2 Kings 22:18 – “Tell the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of the Lord, ‘This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says concerning the words you heard:”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, God begins a message specifically addressed to King Josiah through the prophetess Huldah. Josiah had sent officials to inquire of the Lord after the discovery of the Book of the Law, deeply concerned about the impending judgment revealed in the book. Huldah’s message starts with assurance that God is responding directly to Josiah’s inquiry. This verse serves as an introduction to the Lord’s response, emphasizing that Josiah’s actions and his concerns have been acknowledged by God. The personal nature of the message underscores that God sees the heart and intentions of each individual, even a king, and responds accordingly.
Historical Context
At the time of this event, Judah had long been living in rebellion against God, worshipping idols and neglecting the commandments given in the Law. King Josiah, however, was different. After discovering the neglected Book of the Law during temple renovations, Josiah was struck with deep conviction and took immediate steps to lead the nation in repentance and reform. He initiated the restoration of proper worship and sought to know God’s will, fearing the judgment that had been written in the Law. In sending his officials to seek guidance from God, Josiah demonstrated his humility and desire to do what was right. This verse marks the beginning of God’s direct response to Josiah’s inquiry.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the importance of seeking God’s guidance in times of uncertainty or when facing difficult truths. Josiah’s heart of humility and repentance stands in stark contrast to the arrogance and disobedience of previous kings. Theologically, this demonstrates the principle that when we genuinely seek God’s will with a humble heart, He responds. It also emphasizes God’s personal relationship with His people. Despite being a king, Josiah is still accountable to God’s word, and God responds to him personally, showing that no one is beyond the reach of God’s attention and care.
Literary Analysis
The phrase “Tell the king of Judah” signals that this message is a direct and personal response to Josiah. The formality of the address (“This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says”) reinforces the divine authority of the message. This structure is typical of prophetic pronouncements, underscoring that what follows is not the opinion of the prophet but the very words of God. The shift from general warnings in previous verses to a specific message for Josiah also builds tension, preparing the reader to hear how God will respond to Josiah’s actions.
Biblical Cross-References
- 2 Chronicles 34:26 – The parallel account of this event repeats the same words, highlighting the personal nature of God’s message to Josiah.
- Psalm 34:17 – “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.” This verse reflects God’s attentiveness to those who seek Him, as demonstrated in His response to Josiah.
- Jeremiah 29:13 – “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Josiah’s sincere seeking of God leads to a personal and direct answer from the Lord.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, this verse is a reminder that God responds to those who earnestly seek Him. Just as Josiah sought the Lord with a repentant heart, we are called to approach God with humility when we face challenges or realize our shortcomings. This verse encourages us to turn to God for guidance and trust that He will provide direction. It also reminds us that God sees and cares about the individual, responding personally to our prayers and concerns, no matter our status or position in life.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in the way He responds personally to Josiah. Although Judah had been disobedient, God’s message to Josiah shows that He still listens to those who turn to Him in sincerity. God’s love is expressed in His willingness to provide guidance and offer hope, even when judgment is deserved. This verse reflects the compassionate nature of God, who desires relationship and responds to those who earnestly seek Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse points toward Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate expression of God’s response to humanity’s need for guidance and salvation. Just as God answered Josiah’s plea for direction, Jesus is God’s final and complete answer to the problem of sin and separation from God. In John 14:6, Jesus says, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” Through Jesus, God speaks to us personally, providing the way back to a restored relationship with Him. Josiah’s inquiry and God’s response foreshadow the way Jesus would become the answer to all who seek God with a repentant heart.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can we follow Josiah’s example of seeking God’s guidance in times of uncertainty or when confronted with difficult truths in our lives?
- What does this verse teach us about the personal nature of God’s relationship with us, and how can we be more intentional about seeking His direction?
- How does Jesus serve as the ultimate answer to our need for guidance, much like God’s response to Josiah in this passage?