2 Chronicles 34:21

"Go and inquire of the LORD for me and for those remaining in Israel and Judah concerning the words in the book that has been found. For great is the wrath of the LORD that has been poured out on us because our fathers have not kept the word of the LORD by doing all that is written in this book."

Study Bible

Go and inquire of the LORD
This phrase reflects a deep-seated tradition in ancient Israel of seeking divine guidance through prophets or priests. The Hebrew root for "inquire" (דָּרַשׁ, darash) implies a diligent search or investigation, suggesting that King Josiah is earnestly seeking God's will. This act of inquiry underscores the importance of seeking divine wisdom and guidance, a principle that remains central in conservative Christian thought, emphasizing prayer and scripture as means to understand God's will.

for me and for those who remain in Israel and Judah
Josiah's concern is not only personal but extends to the remnant of the nation. Historically, this period follows the Assyrian conquest, which decimated the northern kingdom of Israel. The phrase "those who remain" highlights the survival of a faithful remnant, a recurring theme in biblical history that speaks to God's preservation of His people despite judgment. This remnant theology is significant in conservative Christianity, symbolizing hope and continuity of God's promises.

concerning the words of the book that has been found
The "book" refers to the Book of the Law, likely Deuteronomy, discovered during temple renovations. This discovery is pivotal, as it reintroduces the covenantal laws to a nation that had strayed from them. The historical context here is crucial; it marks a revival and reform under Josiah, emphasizing the transformative power of God's Word. In conservative Christian belief, this underscores the authority and necessity of Scripture in guiding faith and practice.

For great is the wrath of the LORD that is poured out on us
This phrase acknowledges the reality of divine judgment due to covenant unfaithfulness. The Hebrew word for "wrath" (חֵמָה, chemah) conveys intense anger, reflecting God's righteous response to sin. The historical context involves the cumulative disobedience of previous generations, leading to national calamity. In conservative theology, this serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for repentance and obedience to God's commands.

because our fathers have not kept the word of the LORD
Here, Josiah recognizes the generational sin that has led to the current crisis. The phrase "have not kept" (שָׁמַר, shamar) implies a failure to guard or observe God's commandments. This acknowledgment of ancestral failure is crucial, as it sets the stage for national repentance and reform. In conservative Christian thought, this highlights the importance of faithfulness to God's Word across generations, stressing the need for teaching and upholding biblical truths.

by doing all that is written in this book
The emphasis on "doing" (עָשָׂה, asah) underscores the necessity of action in response to God's Word. It is not enough to merely hear or read the Scriptures; obedience is required. This call to action is central to the reforms Josiah implements, leading to a national renewal. In conservative Christianity, this principle is foundational, advocating for a faith that is lived out through obedience to God's commands, reflecting a life transformed by His Word.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Josiah
The king of Judah who initiated religious reforms and sought to restore the worship of Yahweh. He is known for his dedication to God and his efforts to lead the nation back to the covenant.

2. Hilkiah
The high priest who discovered the Book of the Law in the temple during its renovation. His discovery was pivotal in sparking the religious reforms under Josiah.

3. The Book of the Law
Likely a portion of the Torah, possibly Deuteronomy, found during temple repairs. Its discovery led to a renewed commitment to follow God's commandments.

4. Israel and Judah
The divided kingdoms of the Israelites. At this time, Josiah was king over Judah, and he sought to include the remnant of Israel in his reforms.

5. The Temple in Jerusalem
The central place of worship for the Israelites, where the Book of the Law was found. It symbolizes the spiritual center of the nation.

Teaching Points

The Importance of God's Word
Josiah's response to the Book of the Law highlights the critical role of Scripture in guiding personal and national life. We should prioritize reading and understanding the Bible to align our lives with God's will.

Repentance and Reform
Josiah's actions demonstrate the power of repentance and the need for reform when we stray from God's commands. Personal and communal repentance can lead to spiritual renewal.

Leadership and Responsibility
As a leader, Josiah took responsibility for his people's spiritual state. This teaches us the importance of godly leadership and the impact it can have on others.

Seeking God's Guidance
Josiah's inquiry of the LORD shows the necessity of seeking divine guidance in times of uncertainty. We should turn to God in prayer and seek His wisdom in our decisions.

Generational Accountability
The acknowledgment of the sins of the fathers reminds us of the impact of past generations on the present. We are called to break cycles of disobedience and establish a legacy of faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Josiah's response to the discovery of the Book of the Law challenge us in our approach to Scripture today?

2. In what ways can we, like Josiah, lead others towards spiritual reform and renewal in our communities?

3. How does the concept of generational accountability in 2 Chronicles 34:21 relate to the idea of breaking cycles of sin in our own lives?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that we are seeking God's guidance in our daily decisions, as Josiah did?

5. How can the rediscovery of God's Word in our lives lead to personal and communal transformation, similar to the reforms under Josiah's reign?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 31:24-26
This passage describes Moses writing the law and placing it beside the Ark of the Covenant, which connects to the rediscovery of the law in Josiah's time.

2 Kings 22:13
A parallel account of Josiah's response to the Book of the Law, emphasizing his urgency in seeking God's guidance.

Jeremiah 36:1-3
Jeremiah's call to repentance and the reading of God's words to the people, similar to Josiah's reforms and public reading of the law.