2 Chronicles 35:21

But Neco sent messengers to him, saying, "What is the issue between you and me, O king of Judah? I have not come against you today, but I am fighting another dynasty. God told me to hurry; so stop opposing God, who is with me, or He will destroy you!"

Study Bible

But Neco sent messengers to him, saying,
Pharaoh Neco II was the king of Egypt during this period, around 610-595 BC. His decision to send messengers indicates a diplomatic approach, common in ancient Near Eastern politics, to avoid unnecessary conflict. This reflects the political landscape where communication between nations was crucial to avoid misunderstandings and wars.

“What is the issue between you and me, O king of Judah?
This question highlights the lack of direct conflict between Egypt and Judah. Neco's inquiry suggests that he did not perceive Judah as an enemy, emphasizing the unnecessary nature of Josiah's opposition. Historically, Judah was a smaller kingdom compared to Egypt, and this question underscores the imbalance of power and the potential for unnecessary loss.

I have not come against you today,
Neco clarifies his intentions, indicating that his military campaign was not directed at Judah. This statement is crucial in understanding the broader geopolitical movements of the time, as Egypt was likely moving to support Assyria against the rising Babylonian empire.

but I am fighting another dynasty,
The "another dynasty" refers to the Babylonians, who were gaining power and threatening both Assyria and Egypt. This context is essential for understanding the strategic alliances and conflicts of the period, as Egypt sought to maintain a balance of power in the region.

and God has told me to hurry.
Neco claims divine instruction for his actions, a common assertion among ancient rulers to legitimize their campaigns. This statement introduces a theological dimension, suggesting that God’s will was perceived to be at work beyond the borders of Israel and Judah, challenging the exclusivity of divine guidance to the Israelites.

So stop opposing God, who is with me,
Neco's assertion that God is with him presents a theological challenge to Josiah, who was known for his religious reforms and dedication to Yahweh. This phrase suggests that God’s purposes can transcend national boundaries and that divine favor is not limited to Israel alone.

or He will destroy you!”
This warning serves as a prophetic statement, foreshadowing Josiah's demise in battle. It underscores the theme of divine sovereignty and the consequences of opposing God's will, a recurring motif in the biblical narrative. Josiah's failure to heed this warning results in his death, illustrating the serious implications of disregarding divine messages.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Neco
Pharaoh Neco II, the king of Egypt, who was on a military campaign against the Assyrians and sought to pass through Judah without conflict.

2. Josiah
The king of Judah, known for his religious reforms and dedication to God, who decided to confront Neco despite the warning.

3. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, ruled by Josiah, which was geographically situated between Egypt and Assyria.

4. God's Message
The divine communication that Neco claimed to have received, instructing him to proceed with his campaign and warning Josiah not to interfere.

Teaching Points

Discernment in Leadership
Josiah's failure to heed Neco's warning serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and discerning His will, even when it comes from unexpected sources.

The Danger of Presumption
Assuming that one's own plans align with God's will without seeking confirmation can lead to disastrous consequences, as seen in Josiah's untimely death.

God's Sovereignty in World Affairs
The passage illustrates that God can use even foreign rulers and nations to accomplish His purposes, reminding us of His ultimate control over history.

Listening to God's Warnings
The importance of being attentive to God's warnings, regardless of the messenger, is crucial for avoiding unnecessary conflict and aligning with His plans.

Humility in Decision-Making
Josiah's account encourages leaders and believers to approach decisions with humility, recognizing that God's perspective may differ from our own.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Josiah's decision to confront Neco reflect on his understanding of God's will, and what can we learn from his example about seeking divine guidance?

2. In what ways can we discern whether a message or warning is truly from God, especially when it comes from unexpected sources?

3. How does the concept of God's sovereignty over world events, as seen in this passage, influence our perspective on current global affairs?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that our plans align with God's will, and how can we avoid the pitfalls of presumption?

5. How can we cultivate a spirit of humility in our decision-making processes, and what role does prayer play in seeking God's guidance?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 23:29-30
This passage provides a parallel account of Josiah's encounter with Neco, offering additional context to the events leading to Josiah's death.

Proverbs 21:30
This verse emphasizes that no wisdom, understanding, or counsel can prevail against the Lord, highlighting the futility of opposing God's will.

Isaiah 55:8-9
These verses remind us that God's thoughts and ways are higher than ours, suggesting that human understanding is limited compared to divine wisdom.