2Ki 22:8-20 | MHM | STEP | v. 8 : While repairing the temple, Hilkiah the high priest found the book of the law. This was likely the original or an ancient copy of Moses’ writings. He gave it to Shaphan the secretary to read to the king (2 Kings 22:8 ).

‏ 2 Kings 22:8-20

v. 8: While repairing the temple, Hilkiah the high priest found the book of the law. This was likely the original or an ancient copy of Moses’ writings. He gave it to Shaphan the secretary to read to the king (2 Kings 22:8 ^a).

–

v. 10: Shaphan read the book to Josiah. When Josiah heard the words, he realized how far the people had turned from God’s commands. This brought a new seriousness and commitment to follow God’s law.

The Ruin of Judah Foretold; the Favour Shown to Josiah

After the book of the law was found and read to King Josiah, his attention shifted from repairing the temple to seeking God’s will for himself and his people. Josiah realized how serious the nation’s sins were and wanted to know if there was still hope. His humble response and desire to do what pleased God set him apart as a true servant of the Lord. This passage shows both God’s justice against sin and His mercy for those who humbly repent.

v. 11: When Josiah heard the words of the law, he tore his clothes in grief. He was ashamed of his people’s sins and afraid of God’s anger. The reading of the law showed him just how bad things had become, and he felt deep sorrow for the dishonor brought to God and the ruin that could come to Judah.

v. 12: Josiah immediately sent some of his most important officials to ask the Lord what should be done. He wanted guidance for himself and for all the people.

v. 13: Josiah was deeply moved by what he heard. He tore his clothes in sorrow and sent messengers to ask God what they should do, knowing that they had not kept the commands and fearing God’s anger . Josiah asked them to inquire of the Lord because he knew their fathers had not obeyed God’s law. He was worried about the great wrath that the law warned would come because of their sins. Josiah wanted to know how they could escape God’s judgment and what they should do next. Extra Note: The rediscovery of the book of the law was a great blessing from God. It brought light and truth back to Judah. When God’s Word is honored and read, it leads to real change and helps people return to Him.

v. 14: The officials went to Huldah the prophetess, who lived in Jerusalem. She was well known and respected, and God sometimes chose women as prophets to speak His word. Huldah’s husband worked at the palace, so the officials knew they could trust her message.

v. 15-17: Huldah sent a message from God, saying that disaster would surely come to Judah and Jerusalem because the people had turned away from Him and provoked His anger. The judgment would be so certain and severe that it could not be stopped. God’s word would come true, just as it was written in the book of the law (2 Kings 22:16-17 ^b).

– –

v. 18-19: But Huldah also gave a special message for Josiah. God saw that Josiah’s heart was tender and humble. He was sorry for the sin around him and truly wanted to honor God. Because of this, God promised to show him mercy. Josiah would not see the coming disaster. God said, Your heart was tender and you humbled yourself before the Lord (2 Kings 22:19 ^c).

–

v. 20: God promised Josiah that he would die in peace and would not witness the great trouble that would soon come to Judah. Even though Josiah died in battle, he was spared from seeing the destruction of Jerusalem. God’s promise reminded him—and us—that those who fear Him and repent will find mercy, even when judgment is coming (Isaiah 57:1-2 ^d).