Josiah he turned with all his heart #1 The early Years (Tim Styles OWBS 2022)

Summary

The content delves into the early years of Josiah, a significant figure in Judah's history, highlighting the turbulent circumstances of his ascension to the throne and his upbringing. It explores how Josiah's life was prophesied centuries before his birth and his pivotal role in overturning the idolatry introduced by Jeroboam. Additionally, it discusses Josiah's influences, including his mother, repentance, and the example of David, as he sought to follow God wholeheartedly from a young age.

Highlights

• 📜 Josiah's early years were marked by chaos and tumult as he ascended to the throne of Judah at just eight years old, amidst political upheaval and idolatry.
• 📜 Prophecies in First Kings foretold Josiah's birth and his mission to overthrow idolatry, setting the stage for his significance in Judah's history.
• 📜 Josiah's upbringing and influences, including his mother and the example of David, played a crucial role in shaping his character and devotion to God.
• 📜 His commitment to seeking God wholeheartedly, illustrated by his decision to follow the God of David, demonstrates the importance of personal choice and devotion in spiritual growth.
• 📜 The narrative underscores the value of providing opportunities for young people to engage in ecclesial life and leadership development, emphasising the importance of mentorship and support networks.

Keywords

• Josiah
• Judah

Q: What is the backdrop against which Josiah is thrust onto the throne?

A: Josiah is thrust onto the throne amidst chaos, tumult, and the aftermath of his father's assassination, followed by further upheaval in the land.

Q: Who prophesied the birth and life's work of Josiah, and where can this prophecy be found?

A: The birth and life's work of Josiah were prophesied in 1 Kings chapters 13, with his name specifically mentioned as a solution to the apostasy initiated by Jeroboam.

Q: How did Josiah's upbringing influence his character despite his father's evil reign?

A: Josiah's upbringing, likely influenced by his mother and the faithful support network around him, steered him towards seeking after the God of his father David, despite his father Ammon's wickedness.

Q: What were Josiah's central missions as king, and how did they contrast with Jeroboam's actions?

A: Josiah's central missions as king included meticulously keeping and following the law, reversing Jeroboam's idolatrous practices, and ensuring God remained central to the nation. This stood in stark contrast to Jeroboam's disregard for God's commandments and his promotion of idolatry and apostasy.