Through the Word in 2020 #85 - July 30 / 2 Kings in Contrast

Today’s edition of Through the Word in 2020 takes us to Luke 9:1–9; 2 Thessalonians 1:1–2; 2 Chronicles 33:10–34:33 and Psalm 117:1–2. And 2 Chronicles introduces us to a most astounding account of God’s Grace in the matter of wicked King Manasseh’s humbling of himself, and then of the rise and spectacle of godly King Josiah. One would think that is the contrast eluded to in today’s title. But it’s not. Instead it’s the contrast between kings Hezekiah and Josiah. Both were godly men in the main, but responding very differently in nearly identical circumstances.

Now we need to note that both men sought the Lord. Both were reformers in their day. Both did much to rid Judah of idolatry. Both labored much to bring the nation back to a right relationship to and worship of - the One True God. So far, so good. The comparison very encouraging.

But.

You will remember when we looked at Hezekiah’s reign, that there came a time when God told him (2 gs 20) that there would be judgment upon Judah, but that it would be delayed until after Hezekiah died. And his response was: “The word of the Lord…is good. For he thought, “Why not, if there will be peace and security in my days?” That appears to be the extent of his consideration at that point. Judgment will come. But I won’t see it. So...

Fast forward a few generations to the reign of Josiah. He too got the news that God had determined to Judge Judah for its sins. But his response is so markedly different than his progenitor’s. He gets the news that God has determined to bring disaster upon Judah for its sins - especially for those of his immediate predecessor Manasseh. And, he also is told he will die before it comes on the nation and he won’t see it.

Here is the contrast: Where Hezekiah put things into cruise control at the Word of the Lord, Josiah took the word as an impetus to step up his reforms and take them as far as he possibly could while he had the time and opportunity. He looked past how it would effect him personally, to what could be done for those around him until the day of judgement finally arrived.

God has determined that judgment is to poured out upon this world. Sin will be fully and finally dealt with. And you and I can sit back like Hezekiah and wait for it to happen - and make no mistake - it WILL happen. Or we can be like Josiah and engage the time we have left calling upon God for revival, growing in grace, proclaiming the Gospel, dying to sin and building “up one another in the most holy faith.”

No, revival will not prevent the coming judgment. We must divest ourselves of that thought. Antichrist will come no matter what. Kingdoms (civilizations and cultures) will rise and fall. “Evil people and imposters will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.” (2 Tim. 3:13)

But as for us, we are to continue in what we have learned and firmly believed through the Scriptures. Continuing to pursue Christ. To grow in His image and character. To provide for the proclamation of the Gospel and the public worship of God until He comes. To seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness.

Take heart Christian - let us still be about His business. There are still brands which need to be plucked from the fire.

I’m Reid Ferguson - and God willing, we’ll be back tomorrow.