Josiah, An Obedient King

      

Introduction (2 Kings 22:1–23:30; 2 Chronicles 34:1–35:27)
Josiah stands as one of the most faithful kings of Judah, remembered for turning to the Lord with all his heart, soul, and might. His obedience preserved his nation during his reign, and his example shows us what it means to truly “obey all the way.”

The Influence of a Godly Mother
Josiah was only eight years old when he became king, far too young to understand the depth of spiritual obedience without guidance. His mother, Jedidah, taught him, corrected him, and instilled in him the fear of the Lord. Scripture tells us that “foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child” (Proverbs 22:15). Parents who leave their children untaught or undisciplined invite spiritual ruin, but parents who diligently teach the word of God bless their children for a lifetime. Just as Timothy’s mother and grandmother were praised for their faith (2 Timothy 1:5), so Josiah was shaped by his mother’s influence. Parents today must invest in teaching and guiding their children, for the fruit of that work is eternal.

Josiah’s Personal Accountability
By the age of sixteen, Josiah had taken personal ownership of his faith and responsibility to God. While under the law of Moses accountability may have been marked around age twenty, many young men demonstrated spiritual awareness far earlier. Josiah, Jehoash, Timothy, and even Jesus in the temple at twelve show us that youth is not an excuse for disobedience. Young people today must be exhorted to “let no one despise thy youth” (1 Timothy 4:12) but to live faithfully and remember their Creator while they are young (Ecclesiastes 12:1). Josiah’s example reminds us that accountability to God begins when we choose to take His word seriously.

Josiah’s Influence on Others
Josiah did not keep his faith private. When the book of the law was read to him, he humbled himself and acted to bring the entire nation back to God. He personally covenanted to serve the Lord, and “all the people stood to the covenant” (2 Kings 23:3). His leadership shows the ripple effect of obedience—one faithful heart can inspire many others to turn back to God. People follow leaders, and when leaders boldly stand for truth, they help others stand as well. Josiah’s example is a call for every Christian to influence family, friends, and neighbors with faithful obedience, echoing Joshua’s challenge: “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15).

Josiah’s Devotion to the Word of God
When the book of the law was discovered, Josiah immediately recognized it as God’s authoritative standard. He did not excuse himself, nor did he make allowances for the people to continue in false worship. Instead, he followed the word, restored true worship, and fought against sin. He tore down idols, re-established the Passover, and led his nation back to covenant faithfulness. His obedience was thorough and sincere. God Himself testified that there was “no king before him that turned to the Lord with all his heart, soul, and might, according to all the law of Moses” (2 Kings 23:25). Josiah’s heart was wholly devoted to doing what God commanded.

Call to Action
Josiah’s life calls us to wholehearted obedience. His faith was not partial, nor was it convenient—it was complete. Like Josiah, we must allow God’s word to be our guide, leading us to restore true worship, confront sin, and influence others to covenant faithfulness. Obedience begins in the home, extends into personal accountability, and shines in leadership that points others to God. Let us be people who obey all the way.

Key Takeaways

• Godly parents lay the foundation for obedience (2 Timothy 1:5; Proverbs 22:15).

• Accountability to God begins when we take His word seriously (Ecclesiastes 12:1; 1 Timothy 4:12).

• Faithful leaders influence others toward obedience (2 Kings 23:3; Joshua 24:15).

• God’s word is the standard for true worship and holy living (2 Kings 23:25).

• Obedience must be complete, heartfelt, and consistent with God’s will (John 14:15).

Scripture Reference List

• 2 Kings 22:1–23:30 – Josiah’s reign and reforms.

• 2 Chronicles 34:1–35:27 – Parallel account of Josiah’s obedience.

• Proverbs 22:15; 29:15 – Instruction and discipline in raising children.

• 2 Timothy 1:5 – Faith instilled by a mother and grandmother.

• Ecclesiastes 12:1 – Remember your Creator in youth.

• 1 Timothy 4:12 – Let no one despise your youth.

• 2 Kings 23:3 – Covenant of obedience with the people.

• Joshua 24:15 – Commitment to serve the Lord.

• 2 Kings 23:25 – Josiah’s wholehearted devotion.

• John 14:15 – If you love me, keep my commandments.

Mike Glenn