What is the meaning of 2 Chronicles 34:21? Go and inquire of the LORD for me When the long-lost “Book of the Law” was read aloud, King Josiah reacted by seeking divine direction rather than relying on his own insight (cf. 1 Samuel 23:2; Proverbs 3:5-6). His charge models humility, dependence, and immediate obedience—essentials whenever God’s Word exposes sin. • He places God’s verdict above royal prerogative, mirroring David’s practice of inquiring before battle (2 Samuel 5:19). • The step reflects James 1:5, which promises wisdom to those who ask. • It establishes that true reform starts with prayerful consultation, not mere policy adjustments (2 Chronicles 20:3-4). and for those remaining in Israel and Judah Josiah widens his concern from himself to the remnant of the divided kingdom, showing corporate responsibility (Exodus 32:11-14; 1 Samuel 12:23). • The northern tribes had fallen to Assyria (2 Kings 17:6); only a remnant survived. Yet God still cares for “all Israel” (Romans 11:1-5). • Intercession for others underscores unity (Romans 12:5) and anticipates the church’s call to pray “for all people” (1 Timothy 2:1). • The mention of “remaining” reminds us God always preserves a faithful core (Isaiah 10:20-22). concerning the words in the book that has been found. Authority now rests in what the book says, not in tradition or royal precedent (Deuteronomy 17:18-20; Joshua 1:8). • Hilkiah’s discovery (2 Chronicles 34:15) parallels later revivals when Scripture is restored, such as Nehemiah 8:1-3. • Josiah wants clarity “concerning the words,” showing that every issue must be measured by the text (Acts 17:11). • Revival always begins with rediscovery of Scripture’s supremacy (Psalm 19:7-11). For great is the wrath of the LORD that has been poured out on us Josiah recognizes that covenant curses are already falling (Leviticus 26:14-39; Deuteronomy 28:15-68). • “Has been poured out” signals present consequences—military losses, social decay—yet also God’s corrective love (Hosea 6:1). • God’s wrath is righteous, never arbitrary (Romans 1:18). • Awareness of judgment fuels urgency; delay would invite deeper ruin (Hebrews 10:31). because our fathers have not kept the word of the LORD by doing all that is written in this book. He identifies the true cause: generational disobedience. • Confession echoes Nehemiah 1:6-7 and Daniel 9:5-6, acknowledging ancestral guilt while owning current responsibility (Ezekiel 18:19-20). • “Kept…by doing” warns that hearing without obedience is worthless (James 1:22; Matthew 7:24-27). • “All that is written” stresses total obedience; partial compliance equals rebellion (1 Samuel 15:22-23). summary 2 Chronicles 34:21 captures Josiah’s heart for immediate, Scripture-driven reform. He seeks God’s counsel, includes the whole remnant, lets the rediscovered Law set the agenda, admits that divine wrath is already unfolding, and confesses the generational sin behind it. The verse teaches that genuine renewal begins with returning to God’s Word, humbly seeking His direction, and responding with full-orbed obedience—timeless principles for God’s people in every age. |
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