revival of a long-neglected ordinance, filled them with holy joy; and God recompensed their zeal
in destroying idolatry with uncommon tokens of his presence and favour. We have reason to think
that during the remainder of Josiah's reign, religion flourished.
Verses 25–30
Upon reading these verses, we must say, Lord, though thy righteousness be as the great
mountains, evident, plainly to be seen, and past dispute; yet thy judgments are a great deep,
unfathomable, and past finding out. The reforming king is cut off in the midst of his usefulness, in
mercy to him, that he might not see the evil coming upon his kingdom: but in wrath to his people,
for his death was an inlet to their desolations. (2Ki 23:31-37)
Verses 31–37
After Josiah was laid in his grave, one trouble came on another, till, in twenty-two years,
Jerusalem was destroyed. The wicked perished in great numbers, the remnant were purified, and
Josiah's reformation had raised up some to join the few who were the precious seed of their future
church and nation. A little time, and slender abilities, often suffice to undo the good which pious
men have, for a course of years, been labouring to effect. But, blessed be God, the good work which
he begins by his regenerating Spirit, cannot be done away, but withstands all changes and
temptations.
Chapter 24
Chapter Outline
Jehoiakim subdued by Nebuchadnezzar. (1–7)
Jehoiachim captive in Babylon. (8–20)Verses 1–7
If Jehoiakim had served the Lord, he had not been servant to Nebuchadnezzar. If he had been
content with his servitude, and true to his word, his condition had been no worse; but, rebelling
against Babylon, he plunged himself into more trouble. See what need nations have to lament the
sins of their fathers, lest they smart for them. Threatenings will be fulfilled as certainly as promises,
if the sinner's repentance prevent not. (2Ki 24:8-20)
Verses 8–20
Jehoiachin reigned but three months, yet long enough to show that he justly smarted for his
fathers' sins, for he trod in their steps. His uncle was intrusted with the government. This Zedekiah
was the last of the kings of Judah. Though the judgments of God upon the three kings before him