Dramatic Irony**, as the reader, familiar with the subsequent events in [2 Chronicles 24](/2_chronicles/24 "2 Chronicles 24 - Joash's Downfall"), knows the dire consequences that will befall Judah due to this very refusal, including the martyrdom of Zechariah, Jehoiada's son, and Joash's own assassination. The phrase "would not give ear" functions as a **Metonymy** for a hardened heart and deliberate disobedience, representing the entirety of their spiritual resistance through a specific action. Furthermore, the narrative echoes a recurring **Thematic Pattern** seen throughout the Old Testament, where God repeatedly sends His messengers, only for His people to reject them, leading to cycles of judgment and exile.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Chronicles 24:19 serves as a microcosm of the broader biblical narrative concerning God's relationship with humanity: His relentless pursuit of His people despite their unfaithfulness, and their tragic propensity to reject His overtures. This verse underscores the fundamental truth of God's character as patient, merciful, and desirous of reconciliation, even when His covenant people stray into idolatry and disobedience. It also highlights the critical role of divine revelation and the human responsibility to respond to it. The refusal to "give ear" is not merely a passive act of ignorance but an active, culpable rejection of God's truth and grace, demonstrating the perilous nature of a hardened heart. This resistance to God's voice, delivered through His chosen messengers, is a recurring theme that ultimately leads to divine judgment, yet it never extinguishes God's underlying redemptive purpose. It is a testament to God's justice that He warns before He judges, and to His grace that He continues to warn even when His warnings are ignored.

* [Deuteronomy 30:19](/deuteronomy/30-19 "Deuteronomy 30:19 - Choose Life or Death")
* [Jeremiah 7:25-26](/jeremiah/7-25-26 "Jeremiah 7:25-26 - Persistent Disobedience and Rejection of Prophets")
* [Isaiah 55:7](/isaiah/55-7 "Isaiah 55:7 - Return to the Lord for Mercy")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The poignant scene in 2 Chronicles 24:19 offers timeless lessons for believers today. It compels us to examine our own responsiveness to God's voice. Just as God sent prophets to Judah, He continues to speak to us through His inspired Word, the indwelling Holy Spirit, and the wisdom of godly counsel within the community of faith. The divine patience and persistent pursuit of His people, even in their rebellion, should inspire profound gratitude and awe, reminding us of the depth of His steadfast love. However, the tragic outcome of Judah's stubbornness serves as a solemn warning: a deliberate and consistent refusal to "give ear" to God's truth can lead to spiritual hardening, a diminished capacity to discern His will, and ultimately, severe consequences. This verse challenges us to cultivate a posture of humility, attentiveness, and spiritual sensitivity, ensuring that our hearts remain pliable and open to conviction, correction, and the transformative power of God's Word. It reminds us that God's grace is not an excuse for complacency but a powerful and ongoing invitation to repentance, transformation, and obedient living.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life might you be "not giving ear" to God's voice, whether through His Word, the Spirit's prompting, or the wisdom of godly counsel?**
* **How does God's persistent sending of prophets, even in the face of rebellion, reveal His unchanging character of love, patience, and justice to you personally?**
* **What practical steps can you take to cultivate a more receptive and obedient heart to God's warnings and invitations in your daily life?**
* **Considering the severe consequences faced by Judah, what is the danger of spiritual stubbornness and ignoring divine truth in our own lives and in the life of the church today?**

### FAQ
**Why did God keep sending prophets if He knew the people would not listen?**

Answer: God's persistent sending of prophets, even when He knew the people would largely reject their message, demonstrates His unwavering character of love, mercy, and justice. Firstly, it underscores His profound desire for His people's repentance and restoration. God is "not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance" ([2 Peter 3:9](/2_peter/3-9 "2 Peter 3:9 - God's Patience")). He provides every opportunity for them to turn back, ensuring that His grace is extended before judgment. Secondly, by sending prophets, God establishes a clear record of His faithfulness and the people's culpability. Their refusal to "give ear" was not due to ignorance but to willful rebellion, leaving them without excuse when judgment eventually came. This act of sending also highlights God's covenant faithfulness; He would not abandon His people without first providing a path back to Him, even if they chose not to take it. This pattern of divine patience and human rejection is a recurring theme throughout the biblical narrative, from the time of the judges to the exile, always emphasizing God's righteousness and humanity's responsibility.

**What were the ultimate consequences of Judah's refusal to listen to the prophets during Joash's reign?**

Answer: The refusal of Judah to "give ear" to the prophets during Joash's reign led to severe and tragic consequences, serving as a stark warning against spiritual stubbornness. Immediately following this period of rejection, God allowed a small Aramean army to invade Judah, which, despite being numerically inferior, defeated a much larger Judean force, inflicting heavy losses and plundering Jerusalem ([2 Chronicles 24:23-24](/2_chronicles/24-23-24 "2 Chronicles 24:23-24 - Aramean Invasion and Plunder")). This defeat was explicitly stated to be divine judgment because the people had forsaken the Lord. Furthermore, Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada (the very priest who had guided Joash righteously), was martyred by Joash himself for prophesying against the people's rebellion, with Zechariah's dying words invoking divine retribution ([2 Chronicles 24:20-22](/2_chronicles/24-20-22 "2 Chronicles 24:20-22 - Zechariah's Martyrdom")). Ultimately, Joash himself was assassinated by his own servants, suffering a dishonorable death and burial outside the royal tombs ([2 Chronicles 24:25](/2_chronicles/24-25 "2 Chronicles 24:25 - Joash's Assassination")). These events demonstrate that ignoring God's warnings, delivered through His prophets, results in divine discipline and the painful consequences of sin, both for individuals and for the nation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
2 Chronicles 24:19, with its depiction of God sending prophets whom His people reject, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. Throughout the Old Testament, God continually sent His "servants the prophets" ([Jeremiah 7:25](/jeremiah/7-25 "Jeremiah 7:25 - God Sent Prophets")) to call Israel to repentance, but their message was often met with stubborn hearts and deaf ears, culminating in their persecution and martyrdom ([Matthew 23:37](/matthew/23-37 "Matthew 23:37 - Jesus Laments Over Jerusalem")). This pattern of divine outreach and human rejection reached its climax when God "sent his Son" ([Galatians 4:4](/galatians/4-4 "Galatians 4:4 - God Sent His Son")), the ultimate Prophet and the very Word of God incarnate ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). Jesus came "to bring them again unto the LORD," not merely through words but through His perfect obedience, atoning sacrifice, and resurrection, offering the ultimate path to reconciliation and eternal life. Yet, just as the prophets before Him, Jesus was largely rejected by His own people ([John 1:11](/john/1-11 "John 1:11 - He Came to His Own")), who "would not give ear" to His divine authority and saving message, ultimately crucifying Him. However, in His glorious resurrection and ascension, Christ triumphed over this rejection, establishing a new covenant through His blood, where the Holy Spirit now enables believers to truly "give ear" to God's voice and live in obedience ([Hebrews 8:10-12](/hebrews/8-10-12 "Hebrews 8:10-12 - The New Covenant")). Thus, 2 Chronicles 24:19 foreshadows the ultimate divine sending and the tragic human response, which was then perfectly and redemptively addressed by the Lamb of God, whose sacrifice offers hope and new life even for the most stubbornly rebellious heart.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Jeremiah 7:25

Since the day that your fathers came forth out of the land of Egypt unto this day I have even sent unto you all my servants the prophets, daily rising up early and sending [them]:

Jeremiah 7:26

Yet they hearkened not unto me, nor inclined their ear, but hardened their neck: they did worse than their fathers.

Isaiah 28:23

¶ Give ye ear, and hear my voice; hearken, and hear my speech.

Isaiah 42:23

Who among you will give ear to this? [who] will hearken and hear for the time to come?

Luke 16:31

And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.

Luke 11:47

Woe unto you! for ye build the sepulchres of the prophets, and your fathers killed them.

Luke 11:51

From the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacharias, which perished between the altar and the temple: verily I say unto you, It shall be required of this generation.