2 KINGS 23

JOSIAH FOLLOWS GOD’S WORD + LEADS WITH RIGHTEOUSNESS

Instead of pride, Josiah responds with obedience and follows God’s law for the remainder of his life. Josiah rules as a righteous king over Judah, removing high places and altars of Baal. Maintaining the integrity of the temple, Josiah destroys the false idols and removes the corrupt priests. The pillars once used as a place of idol worship are cut down and filled with the remains of bodies and bones, showing how idolatry leads to death. Similarly, altars and high places of sin are defiled and burned to dust.

Following God’s word, Josiah honors the Passover with an elaborate celebration. Although Josiah is a righteous and faithful leader, God’s wrath is still impending upon Judah for the nation’s continual disobedience.

Later, Josiah is killed in battle against Egypt. After his death, his son Jehoahaz reigns as king over Judah. Only three months after taking the throne, Egypt overthrows Jehoahaz and institutes his brother, Eliakim as king. The Egyptians change Eliakim’s name to Jehoiakim.