God’s Mercy In The Midst Of Spiritual Decline Series

GOD’S MERCY IN THE MIDST OF SPIRITUAL DECLINE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 2 Kings 13:1-25

Supporting Texts: Psalm 103:8–10; Lamentations 3:22–23; Isaiah 30:18; Romans 11:22; 2 Timothy 2:13

INTRODUCTION:

2 Kings 13 records the reigns of Jehoahaz and Jehoash (also called Joash), successive kings of Israel, both of whom reigned during seasons of deep national apostasy. The chapter paints a picture of spiritual decline and political oppression due to sin, yet reveals the mercy of God that still operates in the face of human failure. Even though Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord and continued in the sins of Jeroboam, God did not utterly destroy them.

The Lord allowed them to be oppressed by Hazael and Ben-Hadad of Syria as a form of discipline, but when Jehoahaz cried out, God heard and sent a deliverer. Even in their compromise, God remembered His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The chapter closes with a final account of the prophet Elisha’s ministry and a symbolic miracle that points to the enduring power of God’s word—even after His servants are gone.

This chapter is a powerful reminder that God's mercy is not based on our merit but on His covenant. Even in times of spiritual drought, He looks for intercession, repentance, and faith. Though judgment may be deserved, God delights in showing mercy, and He often preserves a remnant for His purpose.

1. GOD ALLOWS OPPRESSION TO BRING A NATION TO REPENTANCE

Israel’s rebellion led to divine discipline through foreign oppression.

a) Jehoahaz reigned in wickedness, continuing Jeroboam’s idolatry

He did what was evil in the sight of the Lord (2 Kings 13:1-2).

b) God gave Israel over to the hands of Hazael and Ben-Hadad

The Lord used foreign nations to humble them (v.3).

c) National bondage often reflects spiritual rebellion

When God’s people abandon Him, they become prey to enemies.

d) Even discipline from God has a redemptive purpose

It is not meant to destroy, but to bring about repentance.

Biblical Example: The Israelites were handed over to Midian during the time of Gideon because of idolatry (Judges 6:1-6).

2. GOD HEARS GENUINE CRIES FOR MERCY

Despite his sins, Jehoahaz cried out to God—and God listened.

a) In desperation, Jehoahaz sought the face of God (v.4)

Though he reigned in sin, his plea was not ignored.

b) God raised a deliverer—not because they deserved it, but because He is merciful

His compassion was rooted in His covenant, not Israel’s conduct (v.5).

c) The Lord saw the oppression of Israel and had pity on them

He never delights in prolonged suffering (Psalm 103:13-14).

d) God’s ears are open to the cries of even the undeserving when they call with sincerity

Mercy can interrupt judgment when repentance arises.

Biblical Example: Manasseh, one of Judah’s most wicked kings, was heard when he humbled himself in exile (2 Chronicles 33:10-13).

3. DIVINE MERCY DOES NOT CANCEL THE NEED FOR FULL REPENTANCE

Israel’s deliverance did not lead to total transformation.

a) After God intervened, the people returned to their idolatrous ways

They continued in the sins of Jeroboam (v.6).

b) God’s mercy can be misunderstood if not accompanied by true repentance

They saw relief as license instead of an opportunity for reformation.

c) Half-hearted repentance leads to repeated bondage

Though spared, Israel remained spiritually stagnant.

d) God desires transformation, not just temporary remorse

Mercy is a call to deeper devotion, not to complacency.

Biblical Example: Pharaoh repented under pressure but hardened his heart again when the plagues were lifted (Exodus 9:27-35).

4. GOD’S WORD REMAINS POWERFUL EVEN AFTER HIS SERVANTS ARE GONE

Elisha’s final prophetic act teaches the endurance of divine power.

a) On his deathbed, Elisha gave King Joash prophetic instructions

The arrow shot symbolised victory over Syria (v.14–17).

b) Limited obedience led to limited results

Joash struck the ground only three times and received a partial victory (v.18–19).

c) The power of God was still active in Elisha’s bones

A dead man came back to life when touching Elisha’s bones (v.20–21).

d) God honours His word beyond the lifetime of His servants

What He spoke through His prophets does not die with them.

Biblical Example: The word of the Lord spoken through Samuel was still respected long after his death (1 Samuel 3:19-20).

5. GOD IS FAITHFUL TO HIS COVENANT DESPITE HUMAN FAILURE

Israel was preserved not because of righteousness but because of covenant.

a) The Lord was gracious to them because of His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob

He would not cast them from His presence (v.23).

b) God’s faithfulness is not changed by man’s inconsistency

Even when Israel was unfaithful, God remained true.

c) His mercy is rooted in who He is, not who we are

He remembered His promise even in the days of spiritual dryness.