Zedekiah: The Chronicles of Judah
The story of Zedekiah, the final king of Judah, is one of heartbreak and reflection. As we examine his reign and the broader narrative of the kings of Judah, we uncover profound lessons about faith, leadership, and God’s ultimate plan for humanity.
The Final Kings of Judah
Zedekiah was not the direct successor of Josiah, Judah’s last great king, but he represents the final chapter of a long and often tumultuous history. After Josiah’s death, Judah endured a series of short-lived and ineffective rulers. These included Jehoahaz, Jehoiakim, and Jehoiachin, each marking a step closer to the nation’s decline.
Zedekiah, Josiah’s son, was placed on the throne by Babylon as a vassal king. However, his reign was marked by rebellion against Babylon and disobedience to God. The chronicler describes him as one who “did evil in the eyes of the Lord his God and did not humble himself before Jeremiah the prophet” (2 Chronicles 36:12). Zedekiah’s stubbornness and pride led not only to his downfall but also to the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC.
From Excellence to Exile
The story of Judah’s kings is one of steady decline. The nation’s spiritual state often mirrored the condition of the temple—at times vibrant and restored, at other times neglected and desecrated. Despite repeated warnings from prophets like Jeremiah, the people and their leaders persisted in idolatry and rebellion.
The chronicler writes, “The Lord, the God of their ancestors, sent word to them through his messengers again and again, because he had pity on his people and on his dwelling place. But they mocked God’s messengers, despised his words and scoffed at his prophets until the wrath of the Lord was aroused against his people” (2 Chronicles 36:15-16). The result was exile—an event that left the temple destroyed, Jerusalem in ruins, and the people yearning for restoration.
Hope in the Midst of Disappointment
Though the book of 2 Chronicles ends on a somber note, it also points toward hope. The chronicler, writing after the exile, knew that God’s promises through prophets like Jeremiah had been fulfilled. The exile would last 70 years, but a remnant would return to rebuild Jerusalem.
However, even after their return, Israel’s expectations were not fully met. The rebuilt temple paled in comparison to Solomon’s original, and the nation remained under foreign rule. Their longing for a Messiah—a king, priest, and temple in one—grew stronger.
The Fulfillment in Jesus
The narrative of 2 Chronicles points forward to Jesus, the ultimate fulfillment of their deepest longings.
A Better King: Jesus is the “Son of David,” the perfect king who reigns with justice and righteousness. Unlike Judah’s flawed leaders, Jesus rules an eternal kingdom without borders.
A Better Priest: Jesus is the great high priest who mediates between God and humanity. His sacrifice on the cross provides atonement once and for all.
A Better Temple: Jesus referred to his body as the temple, foreshadowing his resurrection. After his death and resurrection, the physical temple was no longer necessary. Through Jesus, the presence of God dwells within every believer.
The Mission Continues
Jesus passed this hope and mission to his followers, calling them to be a “kingdom of priests.” As believers, we carry the presence of God within us, becoming temples of the Holy Spirit.
This legacy has been handed down through generations—from Jesus to the disciples, to the early church, and beyond. Today, it rests with us. We are tasked with continuing the mission, sharing the good news, and “reaching one more.”
Carrying the Torch Forward
The story of Zedekiah and the kings of Judah reminds us of humanity’s need for a Savior. It also challenges us to carry forward the hope found in Jesus. In our communities and to the ends of the earth, we are called to pass the torch, sharing the life-changing message of the gospel.
As we reflect on God’s faithfulness throughout history, let’s commit to being part of his work in the world. Will we keep this hope to ourselves, or will we pass it on?
The choice is ours. Let’s pass it on.
Blog adapted from December 8, 2024, message by Minister Mark Ashton