Introduction

Manasseh, the son of Hezekiah and king of Judah, is a profound biblical example of how afflictions can be transformed into spiritual benefits. His reign, as recorded in the books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles, illustrates a dramatic journey from deep-seated idolatry and rebellion against God to repentance and restoration. This entry explores the life of Manasseh, focusing on how his afflictions led to a significant spiritual transformation.

Background

Manasseh ascended to the throne of Judah at the tender age of twelve and reigned for fifty-five years, the longest of any king in Judah's history (2 Kings 21:1). Despite being the son of the godly King Hezekiah, Manasseh's early reign was marked by egregious idolatry and moral decay. He rebuilt the high places his father had destroyed, erected altars for Baal, made an Asherah pole, and even practiced child sacrifice (2 Kings 21:3-6). His actions provoked the LORD to anger, as he led Judah into greater sin than the nations the LORD had destroyed before the Israelites (2 Kings 21:9).

Afflictions and Repentance

The turning point in Manasseh's life came through severe affliction. The LORD allowed the commanders of the army of the king of Assyria to capture Manasseh with hooks and bind him with bronze shackles, taking him to Babylon (2 Chronicles 33:11). This period of captivity and humiliation was a divine intervention designed to bring Manasseh to repentance.

In his distress, Manasseh sought the favor of the LORD his God and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers (2 Chronicles 33:12). This act of humility and repentance was met with divine mercy. The LORD was moved by his entreaty and brought him back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the LORD is God (2 Chronicles 33:13).

Reforms and Restoration

Upon his return, Manasseh demonstrated the sincerity of his repentance through significant religious reforms. He removed the foreign gods and the idol from the house of the LORD, as well as all the altars he had built on the temple mount and in Jerusalem, and he threw them outside the city (2 Chronicles 33:15). He restored the altar of the LORD and sacrificed fellowship and thank offerings on it, commanding Judah to serve the LORD, the God of Israel (2 Chronicles 33:16).

Theological Implications

Manasseh's account is a testament to the transformative power of affliction when it leads to genuine repentance. His life underscores the biblical principle that God disciplines those He loves, as a father disciplines the son in whom he delights (Proverbs 3:12). The afflictions Manasseh endured were not merely punitive but redemptive, serving as a catalyst for his spiritual awakening and return to God.

Moreover, Manasseh's repentance and subsequent reforms highlight the boundless grace and mercy of God. Despite the depth of his sin, Manasseh found forgiveness and restoration, illustrating the truth that no one is beyond the reach of God's redemptive power. His life serves as an encouragement to believers that, through repentance, even the most wayward can be restored to a right relationship with God.

Conclusion

The account of Manasseh is a powerful reminder of the potential for afflictions to bring about spiritual growth and renewal. His life exemplifies how God can use even the most challenging circumstances to draw individuals back to Himself, demonstrating His sovereignty and grace in the process.2 Chronicles 33:12
And when he was in affliction, he sought the LORD his God, and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers,
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Worst Things Work for Good to the Godly
... Afflictions are as needful as ordinances (I Peter i.6 ... providences which seem to be
prejudicial, are beneficial. ... way for his advancement, he was made the second ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watson/a divine cordial/the worst things work for.htm

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