What can we learn about God's sovereignty from Josiah's reign ending in 2 Chronicles 35? Setting the Scene 2 Chronicles 35 details Josiah’s last Passover, his fatal clash with Pharaoh Neco, and the final editorial note in v. 27: “and his acts, from first to last, behold, they are written in the Book of the Kings of Israel and Judah.” Unexpected End for a Faithful King – Josiah loved the Law (2 Chronicles 34:31). – He cleansed Judah of idolatry (2 Chronicles 34:3–7). – He led the greatest Passover since Samuel (2 Chronicles 35:18). – Yet he died young in a battle God had not told him to fight (2 Chronicles 35:20–24). Lessons on God’s Sovereignty • God’s purposes are bigger than one generation – Despite Josiah’s reforms, the Lord had already decreed judgment (2 Kings 23:26–27). • Obedience does not obligate God to our desired outcomes – Even the most devoted king could not turn back prophecies spoken in 2 Chronicles 34:24–25. • The Lord directs even pagan rulers – Pharaoh Neco said, “God has told me to hurry; stop opposing Him” (2 Chronicles 35:21). – Proverbs 21:1: “The king’s heart is a watercourse in the hand of the Lord; He directs it wherever He pleases.” • God records every faithful deed, even when the story ends abruptly – 2 Chronicles 35:27 emphasizes that Josiah’s entire life is preserved in God’s record. • Tragedy accomplishes God’s timing – Josiah’s death removed the last righteous barrier before Babylon could come, fulfilling Jeremiah 25:9–11. Supporting Passages – Isaiah 46:9–10 — God declares the end from the beginning. – Daniel 2:21 — He changes times and seasons; He removes kings and sets up kings. – Romans 8:28 — He works all things for good to those who love Him, including unexplained losses. – Psalm 115:3 — “Our God is in the heavens; He does whatever pleases Him.” Takeaway Truths • God’s sovereign plan never falters, even when righteous people suffer. • Faithfulness is measured by obedience, not by length of life or visible success. • Historical records like 2 Chronicles 35:27 remind us that every act is known to God and woven into His larger redemptive story. |
    |