What Was Second Quarter in the Bible?
Second Quarter in Jerusalem
The term “Second Quarter” appears in the Bible in three distinct passages: 2 Kings 22:14, 2 Chronicles 34:22, and Zephaniah 1:10. This specific location in Jerusalem holds significant historical and spiritual importance. By examining these references, we can uncover the deeper meanings and lessons that the Second Quarter offers to modern Christians.
2 Kings 22:14
In 2 Kings 22:14, the Second Quarter is mentioned in the context of a critical event during the reign of King Josiah: “So Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam, Achbor, Shaphan, and Asaiah went to speak to the prophetess Huldah, who was the wife of Shallum son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the New Quarter” (NIV). The New Quarter, or Second Quarter, was the location where Huldah the prophetess lived. It was here that Hilkiah the high priest informed the scribe Shaphan about the discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple. This discovery sparked a major religious reform led by King Josiah, emphasizing the importance of rediscovering and adhering to God’s Word.
2 Chronicles 34:22
This verse parallels the account in 2 Kings 22:14: “Hilkiah and those the king had sent with him went to speak to the prophetess Huldah, who was the wife of Shallum son of Tokhath, the son of Hasrah, keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem in the New Quarter” (NIV). Again, the Second Quarter is highlighted as the setting for a pivotal moment in Israel’s history. The rediscovery of the Book of the Law and the subsequent reforms underscore the transformative power of God’s Word and the importance of spiritual renewal.
Zephaniah 1:10
In Zephaniah 1:10, the Second Quarter is mentioned in a prophetic context: “On that day, declares the Lord, a cry will go up from the Fish Gate, wailing from the New Quarter, and a loud crash from the hills.” This verse is part of a prophecy concerning the coming judgment on Jerusalem due to the people’s disobedience and idolatry. The reference to the Second Quarter in this context underscores the inevitability of divine judgment when God’s people turn away from Him. It serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the urgent need for repentance.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
Rediscovery and Obedience to God’s Word
The discovery of the Book of the Law in the Second Quarter during King Josiah’s reign highlights the importance of continually returning to Scripture. For modern Christians, this underscores the necessity of grounding one’s faith and practice in the Word of God. Just as Josiah’s reforms brought spiritual renewal to Israel, personal and communal revival comes through rediscovering and obeying God’s Word.
Spiritual Leadership and Revival
King Josiah’s response to the discovery of the Book of the Law illustrates the vital role of spiritual leadership in guiding others towards God. Modern Christian leaders are called to lead with the same commitment to God’s truth and righteousness, fostering an environment where spiritual revival can take place. This includes teaching, correcting, and encouraging others to live according to biblical principles.
The Reality of Divine Judgment
Zephaniah’s prophecy concerning the Second Quarter serves as a sobering reminder of God’s justice. Disobedience and idolatry bring about divine judgment. For today’s believers, this emphasizes the importance of living in accordance with God’s will, repenting from sin, and striving to maintain a faithful relationship with Him. God’s mercy and judgment are both aspects of His character that call us to holiness and reverence.
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Faithfulness in Providing Guidance
The events in the Second Quarter during King Josiah’s time reflect God’s faithfulness in providing guidance through His Word. Despite the people’s previous neglect, God’s revelation through the Book of the Law showed His enduring commitment to His covenant. This reassures modern Christians of God’s unwavering faithfulness and His desire to guide them through His Word.
Divine Intervention for Renewal
God’s intervention in bringing the Book of the Law to light during a time of spiritual decline demonstrates His love and desire for His people’s renewal. This divine intervention is a testament to God’s proactive role in restoring His people, offering hope for personal and communal renewal today. Believers can trust that God is always working to bring them back to Himself.
Connection to Jesus Christ
Fulfillment of Prophetic Judgments
The judgment pronounced in Zephaniah’s prophecy finds its ultimate resolution in Jesus Christ. Christ bore the judgment for sin on the cross, offering redemption and reconciliation with God. The warnings of judgment in the Old Testament are fulfilled and transformed in the redemptive work of Christ, who offers salvation to all who believe.
Christ as the Living Word
The rediscovery of the Book of the Law in the Second Quarter points to Jesus Christ, who is the living Word of God (John 1:1-14). Christ embodies the truth and revelation of God, bringing spiritual renewal and transformation. Just as the Book of the Law brought revival in Josiah’s time, Jesus brings eternal life and spiritual renewal to all who follow Him.
Conclusion
The Second Quarter in Jerusalem, as mentioned in 2 Kings 22:14, 2 Chronicles 34:22, and Zephaniah 1:10, holds significant historical and spiritual importance. It serves as a backdrop for key moments of rediscovery, revival, and prophetic warning. For modern Christians, these references underscore the importance of adhering to God’s Word, the impact of spiritual leadership, and the reality of divine judgment. The lessons drawn from the Second Quarter encourage believers to seek continual renewal through Scripture, trust in God’s faithfulness, and find ultimate redemption in Jesus Christ, the living Word of God.