Chapter Summary

Reign of Josiah. Book of the law found and read.

Discussion Questions for 2 Chronicles, Chapter 34

1. What is the significance of Judah having two kings in a row (from chapter 33-34) who came to power very young? Does that correlate with the sins and untimely deaths of the previous kings? What does this teach you about leadership and its impact on people and society?
2. What is the significance of Josiah seeking the Lord "while he was still a youth" (HCSB)? Does this remind you of Paul telling Timothy to not "let anyone look down on you for your youth" (HCSB)? What does this say about how God uses people regardless of age? What encouragement might this bring you, or a young person around you?
3. Why did Josiah literally "smash" (HCSB) the altars and pagan idols around Judah? What does this tell you about the seriousness with which he approached sin amongst God's people? How do you approach sin and repentance? In what ways do you personally "smash" idols in your own life?
4. What stands out to you about Josiah's character and Godly intentions? What does this teach you about what God desires for the character of His people? In what ways can you emulate the Godly people around you?
5. How does Josiah's character differ from his predecessors in Judah? Knowing that, how does Josiah's reign differ from the kings before him? What does that tell you about the impact that leaders have on people? How does this change your viewpoint on how to approach and pray for leadership in your life?
6. Why do you think much time is spent documenting the financial integrity of the "carpenters" and "builders" (HCSB)? What does this teach you about integrity in your workplace and in your vocation? How do you practice financial integrity in your personal life?
7. What is the significance of all the different regions of verse 9 contributing to the rebuilding of the Temple? How does this display of national unity contribute to the spiritual unity achieved under Josiah? What is the catalyst for bringing all the people of Judah together on this project? How does this teach you to pursue and practice unity with those in your life?
8. What significant event happens in verses 14-15? Why is this event significant? What does this teach you about how to value the Word of God? How do you show that you value God's Word in your daily life?
9. Why did Josiah have the reaction that he did to the finding of the Book of the Law? Why do you think he initially responded not with joy but with sorrow and repentance? What emotions and impacts does God's Word solicit from you?
10. How did the people respond to the reading of the Book of the Law? What does this say about the power of Scripture and its place in our lives? How do you regularly interact with Scripture, and how have you seen God's Word become alive in your life?

Key Words/Phrase

Reform, v. 33.

Characters

God, Josiah, Hilkiah, Shaphan, Huldah, Maaseiah, Joah, Ahikam, Abdon, Asaiah.

Strong Verse(s)

27