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2 Kings 22

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‹ Chapter 21 2 Kings — All Chapters Chapter 23 ›

1 Josiah was eight years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem thirty-one years. His mother’s name was Jedidah daughter of Adaiah; she was from Bozkath. 2 And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD and walked in all the ways of his father David; he did not turn aside to the right or to the left. 3 Now in the eighteenth year of his reign, King Josiah sent the scribe, Shaphan son of Azaliah, the son of Meshullam, to the house of the LORD, saying, 4 “Go up to Hilkiah the high priest and have him count the money that has been brought into the house of the LORD, which the doorkeepers have collected from the people. 5 And let them deliver it into the hands of the supervisors of those doing the work on the house of the LORD, who in turn are to give it to the workmen repairing the damages to the house of the LORD— 6 to the carpenters, builders, and masons—to buy timber and dressed stone to repair the temple. 7 But they need not account for the money put into their hands, since they work with integrity." 8 Then Hilkiah the high priest said to Shaphan the scribe, “I have found the Book of the Law in the house of the LORD!” And he gave it to Shaphan, who read it. 9 And Shaphan the scribe went to the king and reported, “Your servants have paid out the money that was found in the temple and have put it into the hands of the workers and supervisors of the house of the LORD." 10 Moreover, Shaphan the scribe told the king, “Hilkiah the priest has given me a book.” And Shaphan read it in the presence of the king. 11 When the king heard the words of the Book of the Law, he tore his clothes 12 and commanded Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam son of Shaphan, Achbor son of Micaiah, Shaphan the scribe, and Asaiah the servant of the king: 13 “Go and inquire of the LORD for me, for the people, and for all Judah concerning the words in this book that has been found. For great is the wrath of the LORD that burns against us because our fathers have not obeyed the words of this book by doing all that is written about us." 14 So Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam, Achbor, Shaphan, and Asaiah went and spoke to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, the keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the Second District. 15 And Huldah said to them, “This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘Tell the man who sent you 16 that this is what the LORD says: I am about to bring calamity on this place and on its people, according to all the words of the book that the king of Judah has read, 17 because they have forsaken Me and burned incense to other gods, that they might provoke Me to anger with all the works of their hands. My wrath will be kindled against this place and will not be quenched.’ 18 But as for the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of the LORD, tell him that this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘As for the words that you heard, 19 because your heart was tender and you humbled yourself before the LORD when you heard what I spoke against this place and against its people, that they would become a desolation and a curse, and because you have torn your clothes and wept before Me, I have heard you,’ declares the LORD. 20 ‘Therefore I will indeed gather you to your fathers, and you will be gathered to your grave in peace. Your eyes will not see all the calamity that I will bring on this place.’” So they brought her answer back to the king.

‹ Chapter 21 2 Kings — All Chapters Chapter 23 ›

Study Notes — 2 Kings 22

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Chapter Summary

The chapter begins with the introduction of King Josiah, who became king at the age of eight and reigned for thirty-one years. During his reign, he sought to follow God and remove the idolatrous practices that had become prevalent in Judah. In 2 Kings 22:8, the high priest Hilkiah discovered the Book of the Law in the temple, which led to a series of events that resulted in the reform of Judah and the restoration of the true worship of God. The chapter also mentions the prophetess Huldah, who delivered a message from God to King Josiah, warning him of the impending judgment on Judah due to their disobedience, as seen in 2 Kings 22:16-17. Despite this warning, King Josiah continued to seek God and follow His commands, leading to a period of revival and reform in Judah.

Context for the Chapter

This chapter is part of the larger narrative of the book of 2 Kings, which tells the story of the kings of Israel and Judah. The chapter is set during the reign of King Josiah, who was a king of Judah, and it highlights his efforts to seek God and follow His commands. The chapter is also part of the larger biblical narrative, which emphasizes the importance of seeking God and following His commands. As seen in 2 Kings 22:1, King Josiah's reign is placed in the context of the kings of Israel and Judah, demonstrating the importance of understanding the historical context of the chapter.

Heart Application

The chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking God and following His commands. As believers, we are called to seek God with all our hearts and to follow His commands, just like King Josiah. We are also called to repent and seek God's forgiveness when we fail, just like the people of Judah did during the time of King Josiah. As seen in 2 Kings 22:2, King Josiah's commitment to God is evident in his actions, demonstrating a heart that seeks to please God.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

This chapter tells the story of King Josiah, who became king at the age of eight and reigned for thirty-one years. During his reign, he sought to follow God and remove the idolatrous practices that had become prevalent in Judah. The chapter highlights the importance of seeking God and following His commands, and it emphasizes the need for repentance and seeking God's forgiveness. As seen in 2 Kings 22:8, the discovery of the Book of the Law and the subsequent reform of Judah point to the idea that God's Word has the power to transform and redeem.

Voices from the Church

“The Word of God is the sword of the Spirit, and it is the instrument by which we are to fight against the enemies of our souls. Let us therefore seek to understand it, and to obey its commands.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The law of God is a mirror that shows us our sins, and it is also a guide that directs us to the path of righteousness. Let us therefore seek to understand it, and to follow its teachings.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

  1. Introduction to King Josiah (2 Kings 22:1-2) — The chapter introduces King Josiah, who became king at the age of eight and reigned for thirty-one years. It highlights his commitment to following God and his determination to do what is right in God's eyes, as seen in 2 Kings 22:2.
  2. The Discovery of the Book of the Law (2 Kings 22:3-10) — The chapter tells the story of the discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple by the high priest Hilkiah. It highlights the importance of seeking God and following His commands, and it emphasizes the need for repentance and seeking God's forgiveness, as seen in 2 Kings 22:8.
  3. The Prophetess Huldah's Message (2 Kings 22:11-20) — The chapter tells the story of the prophetess Huldah, who delivered a message from God to King Josiah. The message warns of the impending judgment on Judah due to their disobedience, and it emphasizes the importance of seeking God and following His commands, as seen in 2 Kings 22:16-17.
  4. King Josiah's Response (2 Kings 22:21-23:30) — The chapter tells the story of King Josiah's response to the prophetess Huldah's message. It highlights his commitment to seeking God and following His commands, and it emphasizes the importance of repentance and seeking God's forgiveness, as seen in 2 Kings 22:21.
  5. Conclusion (2 Kings 23:31-35) — The chapter concludes with a summary of King Josiah's reign and his efforts to seek God and follow His commands. It highlights the importance of seeking God and following His commands, and it emphasizes the need for repentance and seeking God's forgiveness, as seen in 2 Kings 23:31-35.

Core Doctrines

The Importance of Seeking God
The chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking God and following His commands. This doctrine is central to the Christian faith, and it is emphasized throughout the Bible, as seen in 2 Kings 22:2.
The Power of God's Word
The chapter highlights the power of God's Word to transform and redeem. This doctrine is central to the Christian faith, and it is emphasized throughout the Bible, as seen in 2 Kings 22:8.
The Need for Repentance
The chapter emphasizes the need for repentance and seeking God's forgiveness. This doctrine is central to the Christian faith, and it is emphasized throughout the Bible, as seen in 2 Kings 22:16-17.
The Importance of Obedience
The chapter highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands. This doctrine is central to the Christian faith, and it is emphasized throughout the Bible, as seen in 2 Kings 22:2.

Lessons from 2 Kings 22

  1. The Importance of Seeking God — The chapter teaches us that seeking God and following His commands is essential for living a life that is pleasing to Him, as seen in 2 Kings 22:2.
  2. The Power of God's Word — The chapter teaches us that God's Word has the power to transform and redeem, and that it is essential for guiding us on the path of righteousness, as seen in 2 Kings 22:8.
  3. The Need for Repentance — The chapter teaches us that repentance and seeking God's forgiveness are essential for restoring our relationship with God, as seen in 2 Kings 22:16-17.
  4. The Importance of Obedience — The chapter teaches us that obedience to God's commands is essential for living a life that is pleasing to Him, as seen in 2 Kings 22:2.
  5. The Importance of Leadership — The chapter teaches us that leaders have a responsibility to seek God and follow His commands, and to lead others in doing the same, as seen in 2 Kings 22:1-2.

Themes from 2 Kings 22

  1. Revival and Reform — The chapter highlights the importance of seeking God and following His commands, and it emphasizes the need for repentance and seeking God's forgiveness.
  2. The Power of God's Word — The chapter teaches us that God's Word has the power to transform and redeem, and that it is essential for guiding us on the path of righteousness.
  3. The Importance of Obedience — The chapter emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands, and it teaches us that obedience is essential for living a life that is pleasing to Him.
  4. The Need for Repentance — The chapter teaches us that repentance and seeking God's forgiveness are essential for restoring our relationship with God.
  5. The Importance of Leadership — The chapter teaches us that leaders have a responsibility to seek God and follow His commands, and to lead others in doing the same.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What can we learn from King Josiah's commitment to seeking God and following His commands?
  2. How does the discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple relate to the power of God's Word to transform and redeem?
  3. What does the prophetess Huldah's message to King Josiah teach us about the importance of repentance and seeking God's forgiveness?
  4. How does King Josiah's response to the prophetess Huldah's message demonstrate his commitment to seeking God and following His commands?
  5. What can we learn from the chapter about the importance of obedience to God's commands?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. Introduction to King Josiah (2 Kings 22:1-2)

22:1 The chapter introduces King Josiah, who became king at the age of eight and reigned for thirty-one years.
22:2 The chapter highlights King Josiah's commitment to following God and his determination to do what is right in God's eyes.

2. The Discovery of the Book of the Law (2 Kings 22:3-10)

22:3 The chapter tells the story of the discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple by the high priest Hilkiah.
22:8 The chapter highlights the importance of seeking God and following His commands, and it emphasizes the need for repentance and seeking God's forgiveness.

3. The Prophetess Huldah's Message (2 Kings 22:11-20)

22:11 The chapter tells the story of the prophetess Huldah, who delivered a message from God to King Josiah.
22:16 The message warns of the impending judgment on Judah due to their disobedience, and it emphasizes the importance of seeking God and following His commands.

4. King Josiah's Response (2 Kings 22:21-23:30)

22:21 The chapter tells the story of King Josiah's response to the prophetess Huldah's message.
23:1 The chapter highlights King Josiah's commitment to seeking God and following His commands, and it emphasizes the importance of repentance and seeking God's forgiveness.

5. Conclusion (2 Kings 23:31-35)

23:31 The chapter concludes with a summary of King Josiah's reign and his efforts to seek God and follow His commands.
23:35 The chapter highlights the importance of seeking God and following His commands, and it emphasizes the need for repentance and seeking God's forgiveness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple?

The discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple highlights the importance of seeking God and following His commands, and it emphasizes the need for repentance and seeking God's forgiveness, as seen in 2 Kings 22:8.

What does the prophetess Huldah's message to King Josiah teach us?

The prophetess Huldah's message to King Josiah warns of the impending judgment on Judah due to their disobedience, and it emphasizes the importance of seeking God and following His commands, as seen in 2 Kings 22:16-17.

How does King Josiah's response to the prophetess Huldah's message demonstrate his commitment to seeking God and following His commands?

King Josiah's response to the prophetess Huldah's message demonstrates his commitment to seeking God and following His commands, and it emphasizes the importance of repentance and seeking God's forgiveness, as seen in 2 Kings 22:21.

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 2 Kings 22:8 → Deuteronomy 31:24-26 The discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple is reminiscent of Moses' command to the Levites to place the Book of the Law beside the Ark of the Covenant, as seen in Deuteronomy 31:24-26.
2 2 Kings 22:11 → 2 Chronicles 34:22-28 The story of the prophetess Huldah's message to King Josiah is also told in 2 Chronicles 34:22-28, highlighting the importance of seeking God and following His commands.
3 2 Kings 22:16 → Jeremiah 25:1-14 The warning of impending judgment on Judah due to their disobedience is similar to the message of Jeremiah 25:1-14, which emphasizes the importance of repentance and seeking God's forgiveness.
4 2 Kings 22:21 → Psalm 119:1-8 King Josiah's response to the prophetess Huldah's message demonstrates his commitment to seeking God and following His commands, which is similar to the psalmist's commitment to following God's commands in Psalm 119:1-8.
5 2 Kings 22:8 → Hebrews 4:12 The discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple highlights the power of God's Word to transform and redeem, which is also emphasized in Hebrews 4:12.
6 2 Kings 22:16 → Matthew 4:4 The warning of impending judgment on Judah due to their disobedience is reminiscent of Jesus' teaching on the importance of obeying God's commands, as seen in Matthew 4:4.
7 2 Kings 22:21 → John 14:15 King Josiah's response to the prophetess Huldah's message demonstrates his commitment to seeking God and following His commands, which is similar to Jesus' teaching on the importance of obeying God's commands in John 14:15.
8 2 Kings 22:8 → 2 Timothy 3:16-17 The discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple highlights the importance of seeking God and following His commands, which is also emphasized in 2 Timothy 3:16-17.
9 2 Kings 22:16 → Revelation 2:5 The warning of impending judgment on Judah due to their disobedience is reminiscent of the warning to the church in Revelation 2:5 to repent and return to their first love.
10 2 Kings 22:21 → 1 John 1:9 King Josiah's response to the prophetess Huldah's message demonstrates his commitment to seeking God and following His commands, which is similar to the teaching on the importance of confessing sin and seeking God's forgiveness in 1 John 1:9.

Sermons on 2 Kings 22

SermonDescription
Michael L. Brown (Revival) Highlights of Past Revivals - Part 1 by Michael L. Brown Michael L. Brown discusses the historical context of biblical revivals, emphasizing the Hebrew concept of 'Chaya,' which means to revive or bring to life. He highlights the story o
Erlo Stegen The Lord Has Need of Them by Erlo Stegen In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the life and testimony of a woman who lived a good life and passed away. He emphasizes the importance of following in the footsteps of Chri
Glenn Meldrum Josiah's Reform by Glenn Meldrum In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of King Josiah and his role in bringing about a revival in Israel. The preacher emphasizes the importance of the Word of God and h
Keith Daniel The Greatest Danger This World Faces Today by Keith Daniel This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking God desperately for revival, drawing parallels from the stories of King Josiah and Ezra in the Bible. It highlights the need for th
Catherine Booth Female Ministry -or- Woman's Right to Preach the Gospel by Catherine Booth Catherine Booth preaches about the importance of recognizing and embracing the gifts and calling of women in the ministry, challenging the traditional views that restrict women fro
Peter Hammond Seek the Lord With All Your Heart by Peter Hammond Peter Hammond preaches on the importance of seeking the Lord wholeheartedly, forsaking wicked ways, and diligently studying God's Word for revival and transformation. He emphasizes
C.H. Spurgeon Sensitive to Warning by C.H. Spurgeon C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of being sensitive to God's warnings, as exemplified by King Josiah, who humbled himself and trembled at God's Word. Spurgeon highlights tha
Erlo Stegen Let No One Despise Your Youth by Erlo Stegen Erlo Stegen emphasizes that youth should not be despised, as God can work through young people to fulfill His purposes, citing biblical examples like Joseph, David, and Josiah. He
David Servant Day 177, 1 Timothy 2 by David Servant David Servant preaches on the importance of praying for and respecting governmental authorities, even if they are unbelieving or corrupt, as it can lead to a peaceful and godly lif
Walter Beuttler Commentary Notes - Zephaniah by Walter Beuttler Walter Beuttler preaches on the book of Zephaniah, highlighting the prophecy that supplements Habakkuk's, emphasizing the judgment that will affect not only the Jews but also Genti

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 2 Kings 22

In this chapter, we see the remarkable story of King Josiah, who, at the tender age of eight, became king and reigned for thirty-one years. Despite the idolatrous practices that had become prevalent in Judah, King Josiah sought to follow God and remove the false worship that had taken hold. The discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple, as seen in 2 Kings 22:8, was a pivotal moment in the king's reign, as it highlighted the importance of seeking God and following His commands. The prophetess Huldah's message to King Josiah, as seen in 2 Kings 22:16-17, warned of the impending judgment on Judah due to their disobedience, emphasizing the need for repentance and seeking God's forgiveness. As Matthew Henry notes, this chapter teaches us the importance of seeking God and following His commands, and it highlights the power of God's Word to transform and redeem. As seen in 2 Kings 22:2, King Josiah's commitment to God is evident in his actions, demonstrating a heart that seeks to please God. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

The Importance of Seeking God

The chapter highlights the importance of seeking God and following His commands. King Josiah's commitment to God is evident in his actions, and his efforts to remove the idolatrous practices that had become prevalent in Judah are a key aspect of the chapter.

The Power of God's Word

The chapter also highlights the power of God's Word to transform and redeem. The discovery of the Book of the Law and the subsequent reform of Judah point to the idea that God's Word has the power to change lives and societies.

The Need for Repentance

The chapter emphasizes the need for repentance and seeking God. The prophetess Huldah's message to King Josiah warns of the impending judgment on Judah due to their disobedience, highlighting the importance of turning to God and seeking His forgiveness.

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