- The Explore the Bible Lesson for Aug. 28 focuses on 2 Kings 22:8-20.
I have never been one to enjoy shopping in rummage sales or estate sales, but I have heard that one can find some things of value if you know where to look and how to look for these fantastic finds. Two weeks ago, one of our family friends was shopping at an estate sale. Knowing we needed a new washing machine because our current one was in its last days, she informed us of a washing machine and a dryer being sold at a bargain price. Deciding to buy the appliances was a “no-brainer” decision. We immediately jumped at the opportunity and purchased both.
It was a great feeling to walk away with some relatively new appliances knowing that we paid a fraction of the cost they were worth. Our friend helped us find something of value that day in the form of a much-needed washing machine and dryer. However, I’m still not a big fan of rummage or estate sales—that is, until I need something else.
In the text for this week, Judah, the Southern Kingdom, is about to face Yahweh’s judgment for failing to live by his commandments. Idolatry is rampant in Judah, and their hearts were far from Yahweh. And yet, in a unique occurrence, the high-priest, Hilkiah, finds a book of the Law within the temple. Like a long-lost valuable, the Law is discovered and brought to the attention of King Josiah, and he begins to make some critical changes for the spiritual well-being of Judah.
The Discovery (2 Kings 22:8-10)
During temple renovations, the high priest, Hilkiah, finds a book of the Law. The sad part of this story illustrates the spiritual deterioration of Judah. The book of the Law had been laid aside, eventually lost under the rubble and dust. Clearly, the priority of the Law had been disregarded, and idolatry had been the primary reason for Judah’s spiritual decay.
Hilkiah gives the book to Shapan, one of the King’s inner circle. Shapan reads the book of the Law to King Josiah, and the words begin to convict him. What are the things of the Lord that we lay aside and replace with something else? What might we need to be reminded of about God’s word to bring renewed conviction?
The Response (2 Kings 22:11-13)
The words of the Law stirred King Josiah’s heart that he ripped his clothes in deep grief and anger, because Judah disobeyed Yahweh’s laws, and he knew Yahweh’s wrath was imminent. Wisely, he commanded a delegation to ask Yahweh how they should respond.
Although King Josiah was seeking repentance now, the years of disobedience required consequences. The damage had been done to the relationship between Judah and Yahweh, and God will hold them accountable for their longstanding sinful participation in idolatrous living. Although Yahweh is gracious and forgiving and slow to anger, there are consequences to living outside of his will and commandments.
The Affirmation (2 Kings 22:14-20)
The king’s delegation went to speak to Huldah, a prophetess, about what the Lord might require. Interestingly, the delegation speaks to a prophetess. Huldah is not mentioned anywhere else in Scripture besides here, yet she plays a significant role in bringing a timely word from the Lord. Let’s celebrate the truth that the Lord will use men and women in crucial moments to bring clarity to his people.
Huldah brings an ominous word describing the judgment to come, however, she also brings a word of grace from the Lord. Because Josiah humbled his heart and sought true repentance from the Lord, he would spare Josiah from witnessing the harsh judgment coming against his kingdom. Shortly after this, King Josiah begins to make radical reforms by tearing down many places of idolatrous worship within Judah.
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God always is faithful to his word, whether exacting judgment or extending grace; things happen just as God promises. Let us always value his word, promises and presence in our lives and be willing to grow in our relationship with him through the power and conviction the Holy Spirit allows us.
Dr. Joe Rangel is the associate dean of the School of Christian Studies and teaches Christian ministry at Wayland Baptist University.
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