Topical Encyclopedia Background Context:Jotham, the son of Uzziah (also known as Azariah), became king of Judah following his father's reign. Uzziah's reign was marked by prosperity and military success, but it ended with his affliction of leprosy due to his unfaithfulness in attempting to burn incense in the temple, a duty reserved for priests (2 Chronicles 26:16-21). Jotham's ascension to the throne is recorded in 2 Kings 15:32-38 and 2 Chronicles 27:1-9. His reign is noted for his efforts to continue the reforms and construction projects initiated by his father, as well as his commitment to walking in the ways of the LORD. Prophetic Context: During the time of Jotham's reign, the prophetic voices of Isaiah, Hosea, and Micah were active. These prophets addressed both the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah, warning of impending judgment due to the people's unfaithfulness and idolatry, while also offering hope for future restoration. Isaiah's Prophecies: Isaiah, who began his ministry in the year of King Uzziah's death (Isaiah 6:1), prophesied extensively about the future of Israel and Judah. His messages during Jotham's reign included calls for repentance and warnings of judgment. Isaiah 1:4-5 states, "Alas, sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a brood of evildoers, children of corruption! They have forsaken the LORD; they have despised the Holy One of Israel and turned their backs on Him. Why do you want more beatings? Why do you keep rebelling? The whole head is sick, and the whole heart is faint." Isaiah also spoke of a future hope, foretelling the coming of a righteous king from the line of David, who would establish justice and peace (Isaiah 9:6-7). Hosea's Prophecies: Hosea's ministry primarily targeted the northern kingdom of Israel, but his messages also had implications for Judah. Hosea warned of the consequences of Israel's unfaithfulness, using the metaphor of an unfaithful spouse to describe the nation's relationship with God. Hosea 4:1 declares, "Hear the word of the LORD, O children of Israel, for the LORD has a case against the inhabitants of the land: 'There is no truth, no loving devotion, and no knowledge of God in the land.'" Despite the warnings, Hosea also conveyed God's enduring love and promise of restoration, as seen in Hosea 14:4 : "I will heal their apostasy; I will freely love them, for My anger has turned away from them." Micah's Prophecies: Micah, a contemporary of Isaiah and Hosea, also prophesied during Jotham's reign. His messages were directed at both Israel and Judah, emphasizing social justice and true worship. Micah 6:8 famously summarizes God's requirements: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" Micah also foretold the coming of a ruler from Bethlehem, who would shepherd God's people and bring peace (Micah 5:2-5). Jotham's Reign and Prophetic Fulfillment: Jotham's reign was characterized by relative stability and continued prosperity, as he "did what was right in the eyes of the LORD" (2 Kings 15:34). However, the seeds of idolatry and social injustice sown during his time would later contribute to the downfall of both Israel and Judah. The prophetic messages delivered during Jotham's reign served as both a warning and a promise, highlighting the consequences of disobedience and the hope of redemption through God's faithfulness. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 15:7,32-38So Azariah slept with his fathers; and they buried him with his fathers in the city of David: and Jotham his son reigned in his stead. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 27:1 Library The Antiquities of the Jews Resources Are Israel and the church the same thing? Does God still have a plan for Israel? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is spiritual Israel? | GotQuestions.org Did God divorce Israel? | GotQuestions.org Israel: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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