Josiah
Stephen Palmer
Mid-Atlantic Christadelphian Bible School (1991)
| Study | Title | Media |
|---|---|---|
| 1 of 6 | While He Was Yet Young | |
| 2 of 6 | I Have Found The Book Of The Law | |
| 3 of 6 | Thus Saith The Lord | |
| 4 of 6 | Make it Plain | |
| 5 of 6 | The King's Children | |
| 6 of 6 | The King's Seed |
This series follows the remarkable reign of King Josiah, a man who turned to God with all his heart, soul, and might. His story is one of youthful faith, rediscovery of the Word, bold reform, and enduring influence. Though he lived in a time of deep corruption, Josiah’s devotion to the law and his passion for truth prepared a generation to remain faithful even in exile. These classes explore his life as both a reformer and a foreshadowing of greater hope in Christ.
While He Was Yet Young
The opening class sets the scene in the dark spiritual climate of Josiah’s youth, showing how his determination to seek God early shaped his reign. Despite the legacy of Manasseh’s wickedness, Josiah’s heart was tender to the Word, and his youthful zeal became the foundation of sweeping change that would preserve a faithful remnant.
I Have Found the Book of the Law
This session recounts the dramatic rediscovery of the long-lost book of the law in the temple. Josiah’s trembling response when it was read to him reveals the power of scripture to convict and renew. His humility before God led to a covenant of reform that rallied the nation, while also highlighting the importance of personal reverence for the Word.
Thus Saith the Lord
Here we see how Josiah responded directly to the authority of God’s Word. Guided by the prophetess Huldah, Josiah recognized his responsibility as king to act decisively. His zeal in cleansing the land of idolatry was shaped by his deep reverence for the law, a model of obedience and courage that pointed forward to the greater king to come.
Make it Plain
This class reflects on Josiah’s diligence in ensuring that the Word was both preserved and proclaimed. He not only kept it in his heart but also sought to prepare the people to live by it. Through the Passover he restored, Josiah endeavored to unite the nation in covenant faithfulness, even if their hearts did not fully turn. His example reminds us to treasure scripture and let it shape our lives.
The King’s Children
The focus shifts to Josiah’s personal life and his role as a father. Though his own heart was steadfast, his sons chose rebellion and rejected the example set before them. This sobering contrast illustrates both the limits of human influence and the surpassing example of Christ, the true king whose reign brings lasting faithfulness.
The King’s Seed
The series concludes with the legacy of Josiah and the contrast between his faith and the failure of his descendants. Even as his sons faltered, other young men like Daniel and Ezekiel carried forward the spirit of Josiah’s reforms into exile. His life testified to the mercy and loving-kindness of God, and his death foreshadowed the sacrifice of Christ, who perfectly fulfills the hope Josiah embodied.
This description has been generated by AI and lightly edited.