Chapter Summary

Law read to the people. The king's covenant and reformations.

Discussion Questions for 2 Kings, Chapter 23

1. Does the people of Israel feel hopeless after the death of Josiah? Why or Why not?
2. How is Josiah's death in contrast to Jesus's death? In what ways do the circumstances surrounding Josiah's death and Jesus's death reflect different attitudes towards power, sacrifice, and the fulfillment of divine purposes? Furthermore, how do these differences shape our understanding of the significance of Jesus's death and its implications for humanity's relationship with God?
3. How was Jehoahaz different than Josiah? Considering the reigns of Jehoahaz and Josiah in Judah, how did their leadership styles, policies, and responses to spiritual matters differ? Moreover, how do these differences reflect broader themes or trends within Judah's history, and what insights can we draw from their contrasting reigns about the complexities of kingship and the spiritual condition of the nation during their respective eras?
4. Even in the midst of Jehoahaz reign is there still hopefulness for the people of Israel? Why or why not? In what ways do the challenges faced during Jehoahaz's reign provide opportunities for spiritual growth and renewal among the people of Israel, and what lessons can we draw from this about resilience, faith, and hope in the midst of difficult circumstances? Additionally, how might the response of the people during Jehoahaz's reign inform our understanding of the dynamics between human agency and divine intervention in times of crisis?
5. Was Jehoahaz taught to rebel against God by his father? How does the gospel inform how we are to teach our children?
6. Reflecting on the importance of conviction by the word of the Lord in living a godly life, how does the influence of Scripture shape our understanding of morality, ethics, and personal conduct? Moreover, how can regular engagement with the word of God deepen our conviction and commitment to living according to His principles, and what practical steps can we take to incorporate Scripture into our daily lives for spiritual growth and transformation?
7. Considering the significance of repentance through the word of the Lord in living a godly life, how does the act of turning away from sin and returning to God's ways contribute to spiritual growth and transformation? Furthermore, what role does genuine repentance play in cultivating humility, accountability, and a deeper relationship with God, and how can we encourage and support one another in this ongoing journey of repentance and renewal?
8. Reflecting on the importance of obedience to the word of the Lord in living a godly life, how does obedience flow from a genuine relationship with God and an understanding of His character and love? Moreover, how does the gospel message inform our understanding of obedience as both a response to God's grace and a demonstration of our love and devotion to Him? Additionally, how can we navigate the tension between the call to obedience and the recognition of God's unmerited favor and forgiveness in our lives?
9. Josiah reformed the nation of Israel. What does this say about his faithfulness to God? In what ways can you see your need to be more faithful compared to Josiah?
10. As we consider the reign of Jehoiakim in Judah and the life of Jesus, how do their leadership styles, responses to spiritual matters, and impacts on their communities differ and overlap? Moreover, what insights can we draw from comparing these two figures about the complexities of leadership, the pursuit of righteousness, and the nature of God's kingdom? Let's explore together how their examples inform our understanding of faithful living and leadership in our own lives today.

Key Words/Phrase

Covenant, v. 3.

Characters

God, Josiah, Hilkiah, Pharaoh-neche, Jehoahaz, Jehoikim, Eliakim.

Strong Verse(s)

3, 25.