What can we learn from Josiah's response to Pharaoh Neco's message? Setting the Scene After restoring true worship in Judah, Josiah confronted Pharaoh Neco, who was marching north to fight at Carchemish. Neco’s plea came “from the mouth of God,” yet Josiah pressed on (2 Chronicles 35:20-22). Pharaoh Neco’s Warning “ ‘What does this have to do with you, O king of Judah? … God has told me to hurry. Stop opposing God, who is with me, lest He destroy you.’ ” (2 Chronicles 35:21) Josiah’s Response • Ignored the warning • Disguised himself, as if concealment could change God’s decree • Entered battle at Megiddo and was mortally wounded (2 Chronicles 35:22-24) What We Learn • God can speak through unexpected messengers – Balaam (Numbers 22:28-32) – Cyrus (Isaiah 45:1-4) – Here, a pagan king • Test every message, even when the source surprises us – “The simple believe every word, but the prudent consider their steps.” (Proverbs 14:15) – Compare Neco’s claim with the law, prophets, and godly counsel (Deuteronomy 18:15-22) • Zeal must be balanced by discernment – Josiah’s passion for covenant faithfulness had brought reform, yet unchecked zeal now blinded him – “It is not good to have zeal without knowledge.” (Proverbs 19:2) • Past obedience does not guarantee future protection – Asa’s early faith, later compromise (2 Chronicles 16) – We “run in such a way as to obtain the prize” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27) • Pride precedes a fall – “Pride goes before destruction.” (Proverbs 16:18) – Josiah’s refusal to seek fresh guidance parallels King Ahab’s disguised downfall (2 Chronicles 18:28-34) Practical Takeaways 1. Stay teachable—God’s direction may come through unlikely channels. 2. Weigh every word against Scripture and seek confirmation in prayer. 3. Guard against presumption; never assume yesterday’s victories guarantee today’s success. 4. Finish well by maintaining humility and discernment to the very end. Supporting Verses at a Glance • 2 Chronicles 35:20-24 – Josiah’s encounter with Neco • Proverbs 16:18 – Warning against pride • Proverbs 19:2 – Zeal without knowledge • 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 – Running to finish well • Deuteronomy 18:15-22 – Testing prophetic words • Numbers 22 – God speaking through Balaam’s donkey |
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