2 Chronicles 24:18Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Those who believe they can rejoin the Church without prayer, relying instead on coercion, or who think they can gain access not through sorrow and repentance but through intimidation, should understand that the Church of the Lord remains closed to them. They should realize that the camp of Christ, unwavering, courageous, and fortified by divine protection, does not succumb to threats. The servant of God, armed with the gospel and adhering to Christ's commandments, may face death, yet he cannot be overcome. Zacharias, the high priest of God, exemplifies righteousness and faith.

A parallel account can be found in the Book of Chronicles. Joash, the king of Judah, was crowned at the tender age of seven by the priest Jehoiada, and throughout Jehoiada’s lifetime, his actions were commendable according to the Scriptures. However, after Jehoiada's death, the Scriptures recount a troubling change: Joash became proud and succumbed to disgraceful desires. Following Jehoiada's passing, the leaders of Judah honored the king, and he began to yield to their influence. They abandoned the temple of the Lord God of their ancestors and turned to worship Asherah poles and idols, which angered the Lord against Judah and Jerusalem due to their transgressions. This illustrates how low and disgraceful passions can stem from pride!