Josiah's Reformation: Rediscovering God's Word and Renewing Our Faith

Josiah's reformation is a compelling biblical account of religious renewal and revival found primarily in the Old Testament, specifically in **2 Kings 22-23** and **2 Chronicles 34-35**. This story offers many themes for a sermon, such as the rediscovery of God's Word, repentance, the importance of godly leadership, and the eradication of idolatry. Here is an outline for a sermon based on Josiah’s reformation of religion:

### Sermon Title: "Josiah's Reformation: Rediscovering God's Word and Renewing Our Faith"

#### **Scripture Reading:** 2 Kings 22:1-20, 2 Kings 23:1-25; 2 Chronicles 34:1-33

### Introduction

- **Context:** Josiah became king of Judah at the age of 8, during a time of spiritual decline and rampant idolatry in the nation.

- **Key Moment:** At the age of 26, Josiah initiated a temple restoration project, during which the Book of the Law (likely Deuteronomy) was found, sparking a nationwide spiritual revival.

**Main Points:**

### 1. **The Rediscovery of God's Word (2 Kings 22:8-13)**

- **Neglect of the Scriptures:** The Book of the Law had been lost and forgotten, signifying how far the people had strayed from God's teachings.

- **The Power of God's Word:** When Hilkiah the high priest found the book, and it was read to King Josiah, he tore his robes in despair. This reaction demonstrated the impact of God's Word when it is truly heard and understood.

- **Application:** We, too, can become distant from God's Word, treating it as a mere book rather than the living Word. How often do we neglect the Bible in our daily lives?

- **Call to Action:** We must **rediscover** the Scriptures, dedicating time to read, meditate, and apply God's Word.

### 2. **Repentance and Heartfelt Response (2 Kings 22:11, 19-20)**

- **Josiah's Reaction:** Upon hearing the Book of the Law, Josiah immediately showed signs of true repentance—tearing his clothes, a sign of deep sorrow and humility.

- **Seeking God’s Guidance:** He sent his officials to inquire of the Lord, demonstrating his desire to understand and align with God's will.

- **God's Mercy:** Because of Josiah's genuine repentance, God showed mercy to him, delaying the judgment that was coming upon Judah.

- **Application:** Genuine repentance involves a heartfelt acknowledgment of our sins and a desire to turn back to God. It is not just about feeling sorry but about changing our ways.

### 3. **The Cleansing of Idolatry (2 Kings 23:4-20)**

- **Destroying Idols:** Josiah did not stop at hearing the Word; he took radical action. He ordered the destruction of idols, pagan altars, and high places throughout Judah.

- **National Reformation:** Josiah led a comprehensive reform, removing all traces of idolatry, and reinstated the worship of Yahweh. He burned the Asherah poles, broke down the altars of Baal, and eradicated practices that had led the nation astray.

- **Application:** What idols exist in our lives today? These may not be physical idols, but anything that takes the place of God—materialism, pride, self-reliance, or other worldly pursuits.

- **Call to Action:** We are called to destroy the idols in our hearts and return to wholehearted worship of God.

### 4. **Renewal of the Covenant and Worship (2 Kings 23:21-23; 2 Chronicles 35:1-19)**

- **Renewal of the Covenant:** Josiah led the people in renewing their covenant with God, pledging to follow His commands, statutes, and decrees with all their heart and soul.

- **Celebration of the Passover:** Josiah reinstated the celebration of the Passover, an act of obedience and a powerful reminder of God’s deliverance.

- **Application:** Renewal of our commitment to God involves a return to sincere worship and obedience. It is a recommitment to live according to His Word and celebrate His faithfulness.

- **Call to Action:** Let us renew our dedication to God, aligning our lives with His teachings and faithfully participating in communal worship and sacraments.

### 5. **The Legacy of Josiah’s Reformation (2 Kings 23:25)**

- **Josiah’s Faithfulness:** The Bible records that there was no king like Josiah, who turned to the Lord with all his heart, soul, and strength, in accordance with the Law of Moses.

- **Short-lived Reform:** Despite Josiah's reforms, the changes in the nation were temporary because the people’s hearts were not fully changed. After Josiah's death, the nation quickly returned to its old ways, leading to the eventual exile.

- **Application:** True reformation requires not just external changes but a transformation of the heart. Without a deep, personal commitment to God, changes in behavior will be temporary.

- **Call to Action:** Let us strive for a lasting transformation, inviting the Holy Spirit to work in our hearts and bring about a true, enduring change.

### **Conclusion**

- **Challenge:** Like Josiah, we are called to be reformers in our own lives and communities. It begins with rediscovering God's Word, responding in repentance, removing the idols of our hearts, and renewing our commitment to follow God wholeheartedly.

- **Prayer:** Seek God's help in guiding us toward true reformation, so that our lives may reflect His will and glory.

### **Closing Hymn or Prayer:**

- Consider closing with a hymn that emphasizes surrender, repentance, or renewal, such as "Take My Life and Let It Be" or "Refiner's Fire."

This sermon structure can serve as a foundation for preaching on the theme of spiritual renewal and the power of God's Word in transforming both individual lives and entire communities.