How does 2 Chronicles 35:20 illustrate the consequences of ignoring God's warnings?

Setting the Scene

“After all this that Josiah had prepared for the temple, Pharaoh Neco king of Egypt went up to fight at Carchemish on the Euphrates, and Josiah marched out to confront him.” (2 Chronicles 35:20)

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God Sends a Warning

• Pharaoh Neco relays a clear message: “God has told me to hurry… stop opposing God, who is with me, or He will destroy you.” (v. 21)

• Though spoken by a pagan king, the text identifies the words as “from the mouth of God” (v. 22).

• Scripture often shows God speaking through unexpected people (cf. Numbers 22:28; John 11:49-51).

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Josiah’s Response

• “Josiah… did not turn away… he would not listen” (v. 22).

• He even disguises himself, signaling stubborn determination rather than humble inquiry.

• Contrast: earlier in life Josiah eagerly obeyed God’s word (2 Chronicles 34:19-33); now he ignores it.

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Immediate Consequences

• Battle on the Plain of Megiddo ends with Josiah struck by archers and mortally wounded (vv. 23-24).

• The nation mourns, and the bright reforms of his reign fade quickly (vv. 24-25; Jeremiah 22:11-17).

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Biblical Principle Reaffirmed

• Ignoring divine warning invites judgment:

– “Whoever remains stiff-necked after many rebukes will suddenly be destroyed—without remedy.” (Proverbs 29:1)

– “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” (Hebrews 3:15)

• Even a godly past does not exempt from present obedience (Ezekiel 18:24).

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Lessons for Today

• God’s guidance may come through unlikely sources; test it against Scripture, but never dismiss it out-of-hand.

• Past faithfulness must be matched by present humility; pride can surface at any stage of life.

• Prompt obedience preserves life and blessing; refusal courts loss, sorrow, and diminished witness.