Sermon Notes + 6.28.2026
SERMON NOTES
All the People Joined in the Covenant
2 Kings 23
Dr. Tony Chute, Lead Pastor
Overview: The discovery of the Book of the Law prompts King Josiah to assemble the nation and its leaders together for a public reading of the Word of God, followed by a national commitment to do all that is written therein. Josiah leads the nation in revival by destroying every vessel dedicated to false gods, removing every person who led others to worship falsely, and tearing down every place that provided opportunities to lead Judah astray. Josiah expands his reforms beyond the boundaries of Judah by destroying altars in Bethel and Samaria and sacrificing priests who had provoked the Lord to anger by their idolatry. In addition to removing objects of false worship, Josiah reinstitutes the Passover. The verdict on Josiah and Judah is mixed, in accordance with Huldah’s prophecy—the king is commended for his efforts, but the country must face the consequences of their longstanding betrayal of the Lord. May the Lord enable us to see a similar revival in our day.
01. Revival begins with a renewed commitment to God’s Word by leaders and laity alike.
02. Revival involves a resolute rejection of habits accepted by the world but prohibited by God.
03. Revival includes a settled devotion to the person of Jesus Christ and His work of redemption.
QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION & DISCOVERY
1. Read 2 Kings 23:1-3. How does the author describe Josiah’s leadership in bringing people to hear the Word of God? What is the significance of “both small and great” coming to hear the Word of God? Can revival happen without both leaders and laity participating?
2. Consider the statement in verse 3, “And all the people joined in the covenant.” What does it mean to enter into a covenant with the Lord? When you hear the Word of God preached or taught, what helps you to focus on commitment to the Word instead of just hearing the Word?
3. Note the steps Josiah took in 2 Kings 23:4-14 in order to bring about reform in Judah. Why was it necessary for him to be so thorough? What complaints or pushback might his actions elicit from those who made their living promoting alternative ways of worship? How might such a thorough reform look in Corona or America today?
4. What was the significance of restoring the Passover in 2 Kings 23:21-23? How does the Passover in the Old Testament point us to a greater deliverance in the New Testament? How does our regular observance of the Lord’s Supper ground you in God’s grace?
5. What was the ultimate outcome of Josiah’s revival? Did it successfully avert God’s judgment against the nation? If revival is no guarantee that a nation will avert God’s judgment, why should Christians long for and pray for revival? Are you praying for revival?
For Further Reading: Martyn Lloyd-Jones, Revival (Crossway, 1987)