Originally published in the August 2008 issue of The Christadelphian magazine
Lessons for families
“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16)
BROTHER Stephen Palmer powerfully demonstrates the truth of Paul’s words to Timothy in his recently published book on Josiah and his family. Subtitled “Lessons for the last generation”, this very readable book of 179 pages considers the Bible records of Josiah and his sons and brings out exhortation for ecclesial life for believers who, like Josiah and his family, live in the shadow of God’s impending judgements.
The reader is frequently challenged to consider lessons arising from Josiah and his family and how they might influence their views in relation to modern issues. Among these are comments on how we should respond to the development of a separate youth culture, the need to ensure that sound interpretation of scripture is not unduly influenced by modern social trends, issues relating to clothing and the dangers of ecumenism. There are also some valuable, if incidental, comments on the importance of verbal inspiration and the need for care when selecting a translation of the Bible.
Family life in the Lord
By addressing not just Josiah but also his family Brother Stephen is able to draw out lessons for family life in the Lord today. Although the title refers to his sons, attention is also given to Josiah’s parents and his grandfather, as well as to his network of colleagues and friends. Many readers will find these observations the most valuable aspect of the work.
Other readers will find the expositional aspects of the book of most interest. With careful attention to detail Brother Stephen traces events in Josiah’s life. Amongst other useful points, he makes a compelling case for two separate cleansings of the land. Brother Stephen is very thorough in his handling of the historical record but does not restrict himself to Kings and Chronicles. There are copious references to contemporary prophets – Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Habakkuk and Zephaniah. Among these is a fascinating comparison between the response of Jehoiakim to God’s word and that of Nebuchadnezzar. Many students will particularly value these thoughtprovoking observations about events of the times and the colour they add to an appreciation of several well known passages from these prophets.
Judah did not reform
Josiah was clearly an impressive leader. Over the years some Bible commentators have romantically – even naively – portrayed his reformation as a model for reform in ecclesial life. While all would do well to emulate Josiah’s faithfulness and commitment, it must be recognised that Josiah’s reformation was largely ineffective because it was driven from the top and was not embraced by the average Israelite. (Incidentally, in this regard the author draws a parallel with the first century ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ which likewise was not embraced by the masses in Israel. In both cases judgement soon followed.) Brother Stephen shows how Jeremiah’s strident prophecies provide the necessary balance that ensures we correctly appreciate the impact of Josiah’s reformation, the challenges he faced and the lessons for today.
The expositional material is not restricted to books and prophecies from Josiah’s time. Not surprisingly in a study of Josiah’s life, attention is drawn to how the Law of Moses, in particular the book of Deuteronomy, motivated and informed Josiah’s actions. There is also an intriguing page suggesting how the experiences of Josiah might be seen through the prism of the book of Lamentations.
In relation to the New Testament, there are copious references to the life and work of the Lord Jesus Christ, including a chapter devoted to Josiah as a type of Christ. Brother Stephen suggests that several incidents in the Gospels reflect, may even have been informed by, the experiences of Josiah. Finally, a number of links are suggested between the Old Testament record of Josiah’s times and the issues addressed in the epistles.
Valuable sources
This book is drawn from articles which appeared in The Christadelphian from June 1994 to December 1995. Throughout the book Brother Stephen makes reference to other studies relating to these times which have been published in Christadelphian magazines in recent decades. There is much valuable material in these sources which are sometimes overlooked. Directing the reader’s attention to them encourages further study of these interesting times. It is hoped that other writers will follow this example.
The value of the book is enhanced by a scripture and subject index. It is commended heartily to all who wish to become more familiar with the declining days of Judah’s kingdom and, having recognised the parallels with our owns times, wish to prepare for the judgements that will soon accompany the return of our Master.
