How does 2 Kings 22:9 connect with Proverbs 27:23 on knowing the state of flocks? Setting the Scene in 2 Kings 22 “Then Shaphan the scribe went to the king and reported, ‘Your servants have melted down the silver found in the temple of the LORD; they have put it into the hands of those who supervise the work on the LORD’s temple.’ … ‘Hilkiah the priest has given me a book.’ And Shaphan read it in the presence of the king.” (2 Kings 22:9) • A young King Josiah receives a careful report: temple funds are counted, allocated, and the newly-discovered Book of the Law is placed before him. • The scribe doesn’t hide a detail; the king now “knows the state” of both the treasury and, more importantly, the neglected spiritual condition of Judah. The Principle in Proverbs 27:23 “Be sure to know the state of your flocks, and pay close attention to your herds.” • Written to an agrarian audience, the proverb urges diligent, hands-on oversight of whatever God has placed under one’s care. • The shepherd who daily inspects wool, weight, and wounds models responsible stewardship. A Shared Theme: Faithful Stewardship • Proverbs gives the timeless command—know your resources and responsibilities. • 2 Kings 22 shows the command in action—Josiah receives accurate information so he can act. • Knowing precedes doing; awareness leads to obedience. Practical Parallels – Both passages emphasize accountability: the shepherd to his flock, the king to his people and his God. – Regular reporting (Shaphan’s verbal “inventory”) mirrors regular inspection of sheep. – Material care (temple silver / flock health) and spiritual care (Book of the Law / flock well-being) sit side by side; neither is optional. – Neglect in either sphere invites ruin (cf. Proverbs 27:24; 2 Kings 22:13). Lessons for Today • Keep clear, honest records—finances, time, talents. Luke 16:10. • Invite transparency: leaders need truthful “Shaphans” who will speak up. Proverbs 27:6. • Respond quickly once the facts are known; Josiah repairs the temple and renews covenant (2 Kings 23:1–3). James 1:22. • Remember that stewardship is ultimately relational: “I am the good shepherd. I know My own and My own know Me.” (John 10:14). Supporting Scriptures 1 Corinthians 4:2—“Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” Hebrews 13:17—Leaders will “give an account” for those entrusted to them. Psalm 23:1—The LORD Himself models perfect shepherding. Josiah’s temple ledger and Solomon’s pastoral proverb converge on one point: God’s people honor Him when they consistently know, oversee, and act upon the condition of everything—and everyone—He has placed in their care. |
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