Overview

2 Kings 23 highlights King Josiah’s remarkable efforts to lead Judah in spiritual revival and reform following the rediscovery of the Book of the Law. Josiah gathers all the people and publicly reads the Law, renewing the nation’s covenant with the Lord. In response, he initiates sweeping reforms to purge the land of idolatry and restore proper worship of the one true God. These reforms include removing pagan altars, destroying idols, defiling sites of false worship, and reinstituting the Passover, which had not been properly observed since the time of the judges.

Despite Josiah’s unparalleled devotion to the Lord, the chapter also reveals that Judah’s fate is sealed due to the persistent sins of its previous kings, particularly Manasseh. God’s judgment, pronounced earlier, will not be averted. The chapter concludes with Josiah’s untimely death in battle and the rapid spiritual decline of Judah under subsequent kings, foreshadowing the Babylonian exile.

This chapter underscores the themes of repentance, covenant renewal, and the centrality of God’s Word. It also reminds readers of the seriousness of sin and the necessity of godly leadership in times of moral and spiritual decay. Josiah’s faithful response to God’s Word serves as a model of obedience, even in the face of inevitable judgment.

Historical and Literary Context

Historical Context:

Josiah reigned over Judah from 640–609 BC. His reforms occurred during a period of political transition in the ancient Near East, as the Assyrian Empire weakened and Babylon rose to power. Josiah likely took advantage of Assyria’s decline to consolidate his control over parts of the former northern kingdom of Israel, as evidenced by his reforms in those regions.

The rediscovery of the Book of the Law, likely a portion of Deuteronomy, revealed how far Judah had strayed from God’s commands. Josiah’s zeal for reform contrasts sharply with the idolatry and apostasy that characterized the reigns of his predecessors. His efforts to eradicate idolatry align with the covenantal stipulations in Deuteronomy, which called for exclusive worship of Yahweh and the removal of pagan practices from the land.

Literary Insights:

This chapter is part of the Deuteronomistic History, which evaluates Israel’s kings based on their adherence to God’s covenant. Josiah is praised as the most faithful king in Judah’s history, surpassing even Hezekiah in his efforts to lead the nation back to God. The narrative’s detailed account of Josiah’s reforms emphasizes their thoroughness and alignment with the commands of the Law.

The chapter also foreshadows the inevitability of God’s judgment on Judah, despite Josiah’s faithfulness. This tension between human obedience and divine justice reflects the broader themes of Deuteronomy, where blessings and curses are tied to covenant faithfulness.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

1. The Centrality of God’s Word in Revival:
   • The rediscovery of the Book of the Law is the catalyst for Josiah’s reforms. Scripture reveals the truth about God’s character, His expectations for His people, and the consequences of disobedience.
   • Application: Believers must prioritize Scripture as the foundation of their faith, allowing it to guide their lives and bring about personal and communal renewal.
2. The Necessity of Covenant Renewal:
   • Josiah gathers the people to renew their covenant with the Lord, reaffirming their commitment to obey His commands. This act of collective repentance reflects the importance of renewing one’s relationship with God after a period of disobedience.
   • Application: Christians are called to regularly examine their hearts, confess sin, and renew their commitment to live in obedience to God.
3. The Holiness of God and the Need for Exclusive Worship:
   • Josiah’s destruction of idols, altars, and pagan shrines underscores the biblical truth that God demands exclusive worship. Idolatry, in any form, is incompatible with a relationship with the holy God.
   • Application: Modern believers must identify and remove anything in their lives that competes with their devotion to God, whether it be material possessions, relationships, or personal ambitions.
4. The Impact of Godly Leadership:
   • Josiah’s faithfulness and zeal for reform demonstrate the profound influence a godly leader can have on a nation. His leadership inspires collective repentance and a return to God’s ways.
   • Application: Christians in leadership roles are called to lead by example, encouraging others to pursue righteousness and faithfulness to God.
5. The Seriousness of Sin and the Certainty of Judgment:
   • Despite Josiah’s reforms, God’s judgment on Judah for its persistent rebellion remains inevitable. This highlights the seriousness of sin and its consequences, as well as the justice of God in holding His people accountable.
   • Application: Believers are reminded to take sin seriously and to live in obedience, trusting in Christ’s atoning sacrifice for forgiveness.
6. The Importance of Worship and Remembrance:
   • Josiah’s reinstitution of the Passover reflects the importance of worship and remembrance in maintaining a vibrant relationship with God. The Passover commemorates God’s redemptive acts and His faithfulness to His covenant.
   • Application: Christians are called to regularly worship and remember God’s saving work, particularly through practices such as communion, prayer, and corporate worship.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis

Verses 1-3: Josiah Renews the Covenant

1 Then the king called together all the elders of Judah and Jerusalem.
2 He went up to the temple of the Lord with the people of Judah, the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the priests and the prophets—all the people from the least to the greatest. He read in their hearing all the words of the Book of the Covenant, which had been found in the temple of the Lord.
3 The king stood by the pillar and renewed the covenant in the presence of the Lord—to follow the Lord and keep his commands, statutes and decrees with all his heart and all his soul, thus confirming the words of the covenant written in this book. Then all the people pledged themselves to the covenant.

• Explanation:
  Josiah leads the nation in covenant renewal, demonstrating his commitment to obey God’s Word. He gathers representatives from every social class to hear the Law, highlighting the collective responsibility of the entire community to live in obedience. Josiah’s public reading of the Book of the Law mirrors Moses’ instructions in Deuteronomy for kings to lead the people in God’s ways.
• Doctrinal Insight:
  Covenant renewal reflects a return to God’s original purposes for His people. It emphasizes the relational aspect of the covenant, requiring wholehearted devotion (Deuteronomy 6:5). Josiah’s actions demonstrate that spiritual revival begins with a return to God’s Word.
• Cross-References:
• Deuteronomy 31:10-13: Public reading of the Law during the Feast of Tabernacles.
• Joshua 24:14-15: Covenant renewal at Shechem under Joshua’s leadership.
• Application:
  Believers are called to regularly recommit their lives to God, reflecting on His Word and aligning their hearts with His commands. Personal and corporate worship are vital to maintaining a strong relationship with God.

Verses 4-14: Josiah’s Reforms Against Idolatry

4 The king ordered Hilkiah the high priest, the priests next in rank and the doorkeepers to remove from the temple of the Lord all the articles made for Baal and Asherah and all the starry hosts. He burned them outside Jerusalem in the fields of the Kidron Valley and took the ashes to Bethel.
(Additional verses describe similar actions, such as defiling pagan altars, removing false priests, and tearing down high places.)

• Explanation:
  Josiah’s reforms focus on eradicating idolatry from Judah and even parts of the former northern kingdom. His actions are thorough and decisive, including the removal and destruction of objects associated with pagan worship, the defilement of altars, and the dismissal of priests who served idols. These reforms align with the commands in Deuteronomy to destroy idolatrous practices and purify the land.
• Doctrinal Insight:
  Idolatry is a direct violation of God’s command to worship Him alone (Exodus 20:3-5). Josiah’s reforms emphasize the holiness of God and the need for His people to be set apart from pagan influences. This cleansing points to the ongoing spiritual battle against sin in the lives of believers.
• Cross-References:
• Deuteronomy 7:5-6: Instructions to destroy idols and altars in the Promised Land.
• 1 Corinthians 10:14: A New Testament warning to flee idolatry.
• Application:
  Christians must actively identify and remove anything in their lives that competes with God for their devotion. This could include material possessions, relationships, or habits that hinder spiritual growth.

Verses 15-20: Reforms in the Northern Kingdom

15 Even the altar at Bethel, the high place made by Jeroboam son of Nebat, who had caused Israel to sin—even that altar and high place he demolished. He burned the high place and ground it to powder, and burned the Asherah pole also.
(Verses 16-20 describe further reforms in the northern regions, including the defilement of graves associated with pagan worship.)

• Explanation:
  Josiah extends his reforms into the former northern kingdom, demonstrating his zeal for restoring true worship throughout the land once promised to Israel. His actions fulfill the prophecy of 1 Kings 13:2 regarding the destruction of Jeroboam’s altar at Bethel.
• Doctrinal Insight:
  Josiah’s reforms reflect God’s command to eliminate all vestiges of idolatry and restore holiness to the land. His actions show that obedience to God’s Word must be comprehensive, leaving no room for compromise.
• Cross-References:
• 1 Kings 13:1-2: The prophecy about the altar at Bethel.
• Romans 12:1-2: A call for believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.
• Application:
  Believers are reminded to pursue holiness in every area of life, allowing no room for sin or compromise in their devotion to God.

Verses 21-23: Reinstitution of the Passover

21 The king gave this order to all the people: “Celebrate the Passover to the Lord your God, as it is written in this Book of the Covenant.”
22 Neither in the days of the judges who led Israel nor in the days of the kings of Israel and the kings of Judah had any such Passover been observed.
23 But in the eighteenth year of King Josiah, this Passover was celebrated to the Lord in Jerusalem.

• Explanation:
  Josiah restores the Passover celebration, emphasizing obedience to God’s commands and the importance of remembering His redemptive acts. The text highlights the magnitude of this Passover, marking it as the most faithful observance in generations.
• Doctrinal Insight:
  The Passover points to God’s deliverance of His people from Egypt and foreshadows Christ, the ultimate Passover Lamb who delivers believers from sin (1 Corinthians 5:7). Worship and remembrance are central to maintaining a relationship with God.
• Cross-References:
• Exodus 12:24-27: Instructions for the Passover as a lasting ordinance.
• Luke 22:19-20: Jesus institutes the Lord’s Supper, fulfilling the Passover.
• Application:
  Believers are called to regularly remember God’s redemptive work, particularly through practices such as communion and personal reflection on His faithfulness.

Verses 24-27: The Inevitability of Judgment

24 Furthermore, Josiah got rid of the mediums and spiritists, the household gods, the idols and all the other detestable things seen in Judah and Jerusalem. This he did to fulfill the requirements of the Law written in the book that Hilkiah the priest had discovered in the temple of the Lord.
25 Neither before nor after Josiah was there a king like him who turned to the Lord as he did—with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his strength, in accordance with all the Law of Moses.
26 Nevertheless, the Lord did not turn away from the heat of his fierce anger, which burned against Judah because of all that Manasseh had done to arouse his anger.

• Explanation:
  Despite Josiah’s unparalleled faithfulness, God’s judgment on Judah for its persistent rebellion remains certain. This tension highlights the gravity of sin and the justice of God’s judgment, even when individuals repent.
• Doctrinal Insight:
  God’s holiness demands that sin be judged. While repentance brings personal restoration, the broader consequences of sin often remain. This points to the necessity of Christ’s atonement, which fully satisfies God’s justice.
• Cross-References:
• Exodus 34:6-7: God’s nature as both merciful and just.
• Romans 6:23: The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus.
• Application:
  Christians are reminded to take sin seriously and trust in Christ’s atonement as the only solution to humanity’s sin problem.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

Christ as the Ultimate King and Fulfillment of the Law

2 Kings 23 demonstrates the zeal of Josiah, a king wholly devoted to God, who sought to restore true worship and obedience among his people. Josiah’s leadership foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate King, who fulfills the Law perfectly (Matthew 5:17) and leads His people into true worship and lasting redemption. While Josiah’s reforms brought temporary renewal, only Christ’s reign can bring eternal transformation of the heart (Jeremiah 31:33).

• Christ as the Passover Lamb:
  Josiah’s reinstitution of the Passover points forward to Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). The Passover, a celebration of God’s deliverance from Egypt, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ’s sacrifice, which brings deliverance from sin and death (1 Corinthians 5:7).
• Christ’s Victory Over Idolatry:
  Josiah’s destruction of idols symbolizes Christ’s mission to cleanse the hearts of His people from spiritual idolatry. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus triumphs over sin, Satan, and false worship, enabling believers to worship God in spirit and truth (John 4:24).

The Broader Redemptive Story

Josiah’s reforms highlight the need for a Savior who can fully and permanently restore humanity’s relationship with God. While Josiah removed external idols, Jesus addresses the root of idolatry by transforming the heart. His atoning work fulfills God’s redemptive plan, ensuring that sin and judgment do not have the final word (Romans 8:1-2).

Connection to the Father

The Father’s Holiness and Justice

• The chapter underscores the holiness of God, who requires exclusive worship and obedience. The judgment pronounced against Judah reflects the Father’s intolerance of sin and His commitment to uphold justice (Habakkuk 1:13). Josiah’s reforms, inspired by the rediscovered Book of the Law, affirm the Father’s desire for His people to live in covenant faithfulness.
• The Father’s Sovereignty:
  Despite Judah’s rebellion, God’s sovereignty ensures the fulfillment of His redemptive purposes. Josiah’s reforms, though temporary, align with the Father’s plan to preserve a remnant through whom the Messiah would come (Isaiah 11:1-5).

The Father’s Faithfulness to His Covenant

• Even in the face of judgment, the Father remains faithful to His covenant. Josiah’s reforms and the reinstitution of the Passover demonstrate God’s ongoing commitment to His people, pointing forward to the New Covenant established through Jesus Christ (Luke 22:20).

Connection to the Holy Spirit

• The Spirit’s Role in Conviction and Renewal: Although the Holy Spirit is not explicitly mentioned in this chapter, His influence is evident in the conviction brought about by the rediscovery of the Book of the Law. The Spirit works through Scripture to illuminate God’s truth and convict hearts of sin (John 16:8).
• The Spirit’s Role in Transforming Worship: Josiah’s efforts to restore proper worship foreshadow the Spirit’s work in empowering believers to worship God authentically. Jesus promises that true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, a reality made possible through the Holy Spirit (John 4:23-24).
• The Spirit’s Work in Empowering Leaders: Josiah’s bold leadership and zeal for reform reflect the Spirit’s enabling power. In the New Testament, the Spirit equips believers to lead others toward faithfulness and obedience to God (Acts 1:8).

Connection to God’s Love

• God’s Love in Preserving His Word: The rediscovery of the Book of the Law reveals God’s love in preserving His Word for His people, even in times of spiritual decline. Scripture is a gift of God’s love, guiding His people toward repentance and restoration.
• God’s Love in Extending Patience and Mercy: Despite Judah’s persistent sin, God delays judgment, giving Josiah and the nation an opportunity to repent. This reflects God’s patient love, as He desires that none should perish but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).
• God’s Love in Redemption and Restoration: While Josiah’s reforms could not prevent Judah’s judgment, they point to God’s ultimate plan of redemption through Jesus Christ. God’s love is fully revealed in sending His Son to bear the penalty for sin and restore humanity to Himself (John 3:16). The chapter reminds us that God’s justice and love work together to accomplish His redemptive purposes.

Sermon Outline and Flow

Title: “Revival Through God’s Word: Lessons from Josiah’s Reforms”

Introduction

• Hook/Illustration:
  Share a story of rediscovery, such as an old family heirloom or a forgotten treasure, and how it brought renewed joy or meaning. Connect this to the rediscovery of the Book of the Law in Josiah’s time, which sparked one of the greatest spiritual revivals in Judah’s history.
• Big Idea:
  Revival begins with God’s Word, leading to repentance, reform, and renewed worship. Josiah’s story challenges us to rediscover Scripture’s transformative power in our own lives and communities.
• Transition:
  In 2 Kings 23, we see three key elements of spiritual renewal: a return to God’s Word, the removal of sin, and the restoration of proper worship.

Main Points

1. Revival Begins with a Return to God’s Word (2 Kings 23:1-3)

• Explanation:
  Josiah gathers the people, reads the Book of the Law aloud, and leads them in covenant renewal. This act emphasizes the centrality of Scripture in revival.
• Illustration:
  Compare the rediscovery of the Book of the Law to someone finding a lost diary or map that offers life-changing guidance. Just as such a find would spark action, so does God’s Word guide believers to life and truth.
• Application:
• Prioritize reading and meditating on Scripture daily.
• Share God’s Word with others, making it a foundation in your family and community.
• Transition:
  Returning to God’s Word reveals areas of sin and idolatry that must be addressed, leading to the next step: repentance and reform.

2. Revival Requires Removing Sin and Idolatry (2 Kings 23:4-14)

• Explanation:
  Josiah’s reforms are thorough and uncompromising. He removes idols, defiles pagan altars, and restores the temple to its proper purpose. These actions reflect a heart fully devoted to God and a refusal to tolerate sin.
• Illustration:
  Use the analogy of cleaning out a cluttered attic or garage: just as clearing out junk requires effort and determination, so does removing sin and idols from our lives.
• Application:
• Examine your heart and identify modern “idols” that compete with God for your devotion (e.g., materialism, relationships, habits).
• Take practical steps to remove these distractions, such as setting boundaries, seeking accountability, or reprioritizing your time and resources.
• Transition:
  As sin is removed, proper worship is restored, leading to a deeper relationship with God.

3. Revival Restores Proper Worship and Remembrance (2 Kings 23:21-23)

• Explanation:
  Josiah reinstitutes the Passover, a celebration that had been neglected for generations. This act of worship reminds the people of God’s faithfulness and redemptive power, drawing their hearts back to Him.
• Illustration:
  Share a personal story or example of how a meaningful worship experience—such as a communion service or a time of reflection—rekindled your love for God and renewed your faith.
• Application:
• Participate in regular worship and remembrance, such as taking communion, practicing daily prayer, and reflecting on God’s faithfulness.
• Encourage your family or church community to celebrate God’s redemptive work together, fostering unity and renewal.
• Transition:
  Josiah’s story challenges us to apply these lessons in our lives, living faithfully and leading others toward revival.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

• Recap of Main Points:
• Revival begins with a return to God’s Word.
• Revival requires removing sin and idolatry.
• Revival restores proper worship and remembrance.
• Final Illustration:
  Share the story of a historical revival, such as the Great Awakening, highlighting how rediscovering God’s Word transformed communities. Connect this to the potential for spiritual renewal in our lives today.
• Call to Action:
• Rediscover the power of God’s Word in your daily life. Spend time reading and reflecting on Scripture.
• Identify areas of sin or distraction in your life and commit to removing them, trusting God’s help through prayer and accountability.
• Renew your commitment to worship and remember God’s faithfulness through regular church participation and personal devotion.

Illustrations and Examples

1. Rediscovery and Renewal:
   Share a real-life story of someone finding a long-lost family Bible or document, highlighting its impact. Relate this to the rediscovery of the Book of the Law and its power to transform lives.
2. Removing Obstacles to Growth:
   Use the analogy of pruning a tree to explain how removing “dead branches” (sin and distractions) allows for healthy growth and fruitfulness, mirroring Josiah’s reforms.
3. The Power of Remembrance:
   Share an example of how commemorative events, such as national holidays or anniversaries, help people remember and reconnect with important values. Relate this to Josiah’s reinstitution of the Passover.

Application for Today’s Christian

1. Daily Engagement with Scripture:
   • Commit to reading God’s Word daily. Use tools such as Bible reading plans, devotionals, or group studies to deepen your understanding.
   • Share Scripture with your family, creating opportunities for collective reflection and application.
2. Removing Idols and Hindrances:
   • Identify anything that competes with God for your attention and affection, such as unhealthy habits, materialism, or misplaced priorities.
   • Take tangible steps to remove these distractions, seeking help from trusted friends or mentors if needed.
3. Participating in Worship and Community:
   • Make worship a priority by attending church regularly, participating in small groups, and practicing personal prayer and reflection.
   • Celebrate God’s faithfulness through special observances, such as communion or family worship nights, fostering a spirit of gratitude and remembrance.
4. Leading Others Toward Renewal:
   • Be a leader in your sphere of influence by modeling obedience to God’s Word and encouraging others to follow Him.
   • Pray for revival in your home, church, and community, trusting God to bring about transformation through His Spirit.

Reflection Questions

1. How does Josiah’s response to the rediscovery of the Book of the Law challenge your current approach to Scripture?
2. Are there areas in your life where you need to reprioritize God’s Word? How can you make Scripture more central to your daily routine?
3. Josiah took decisive action to remove idols and sin from Judah. What “idols” or distractions might be present in your own life?
4. What practical steps can you take this week to remove those distractions and refocus on God?
5. Josiah led the entire nation in covenant renewal and the celebration of the Passover. How can you contribute to spiritual renewal in your church or community?
6. How does participating in corporate worship and practices like communion help you stay connected to God’s work in your life and the world?