2 Chronicles 34:21 – “Go and inquire of the Lord for me and for the remnant in Israel and Judah about what is written in this book that has been found. Great is the Lord’s anger that is poured out on us because those who have gone before us have not kept the word of the Lord; they have not acted in accordance with all that is written in this book.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, King Josiah sends his officials to inquire of the Lord after hearing the words from the Book of the Law. Josiah is deeply troubled because he realizes that the people of Judah have been living in disobedience to God’s commands for many years. He acknowledges that their ancestors failed to keep God’s law, and as a result, God’s anger is upon the nation. Josiah wants to know what the consequences of this disobedience will be and what steps they can take to seek God’s mercy.
This verse captures Josiah’s heart of repentance and his desire to seek God’s will for the future of Judah. He recognizes that the nation is in spiritual crisis, and he seeks divine guidance on how to address the situation.
Historical Context
Josiah was king of Judah during a time when the nation had been spiritually adrift for many years. Previous kings had led the people into idol worship, and the temple had fallen into disrepair. Josiah, however, began to seek God early in his reign and initiated a series of reforms to restore proper worship. During the process of repairing the temple, the Book of the Law, which contained God’s commandments, was discovered by Hilkiah the high priest. When Josiah heard the words of the Law, he realized that the people of Judah had been living in disobedience for generations.
In the context of Israel’s history, the Law contained blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience (Deuteronomy 28). Josiah understood that the nation had broken God’s covenant and that judgment was likely coming as a result. His decision to “inquire of the Lord” shows his humility and willingness to seek God’s guidance in a time of crisis.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse highlights the importance of repentance and seeking God’s will in times of spiritual crisis. Josiah’s response to the discovery of the Law shows that when we are confronted with our sin, the right response is to turn to God for guidance and mercy. Josiah didn’t ignore the warnings of the Law or assume that everything would work out on its own. Instead, he took immediate action, seeking God’s direction on how to respond.
This verse also shows that God holds His people accountable for their actions. The fact that Josiah acknowledges the disobedience of their ancestors shows that God’s covenant was not something to be taken lightly. The consequences of sin are real, and Josiah recognizes that the nation is in danger of facing God’s judgment for its disobedience.
Literary Analysis
The verse is structured as a direct command from Josiah to his officials, showing his urgency in seeking God’s will. The phrase “Go and inquire of the Lord” reflects Josiah’s humility and recognition of the need for divine guidance. The reference to “the remnant in Israel and Judah” emphasizes that even though the nation had been divided and weakened, there were still those who sought to follow God.
The use of the phrase “Great is the Lord’s anger” shows the seriousness of the situation. Josiah understands that the nation is under God’s judgment, and he wants to know how to avoid further wrath. The verse also highlights Josiah’s role as a leader who takes responsibility for the spiritual state of his people.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 28:15: “However, if you do not obey the Lord your God and do not carefully follow all his commands and decrees I am giving you today, all these curses will come on you and overtake you.” This passage outlines the consequences of disobedience that Josiah would have been referring to.
- 2 Kings 22:13: This parallel passage provides additional context for Josiah’s inquiry, showing his determination to seek God’s will after hearing the Law.
- James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” Like Josiah, we are called to seek God’s wisdom when faced with difficult decisions or spiritual challenges.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse reminds us of the importance of seeking God’s will in times of crisis. When we are confronted with sin or face the consequences of disobedience, our first response should be to turn to God for guidance and mercy. Josiah’s example shows us that we should not ignore the conviction of God’s Word but instead take action to address the spiritual issues in our lives.
This verse also challenges us to take responsibility for the spiritual health of our families, communities, and churches. Just as Josiah led his people in repentance, we are called to be leaders in seeking God’s will and encouraging others to turn to Him.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in this passage because He makes His will known to His people through His Word. Even though the people of Judah had strayed far from God, He allowed them to rediscover the Law so that they could repent and return to Him. God’s anger at sin is real, but His desire is for His people to turn back to Him in repentance. Josiah’s inquiry of the Lord shows that God is always ready to respond to those who seek Him with a humble heart.
God’s love is also seen in the fact that He holds His people accountable for their actions, not to punish them, but to bring them back into a right relationship with Him. By seeking God’s guidance, Josiah was acknowledging that only God could provide the wisdom and mercy needed to restore the nation.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse points to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan for redemption. While Josiah sought guidance on how to avoid God’s judgment for the nation’s disobedience, Jesus came to take the punishment for our sins upon Himself. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus offers forgiveness and a way for us to be reconciled with God.
In the same way that Josiah sought the Lord’s wisdom, we are called to seek Jesus, who is the wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:24). Jesus not only provides the answers to our spiritual questions but also offers the grace and salvation we need to escape the consequences of sin.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do you respond when you are confronted with sin or disobedience in your life? Do you seek God’s guidance like Josiah did?
- What steps can you take to be more intentional about seeking God’s will when you face difficult decisions or spiritual challenges?
- How does Josiah’s concern for the spiritual state of his nation challenge you to take responsibility for the spiritual health of your community or family?
- In what ways do you see God’s love and mercy in the fact that He allows His people to repent and return to Him?
- How does this verse point you to Jesus as the one who provides ultimate forgiveness and reconciliation with God?
This verse encourages us to seek God’s will with humility and urgency, just as Josiah did. It reminds us that when we are confronted with the consequences of sin, God is always ready to guide us back to Him. Ultimately, this passage points us to Jesus, who offers us the grace and salvation we need to escape the judgment we deserve and to live in right relationship with God.