Dictionary of Bible Themes: 8466 reformation

◄ 8466 reformation ►

Dictionary of Bible Themes

The process of bringing religious practices and beliefs back into line with the word of God. The OT portrays Israel as requiring reformation at several points in her history. God's people continue to need to review their beliefs and practices in the light of God's word.

1 Samuel 7:3

The continual need to turn from idolatry

See also

Genesis 35:2

Idolatry was the besetting sin of Israel and the point at which all reforms had to begin.

Joshua 24:14-24
Judges 6:25-27
2 Kings 10:18-27; 11:17-18
2 Chronicles 19:3; 33:15
1 Corinthians 10:14

pp 2Ch 23:16-17

1 John 5:21
1 Kings 15:12-13

The reform of Asa

He removed idols

2 Chronicles 15:8,18

He repaired the altar of the temple

2 Chronicles 15:9-15

As a result the people sought and found God

2 Kings 18:4

The reform of Hezekiah

He removed idols and even local shrines dedicated to God

2 Chronicles 29:3-7,15-28

pp 2Ch 31:1

He established worship in the renovated and consecrated temple

2 Chronicles 29:10-11,29-31; 30:1-27; 31:2-19

The covenant between God and his people was renewed

2 Kings 22:3-7

The reform of Josiah

He repaired the temple

2 Kings 23:4-24

pp 2Ch 34:8-13

He ended false worship

2 Chronicles 34:33

pp 2Ch 34:3-7

2 Kings 22:11-20

The results of Josiah's reform

2 Kings 23:1-3

pp 2Ch 34:19-28

The prevailing attitude was that God would ensure that no disaster would befall his chosen people. Now the need to turn from sin and complacency was reiterated and repentance ensued

2 Kings 23:3

pp 2Ch 34:29-32

2 Kings 23:21-23

pp 2Ch 34:31-32

pp 2Ch 35:1-19

Ezra 10:2-3

The reforms of Ezra and Nehemiah

The problem of intermarriage was dealt with

See also

Ezra 9:1-15; 10:5-17

The objection to intermarriage was based on religious not racial grounds. It led to a corruption of the faith.

Nehemiah 13:23-27
Nehemiah 13:4-13