Rediscovery

The concept of rediscovery in a biblical context often refers to the uncovering or renewed understanding of God's Word and His commandments. Throughout biblical history, there have been significant moments when the people of God rediscovered the Scriptures, leading to spiritual revival and reform.

One of the most notable instances of rediscovery is found in the reign of King Josiah of Judah. During his reign, the Book of the Law was found in the temple by Hilkiah the priest. This event is recorded in 2 Kings 22:8-11 : "Then Hilkiah the high priest said to Shaphan the scribe, 'I have found the Book of the Law in the house of the LORD.' And he gave it to Shaphan, who read it. And Shaphan the scribe went to the king and reported, 'Your servants have paid out the money that was found in the house and have entrusted it to the workers and supervisors at the house of the LORD.' Moreover, Shaphan the scribe told the king, 'Hilkiah the priest has given me a book.' And Shaphan read it in the presence of the king. When the king heard the words of the Book of the Law, he tore his clothes."

This rediscovery led to a national repentance and a covenant renewal, as Josiah sought to align the nation with the commands of God. The rediscovery of the Scriptures brought about a profound transformation in the spiritual life of Judah, emphasizing the power of God's Word to convict and guide His people.

Reformation

Reformation, in the biblical sense, refers to the process of returning to the foundational truths of Scripture and aligning one's life and community with God's will. It often follows a period of rediscovery and is marked by repentance, renewal, and a commitment to live according to God's statutes.

The reforms initiated by King Josiah after the rediscovery of the Book of the Law serve as a prime example of biblical reformation. Josiah's response to the reading of the Law was immediate and decisive. He removed idolatrous practices, destroyed pagan altars, and reinstated the observance of the Passover, as described in 2 Kings 23:21-23 : "The king commanded all the people, 'Keep the Passover to the LORD your God, as it is written in this Book of the Covenant.' For such a Passover had not been observed since the days of the judges who judged Israel, nor throughout the days of the kings of Israel and Judah. But in the eighteenth year of Josiah’s reign, this Passover was observed to the LORD in Jerusalem."

Reformation is not only a historical event but also a continual process for believers. The New Testament calls for personal and communal reformation through the renewal of the mind and heart. Romans 12:2 exhorts believers: "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God."

The Protestant Reformation of the 16th century is another significant example of reformation, where leaders like Martin Luther and John Calvin sought to return the Church to the authority of Scripture, emphasizing salvation by faith alone and the priesthood of all believers. This movement was driven by a rediscovery of biblical truths that had been obscured by tradition and ecclesiastical practices.

In summary, rediscovery and reformation are intertwined themes in the biblical narrative, highlighting the transformative power of God's Word and the call to live in faithful obedience to His commands.