2 Kings 23-24

Pastor Marshall Ochs | December 15, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Kings 23-24. These chapters focus on how King Josiah's reform brought radical changes, purging idolatry, sinful practices, and corrupt worship, reflecting the transformative power of God’s Word. Despite Josiah’s efforts, Manasseh’s wickedness led to God’s judgment through foreign nations, culminating in Babylon’s siege of Jerusalem. The contrast of Josiah’s reforms and the judgment of Judah encourage us to reflect on the parallels with Jesus’ advent. The Advent of Jesus offers joy and life to those who obey and change, but sorrow and death to those who reject it, urging each person to choose how they will respond to His arrival.

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2 Kings 23

Everything changes for a nation when a new king steps onto the throne. With each reign comes a ripple—either toward compromise and sin or toward reform and righteousness. The reign of King Josiah in 2 Kings 23 stands as a defining moment of revival and restoration, one that swept through Judah with deep reform.

Josiah’s reforms were not surface-level adjustments; they were sweeping and radical. They touched every corner of life. Even the sins of Solomon’s legacy and Jeroboam’s idolatrous worship in Bethel were obliterated. Nothing was left untouched. Josiah’s actions remind us that it is thorough and relentless when God calls us to reform. It was not merely a return to ritual but a renewal of covenant. The people recommitted to the Lord, but sadly, their devotion was often rooted more in their admiration of Josiah than in their own personal understanding of guilt and responsibility before God.

As we reflect on Josiah’s reforms, we are reminded of the coming of Jesus. Advent—His arrival—is not a passive event. It is a call for radical change in our lives, just as Josiah’s reforms called for the same in Judah.

Reading God’s Word Like Josiah: Josiah was deeply humbled by God’s Word. He tore his robes in grief, realizing the vast gap between his life and the life God desired for His people. Have we allowed God’s Word to penetrate that deeply? Have we let it humble us and bring about real change?

Removing Pagan Symbols from Our Lives: Just as Josiah purified the temple, Christ calls us to purify our hearts. What “pagan symbols” have we allowed to linger—old habits, comforts, or sins that defile God’s temple, our bodies?

Melting the Golden Calves of Tradition and Comfort: Josiah destroyed the high places—symbols of convenient, half-hearted worship. Are we willing to let go of the things that make faith convenient but rob it of power?

One commentary I read this week posed a question that stopped me in my tracks:

“Are your efforts at holiness based on a desire to ‘go along’ with a well-liked leader, or are you deeply humbled by God’s Word, realizing the gap between your life and God’s expectations?”

Josiah’s reforms were born out of a heart devoted to the Lord. His obedience wasn’t a strategy to change outcomes but simply the proper response to God. This truth pierces through our modern lens: Would we obey God even if it changed nothing? If obedience didn’t bring about the outcome we longed for, would we obey?

In 2 Kings 23:21-27, we see the areas Josiah’s reform touched: worship, household idols, and even how people viewed death and eternal hope. Yet, God’s plan to destroy Jerusalem remained unchanged. The sins of Manasseh had already sealed the nation’s fate. Why, then, does Josiah’s story matter? Because Josiah shows us that obedience isn’t about results—it’s about devotion. True holiness isn’t transactional. We don’t follow God to manipulate outcomes; we follow Him because He is worthy. Our obedience to God does not guarantee our safety here on earth. This earth is not our home.  

Josiah’s death marks the beginning of a rapid decline. His sons, Jehoahaz and Jehoiakim, lead Judah back into sin. How could such wickedness grow from a righteous father? Perhaps the influence of their mothers or the fragmented dynamics of a household with multiple wives played a role. Whatever the cause, it reminds us that the baton of faith is not passed down through proximity or good intentions—it requires personal repentance and surrender.

As we sit with Josiah’s story, consider these questions:

1. Are there areas in your life that need to be cleansed?

2. Have you allowed God’s Word to humble you and expose your deep need for His cleansing?

3. Is your obedience rooted in devotion or desired outcomes?

4. What clutter do you need to remove from your life to make room for God to do a new work in you?

The advent of Josiah brought sweeping reform, but the advent of Jesus brought an even deeper call. His arrival isn’t about small adjustments but total transformation. May we, like Josiah, respond with humble obedience, no matter the cost, and may our devotion reflect the depth of His love for us.

2 Kings 24

The story in 2 Kings 24 takes us from Josiah's sweeping reforms to the devastating consequences of his sons' rebellion. Jehoahaz, Jehoiakim, and Zedekiah—all descendants of the righteous Josiah—chose to abandon God's ways and led Judah away from God. Their reigns were marked by wickedness, idolatry, and betrayal of God's covenant, and the Lord brought judgment against them through Egypt, Moab, Ammon, and ultimately Babylon.

The first siege of Jerusalem by Babylon under Nebuchadnezzar is recorded with chilling detail. A descendant of David, intended to rule under God, is reduced to a mere puppet of a foreign empire. The treasures of God's temple are carried away as a stark visual symbol of the nation's spiritual emptiness. Thousands of God's chosen people are taken into captivity as slaves. Among the deported are Daniel, his three friends, and Ezekiel—men who would later become voices of hope and truth in exile.

It wasn't just political tragedy—it was spiritual devastation. The temple, once the center of God's presence and the nation's worship, was now plundered and desecrated. The people who were meant to carry God's light to the nations were now scattered, enslaved, and humiliated.

It is striking that this chapter of horror directly follows Josiah's revival and reform. Why does the author set these two narratives side by side? The same reason Jesus sets blessings and woes side by side in Luke 6.

Blessed are the poor, for yours is the kingdom of God!

Woe to you who are rich, for you have already received your comfort!

Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh!

Woe to you who laugh now, for you will mourn and weep!

Scripture consistently ties themes of joy and sorrow, obedience and rebellion, blessing and judgment. The advent of a king—whether Josiah, Nebuchadnezzar, or Christ Himself—brings both hope and reckoning. The king's arrival brings life and joy to those who humble themselves. For those who rebel, it brings sorrow and death.

Advent is no different. It's a season of celebration but also a time of reflection and repentance. Josiah's reforms remind us of the joy and peace in surrendering our lives to God, letting His Spirit change us, and putting the things of the flesh to death. But the reign of his sons and the judgment that followed remind us of the cost of disobedience and the sorrow of resisting God's call.

Advent isn't just a historical event or a seasonal tradition; it is deeply personal. Everyone will experience the advent of Christ, but how you experience it depends on your response.

Will you embrace the joy and life of humble obedience? Or will you resist, clinging to the things of the flesh and experiencing sorrow?

Reflect on the areas of your life where you are resisting God's call. Surrender those areas to Him, knowing that true peace and joy are found in obedience.

2 Kings 21-22

Pastor Marshall Ochs | December 8, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Kings 21-22. These chapters focus on the decline of Israel and Judah, including the reign of King Manasseh, whose sinful actions led to God’s judgment. Despite the wickedness of his son Amnon, God's promise remained, and a new king, Josiah, brought a brief period of restoration through repentance, reform, and a return to God's Word. Josiah's reign highlights the importance of hearing and obeying God's Word, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment of these principles in Jesus Christ. Jesus' Advent offers a far greater hope, bringing heart transformation, the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, and the promise of a new covenant that brings salvation, adoption, and eternal restoration.

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1. How does the story of Manasseh's reign challenge you to examine the influences in your own life that may be pulling you away from God?

2. In what ways can we actively respond to God's Word like Josiah did, especially during the Advent season?

3. Reflecting on the theme of repentance, how can you cultivate a spirit of humility in your life this Christmas?

4. As we celebrate Advent, what practical actions can you commit to that demonstrate your desire to hear and obey God's Word?

5. How can you create a deeper expectation for Christ's return in your daily routine as you observe Advent this year?

2 Kings 19-20

Pastor Marshall Ochs | November 24, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Kings 19-20. These chapters focus on the power of prayer and the importance of maintaining humility before God. King Hezekiah, facing the threat of Assyria and a terminal illness, prays earnestly, appealing to God's power and sovereignty, and God responds by miraculously saving Judah and extending Hezekiah’s life. These stories teach us to cultivate a robust prayer life, grounded in Scripture, as prayer connects us to the God who can change circumstances. However, they also serve as a warning not to become prideful in the blessings or answers to prayer, reminding us to acknowledge God's role in our success and to remain humble.

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2 Kings 17-19

Pastor Marshall Ochs | November 17, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Kings 17-19. Israel’s persistent sin led to their exile, illustrating the consequences of unfaithfulness to God’s covenant. This serves as a warning in Hebrews 12:25, encouraging Christians to remain faithful and avoid the world’s temptations, as Israel's rebellion is a repeatable pattern. King Hezekiah, however, provides a contrast, showing a heart devoted to God and a powerful example of prayer. When faced with imminent danger from Assyria, his prayerful dependence on God highlights the greater invitation for believers to make prayer a daily priority, cultivating a deep, ongoing relationship with God.

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In 2 Kings 17, the story of Israel reaches its tragic conclusion. For years, the northern kingdom of Israel spiraled deeper into sin despite God’s patience and kindness. Eventually, exile becomes the unavoidable result of their rebellion. The author of 2 Kings lists Israel’s sins in detail (verses 7-17)

This list of sins is devastating but often reads like a list of offensese. In Ezekiel 23, we find the impact of these sins, where God describes Israel’s sin as spiritual adultery. God's covenant with Israel was like that of a marriage, and their unfaithfulness was betrayal. They sought intimacy with the world instead of intimacy with God, leading to exile and the loss of their identity and land.

In Hebrews 12:25, we are reminded that rebellion under the first covenant led to severe consequences, and the stakes are even higher for those under the new covenant. Like Israel, we are warned not to crave worthless things that will ultimately leave us empty. The call is clear: remain faithful to Christ, rejecting worldliness and sin that can lead to spiritual exile.

Reflection Questions

1. Israel’s sins were often hidden (“secret sins against the Lord”). Are there sins in your life you’ve been ignoring or hiding?

2. How can you bring these areas to God in repentance and seek His forgiveness?

3. Ezekiel describes sin as spiritual adultery. Are there things you are prioritizing over your relationship with God?

4. How can you restore intimacy with God and keep Him at the center of your life?

5. Israel rejected prophetic warnings. Are there ways you’ve been resisting God’s warnings in your life?

6. How can you cultivate a heart that is surrendered to His guidance and correction?

As we move to 2 Kings 18, we shift our focus to Judah, where Hezekiah stands out as an encouragement in time of such evilness. Hezekiah is described as a king who was “fully devoted to God, like David”. He removed idols, tore down the high places, and destroyed the bronze serpent that Moses had made because it had become an idol.  Scripture says Hezekiah held fast to the LORD, and kept His commandments.

Once Assyria conquered Israel, their king set his sights on Judah. Hezekiah initially complied and sent the king of Assyria silver and gold with a letter that he had done wrong and would pay. In response, the king of Assyria sent his generals to mock and threaten Hezekiah and the nation of Judah.  

Faced with no where to go, Hezekiah spread the letter before the Lord and cried out for deliverance . This moment of complete surrender reveals Hezekiah’s heart: his trust is in the Lord alone.

Hezekiah’s prayer has inspired countless believers throughout history. It is a model of humility, surrender, dependence, and faith. Yet, as powerful as prayers in desperate times can be, there is an even greater invitation: daily communion with Jesus Christ through ongoing conversations.

Reflection Questions

1. Hezekiah trusted God in a desperate situation. Are there areas in your life where you’ve been trying to “control” or handle things on your own instead of turning to God?

2. How can you practice surrendering these situations to Him in prayer?

3. What steps can you take to deepen your dependence on God?

4. The invitation is to pray daily, not just in times of crisis. What does your daily prayer life look like?

5. How can you make prayer a consistent and meaningful part of your relationship with God?

As we reflect on these chapters, may we prioritize our conversations with our Heavenly Father above all else. Imagine the transformation in your life if prayer became your first priority. Let us be a people of prayer, faithfulness, and surrender, trusting that as we seek Him, He will lead us into His peace, purpose, and promises.

2 Kings 15-16

Pastor Marshall Ochs | November 10, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Kings 15-16. In the land of Israel and Judah, the people have turned away from God, allowing idolatry, violence, and sin to take root, leaving the land spiritually barren. Uzziah's reign starts well but ends as a warning about the dangers of pride, while Israel experiences decades of chaos with assassinations and political instability, reflecting the consequences of sin. In Judah, King Ahaz’s extreme idolatry, including child sacrifice and the corruption of temple worship, demonstrates how unrepentant sin affects both individuals and the larger society, revealing the devastating impact of putting sin at the center of life.

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2 Kings 15

Israel and Judah, the land promised by God as a place “flowing with milk and honey.” This land was intended to be a dwelling place of peace, joy, and protection—where God’s presence would be central to every part of life. But by this chapter, the Promised Land has become a place of darkness and chaos. Instead of worshiping Yahweh, Israel, and Judah are filled with pagan idols, foreign altars, and violence.

This tragic spiritual decline reminds us of Ichabod from 1 Samuel 4:21, where “the glory has departed.” When people forsake the Lord, He may give them over to their choices, allowing them to experience the consequences of a life separated from Him. Israel and Judah have become spiritually bankrupt, marked by emptiness and lack of peace.

The chapter begins by focusing on Judah and King Uzziah. Unlike many of Israel’s leaders, Uzziah “did what was right in the eyes of the Lord,” bringing stability and prosperity to Judah. Chronicles expands on Uzziah’s life, showing that he sought the Lord from a young age, and as a result, God blessed him with success in war and even advancements in technology.

However, success and technology opened the door to pride. Uzziah eventually lost sight of his role and his need for God, taking liberties meant only for priests. His pride led to a life-altering consequence: God struck him with leprosy, a visual reminder of the spiritual pride that had taken root in his heart. Uzziah’s life serves as a powerful warning—pride is like leprosy of the heart. Left unchecked, it spreads, clouds our perspective, and ultimately leads us away from God.

Following Uzziah’s life story, the author turns to Israel, where chaos and violence rule. Over about thirty years, Israel saw a rapid succession of kings—six in total—marked by assassinations, conspiracies, and corruption. Zechariah reigns for six months before being assassinated by Shallum, who himself reigns only one month before being murdered. The pattern of power grabs and betrayal continues with Menahem, Pekahiah, Pekah, and Hoshea, each of whom rises through betrayal and ultimately falls.

The author includes a disturbing detail in verse 16: Menahem attacked the Israelite city of Tiphsah, killing the people and brutally harming pregnant women because the city rejected him as king. This detail is shocking, not only because of its brutality but because it reveals the utter depravity that had taken hold of Israel. Why does the author include such a graphic account? It is a vivid illustration of the depths of depravity that result when people are given over to their sin. Israel’s became a nation where violence and chaos ruled, with no regard for the sacredness of life or God’s justice.

This chapter reminds us that turning away from God brings consequences. When we pursue the world, the result is spiritual and moral chaos, just as it was in Israel and Judah. Israel’s political instability and moral decay reflect what happens when people remove God from the center of their lives: violence, pride, and self-destruction take over. God may allow us to experience the consequences of our choices, but He remains compassionate and ready to restore us when we return to Him.

Uzziah’s story, too, calls us to examine our hearts. When we find our identity or signifiance based on our own success and achievements, we choose that over complete dependence on God and drift into self-sufficiency. Uzziah’s life began with humility and devotion, yet his end cautions against allowing success to overshadow our need for God.

Reflection Questions:

1. Uzziah started well, seeking the Lord, but pride eventually led to his downfall. Are there areas of success or personal achievements in your life that might be taking the place of humble dependence on God?  How can you guard your heart against pride and continually seek God’s guidance and glory in all you do?

2. Israel’s spiritual and moral chaos resulted from forsaking God. Are there areas in your life where you’ve drifted from God’s guidance or allowed other “idols” to take center stage? How can you refocus and make God the central influence in your life once again?

3. Menahem’s violent act against Tiphsah shows the depth of depravity when sin goes unchecked. Are there sins or attitudes you’ve allowed to persist without addressing in your life? How can you seek God’s strength to root out and flee these sins before they take a deeper hold?

4. The rapid succession of kings and constant betrayal in Israel reflect instability and brokenness. In what ways have you experienced instability in your own life when you’ve drifted from God? How can you refocus your eyes, mind, and heart to God, making Him the foundation of your life?

5. Pride is called the “leprosy of the heart” because it spreads and isolates. Are there ways pride might subtly influence your relationships, decisions, or faith? How can you humble these areas before God, asking Him to cleanse your heart?

2 Kings 16

In 2 Kings 16, the author shifts focus back to Judah. Uzziah’s son Jotham did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, yet the high places were still not removed. Then, after Jotham's death, Ahaz reigned. Ahaz fully embraced Israel's idolatrous ways, becoming one of Judah's most wicked kings. Ahaz's life reveals what happens when God is not the center of our lives, trading true worship for political alliances and pagan practices.

As war threatens Judah, Ahaz faces a choice: Will he trust in the Lord or seek an alliance elsewhere? Instead of trusting God, Ahaz turns to Assyria for help. This alliance works temporarily—Assyria defeats Ahaz's enemies—but it comes at a high cost.

When Ahaz visits Assyria, he is captivated by their pagan altar and orders a replica built in the temple of the Lord in Jerusalem. He goes even further and dismantles the temple furniture and alters the worship practices. These actions reflect Ahaz's true spiritual state: God is not at the center of his life. His choices not only dishonor God but also influences worship, the role of priests, and the hinder the people's relationship with God.

Ahaz's idol worship shows us how the center of our lives profoundly affects everything else. When God is not at the center, compromise and sin distort our priorities, actions, and relationships.

In 2 Kings 16:3, the author records that Ahaz sacrificed his own son by fire, adopting the horrifying practices of the pagan nations around him. This act of child sacrifice is also noted in 2 Kings 15:16 and condemned by the prophet Hosea during this period (Hosea 13:1-2). Hosea connects the worship of idols like the golden calf to the acceptance of extreme practices like human sacrifice. As people increasingly turn away from God, their sin deepens, eventually leading to acts that seem unimaginable.

Ahaz's sacrifice exposes the horrific impact of sin and rebellion. What began with Jeroboam's golden calves—a seemingly small act of compromise for "convenient worship"—has grown into child sacrifice generations later. Sin is like a web, it entangles and leads to destruction. Pulling on one thread of sin draws others with it, leading to a downward spiral. It reminds us that if left unchecked, sin affects every aspect of life and can lead to terrible consequences.

The author includes these shocking details to emphasize sin's severe and far-reaching effects. When God is not at the center, life becomes distorted, and everything—our priorities, relationships, and choices—becomes negatively impacted. This reminds us of the importance of centering our lives on God rather than on things like power, pride, or convenience. When God is at the center, the Holy Spirit guides and gives us everything we need for life and godliness.

Reflection Questions:

1. Ahaz compromised his faith by seeking help from Assyria rather than trusting God. Are there areas where you rely on worldly solutions or alliances rather than turning to God? How can you turn to God and put your trust back to Him in these areas?

2. When Ahaz was captivated by the Assyrian altar, he replicated it in Judah. Have things in your life taken your attention or devotion away from God? How can you refocus your heart and mind to ensure God remains at the center?

3. Ahaz's life story reveals the horrific consequences of sin-centered living. Have you made "small compromises" that could lead to greater sin over time? How can you guard against allowing small compromises to grow into destructive sin?

4. Ahaz's sin affected not only him but also all the worship practices and Judah's faith. Do you make choices that might influence those around you, especially in their walk with God? What steps can you take to model a life centered on God for those around you?

2 Kings 13-14

Pastor Marshall Ochs | November 3, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Kings 13-14. These chapters cover Israel's pattern of sin, judgment, and deliverance, under King Jehoahaz, whose cries for help were met with God's compassion despite ongoing disobedience. The life of Joash and Amaziah reveal a continued lack of true repentance and reliance on God, leading to further rebellion and the impending threat of exile. The theme of these chapters warns against complacency and emphasizes the importance of sincere devotion to God, urging readers to choose a relationship with Yahweh over the consequences of sin and spiritual apathy.

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2 Kings 13

We see a familiar pattern unfold in Israel. King Jehoahaz, the son of Jehu, leads Israel into sin, following in the idolatrous ways of his forefathers. As a consequence, God allows Syria to oppress Israel. This is the third time we have seen this cycle of judgment in Syria. Each time, the pattern is the same: Israel sins, judgment comes through the enemy, Israel cries out, and God mercifully saves.

Yet, even after God’s deliverance, Israel fails to truly repent. Though God grants relief, they do not change their ways. Over time, Israel loses more territory and becomes increasingly vulnerable, showing the slow, destructive impact of unrepentant sin. This cycle warns us of the consequences of resisting true heart change, even when we see God’s mercy at work.

This repeated cycle mirrors the warning found in Romans 1:21-28, where Paul describes how God “gave them over” to their sinful desires. When we persist in sin, God may allow us to experience the consequences of that path. In other words, if we insist on holding onto sin, He may “give us over” to it. As the enemy gains ground, we lose the peace, joy, and blessing that come from God’s presence.

This section of 2 Kings stands as a warning to us today: if we reject God’s guidance, we risk losing the peace and joy He desires for us. However, the chapter also reveals God’s kindness and mercy. Even when Israel cries out to God without fully repenting, He still delivers them from their oppression. Yet, without genuine repentance, they remain trapped, allowing sin to continue its destructive influence.

After Jehoahaz’s death, his son Joash continues in the same pattern. Joash acknowledges God but lacks a fully devoted heart. This is illustrated through two unusual stories with the prophet Elisha:

Elisha instructs Joash to strike the ground with arrows, symbolizing the extent of victory he desires from God. Joash, however, strikes the ground only three times, showing his half-hearted commitment. This story reveals Joash’s limited faith and devotion, much like his father’s. His acknowledgment of God lacks full surrender, which limits the victory that God could have granted.

When a dead man’s body touches Elisha’s bones, the man comes back to life. This miraculous event points to God’s power to bring life even amid Israel's spiritual decay. Though Elisha is gone, God’s power and faithfulness remain active.

These two stories frame Israel’s struggle with sin and show the hope of restoration. Even in the face of disobedience, God’s resurrection power is at work. His compassion endures, and His covenant with His people remains intact.

Even in our sin, God’s mercy is available to us. The story of Israel’s repeated sin, judgment, and deliverance encourages us to turn to God in complete surrender, seeking His strength to break free from the cycles of sin in our lives.

Reflection Questions:

1. Israel continued in sin despite God’s repeated deliverance. Are there areas in your life where you’ve experienced God’s mercy but struggled to turn from sin fully?  What steps can you take to flee from sin and remove yourself from temptation?

2. Romans 1 warns that God may “give us over” to sin if we persist in it. How does this influence your view of sin’s impact on your life and relationship with God?  Are there “small” sins you need to address to prevent them from taking root in your heart?

3. Joash’s half-hearted devotion limited his victories. In what ways do you acknowledge God but lack full commitment?  How can you fully surrender to God daily?

4. The resurrection story shows God’s power at work even when Israel had fallen away. How does God’s faithfulness, even in times of disobedience, give you hope?

2 Kings 14

Amaziah, son of Joash, takes the throne in Judah. He starts out doing what is right in the eyes of the Lord, but his heart is not fully devoted. Amaziah’s main issue is pride and arrogance. Rather than relying on God, he begins to trust in his personal achievements. After defeating the Edomites, his pride grows, and he picks a fight with Israel, leading to a disastrous defeat. The temple is raided, and both Amaziah and the king of Israel, Joash, ultimately face the consequences of their actions.

Amaziah’s story warns us that pride and self-reliance, even in the lives of those who do “what is right,” can lead to spiritual and personal downfall. His example reminds us that obedience to God must be matched by humility and dependence on Him, not on our own success or achievements.

As each new king rises, we see a tragic cycle in Israel and Judah: God’s faithfulness is repeatedly met with rebellion. Instead of drawing closer to God, the kings lead the people deeper into sin, turning away from God’s guidance. The deeper Judah and Israel sink into idolatry and pride, the further they drift from the covenant with God, pushing the nation toward exile.

God’s repeated faithfulness—even when His people reject Him—calls us to reflect on our own responses to His grace. Are we moved to deeper devotion and humility, or do we, like Amaziah, let our hearts turn to self-reliance and pride?

During this time, God sends prophets like Amos to warn Israel and Judah about the consequences of their actions. In Amos 6:1-8, the prophet confronts the people’s complacency, pride, and empty worship. The issue is no longer about obvious idolatry, like Baal worship, but about spiritual laziness, drunkenness, pride, and superficial celebrations. God’s people are going through religious motions—empty feasts, shallow gatherings, and hollow sacrifices. Just as Romans 1 warns that God “gives people over” to their sinful desires when they persist in sin, here we see that God may also give people over to religious complacency and superficial living.

This is a powerful warning for us today. If we live self-centered, lazy lives, God may allow us to experience the consequences of that lifestyle. If we treat worship, prayer, or communion as mere rituals, He may let us feel the emptiness of empty traditions. If church becomes about entertainment rather than devotion, we may experience a spiritual dryness or even feel God’s presence withdraw.

May we choose a heart devoted to God rather than a life of superficial obedience. God calls us to deep, meaningful worship and devotion—a relationship that impacts every area of our lives. We can choose to walk closely with God, experiencing the fullness of His presence and blessing, or we can let pride, laziness, and superficial religion lead us into spiritual exile.

As the story of Amaziah teaches us, choosing self-reliance, pride, or empty rituals over true devotion leads us further from God and blinds us to His truth. The invitation is clear: turn to Christ and seek a heart that genuinely desires Him.

Reflection Questions:

1. Amaziah did what was right, but pride and self-reliance led to his downfall. Are there areas in your life where you tend to rely more on your achievements or status than on God?

2. How can you shift your focus back to humble dependence on God? Israel and Judah’s cycle of sin and rebellion in response to God’s faithfulness reflects the danger of taking God’s grace for granted.

3. Amos warns against complacency, empty worship, and shallow celebrations. Are there areas of your spiritual life that have become routine or lack sincere devotion?

4. Romans 1 speaks of God “giving people over” to their sinful desires, even in religious practices. Are there habits, attitudes, or “acceptable sins” in your life that you need to bring to God in repentance?

5. How can you seek a heart fully devoted to God rather than just outward behavior?

6. Are you willing to surrender your pride, self-reliance, or complacency to experience a closer walk with God?

2 Kings 11-12

Pastor Marshall Ochs | October 27, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Kings 11-12. These chapters cover the biblical narrative of Athaliah's corruption and the preservation of the Davidic line through Jehosheba, emphasizing God's faithfulness in turmoil. Despite Athaliah's efforts to eradicate the seed of David, God works through ordinary individuals to fulfill His promises. The narrative warns against superficial reforms without true heart devotion to God, illustrating how Israel's reliance on outward change rather than covenant faithfulness leads to cycles of sin and chaos.

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2 Kings 11

Athaliah, the mother of Ahaziah, seizes power after her son’s death. Her first act as queen is to kill all her grandsons—potential heirs to the throne of Judah. Her ruthless actions raise a troubling question: what about the Messiah? God had promised that a Savior would come from the line of David. If Athaliah’s plan succeeds, it appears that David’s lineage could be wiped out.

The story invites us to wrestle with questions of faith: Can God’s promises withstand times of intense tribulation? Can one person’s evil actions thwart His divine plan? These questions remind us that people have wrestled with the same doubts throughout history.

In the face of Athaliah’s massacre, God raises up an unlikely hero—Jehosheba, a young woman who quietly rescues her nephew, Joash, and hides him from the murderous queen. This act of courage preserves David's lineage. Just as Miriam protected Moses and Mary protected Jesus, Jehosheba becomes part of God’s plan to safeguard the promise of a Savior.

Jehosheba’s faith and obedience show us that God doesn’t always work through grand miracles; often, He fulfills His purposes through ordinary people's faithful obedience. This story challenges us to rethink what it means to be “people of faith.” We believe God works through extraordinary events, but we also believe He works through our ordinary obedience and even through actions that may seem insignificant at the time.

For seven years, it seemed that Athaliah’s wickedness had triumphed and that the line of David had ended. But while Athaliah ruled as queen, God’s promise was alive and growing in secret. Joash, the rightful heir, was being hidden and nurtured until the right time. At the age of seven, with the guidance of Jehoiada, the priest, Joash was crowned as the rightful king, and Athaliah’s reign came to an end.

This scene parallels the story in 2 Kings 9-10, where Jehu overthrows Jezebel and wipes out Baal worship in the northern kingdom. Now, Jehoiada, the priest, orchestrates the downfall of Athaliah and brings an end to Baal worship in Judah. God’s timing and purposes prevail, even when all seems lost.

The victory over Athaliah raises a critical question: Are the people truly committed to Yahweh or merely seeking a different ruler? It’s one thing to replace an evil leader; it’s another to be genuinely transformed. This story reminds us that outward actions alone are not enough—God desires genuine faith and heart change.

As we reflect on this passage, we are called to examine our own motivations. Do we seek God’s kingdom for what it truly is, or do we merely want circumstances to change to suit our desires?

Reflection Questions:

• Jehosheba’s courage and obedience preserved God’s promise. Are there areas in your life where God is calling you to be faithful, even if it seems small or unnoticed?

• How can you find confidence that God can use your ordinary obedient actions to fulfill His purposes?

• Joash, the promised king, grew in secret until the right time. Are there aspects of God’s work in your life that you cannot yet see?

• When Athaliah ruled, it appeared God’s promise had been broken, yet God was still at work. Have you ever felt that God’s promises were at risk due to difficult circumstances?

• How can you remind yourself of God’s faithfulness during times of trial or doubt?

• Jehoiada, the priest, executed a plan to bring the true king to the throne. Who are the “faithful leaders” in your life who help guide you toward God’s promises?

• How can you lean on Godly mentors or trusted spiritual leaders to help you stay in step with the Holy Spirit?

2 Kings 12

In 2 Kings 12, we encounter Joash, a king of Judah who “did what was right” in the eyes of the Lord. However, his obedience was partial—Joash removed Baal worship but allowed the high places of worship to remain. These high places were locations where people worshiped both pagan gods and, at times, Yahweh.

Joash’s incomplete reforms reflect a problem that ran deeper than outward actions. The people had become accustomed to outward religion without true devotion. Joash’s failure to remove the high places shows us that true faith goes beyond surface-level obedience. It involves a heart fully devoted to God, not just partial obedience.

Joash saw the need to repair the temple—a noble and important task. But even with the building project underway, something was missing: a genuine, whole-hearted devotion to God. The first temple’s construction under Solomon was marked by a theme of devoted hearts (1 Kings 2:4, 3:6, 8:23). In contrast, Joash’s project focused only on external repairs.

After the repairs were completed, tribulation hit, and Syria began to conquer Judah’s land. Rather than seeking the Lord or turning to prayer, Joash responded by paying off the enemy with treasures from the temple. This act shows a troubling pattern: a reliance on manipulation without true dependence on God. When faced with challenges, Joash’s first response was to rely on bribes instead of God, revealing the absence of a true heart devotion.

Joash’s reign highlights a recurring issue in Israel’s history. With each new leader, the people of Judah seemed to spiral further into sin, focusing on external reform while neglecting the inner heart change that comes from a life wholly devoted to God. As a result, the kingdom’s leaders had fewer and fewer words of wisdom and godly instruction, indicating a spiritual drift away from covenant faithfulness.

This passage warns us against trusting in human leaders or movements that promise change without calling for deep heart transformation. Outward transformation without inner change leads to superficial spirituality, and without true devotion, God’s people become vulnerable to compromise and idolatry.

This serves as a reminder that our devotion is not just about external actions or religious habits; it’s about knowing and living God’s Word with a devoted heart. If we, as God’s people today, lose sight of His Word, we risk falling into the same patterns. Outward religion without inward devotion leads to a life that may look good on the surface but lacks the deep, abiding relationship with God that He desires.

Reflection Questions:

• Joash did “what was right” but didn’t fully obey God. Are there areas in your life where your obedience to God is partial or surface-level?

• What steps can you take to bring all areas of your life under God’s guidance?

• Joash repaired the temple but did not pursue a truly devoted heart. Are there “high places” in your life—habits or influences that distract from your relationship with God?

• How can you identify and remove these high places, focusing instead on whole-hearted devotion?

• When trouble came, Joash relied on a bribe rather than turning to God in prayer. How do you respond when facing difficulties?

• In what ways can you seek God first, trusting Him to guide you through challenges rather than relying on quick fixes or manipulation?

• Covenant faithfulness calls for knowing and living God’s Word. How much time do you spend in Scripture, seeking to understand God’s heart and commands?

• How can you prioritize Bible study and prayer, allowing God’s Word to shape and guide your life?

Throughout 2 Kings, we see the tragic consequences when people settle for superficial religion rather than complete devotion to God. This chapter calls us to examine our own lives and make sure that our faith is not just outward but deeply rooted in God’s Word.

2 Kings 9-10

Pastor Marshall Ochs | October 20, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Kings 9-10. God appoints Jehu to execute judgment on the house of Ahab, highlighting the consequences of sinful alliances between Judah and Israel. Jehu eliminates Baal worship and kills many people, including Jezebel and Ahaziah, but fails to address the ongoing sin of golden calf worship. The story serves as a reminder for believers to fully confront sin without going too far, emphasizing the importance of knowing and obeying God’s Word in all aspects of life.

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2 Kings 9

In 2 Kings 9:1-13, we witness Elisha sending a “son of the prophet”—a young prophet in training—to deliver God’s message to Jehu. This moment ties back to previous prophecies in 1 Kings 19:15-17 and 1 Kings 21:19-24, where God declared that the house of Ahab would face judgment for its wickedness. Now, the time for judgment has come, and Jehu is the man called by God to bring it about.

Jehu is anointed king over Israel and given a divine mandate: clean house by destroying the house of Ahab. As we read about Jehu’s call to root out evil, we are reminded of our own call to “clean house” in our lives, especially when it comes to sin.

Just as Jehu was called to cleanse Israel of Ahab’s wicked influence, we, too, are called by God to clean house in our own lives. In the New Testament, we are commanded to put sin to death. Colossians 3:5 calls us to “put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature.” Galatians 5:24 says, “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires,” and Romans 8:13 reminds us that by the Spirit, we are to put to death the deeds of the body.

But what does this look like in practice? Is it enough to feel bad about our sin? To say sorry and move on? Or are we, like Jehu, called to go further? Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:29-30 that if our eye or hand causes us to stumble, we should tear it out or cut it off. This metaphorical language reveals the seriousness with which we should approach sin. True repentance requires decisive action. It’s not enough to feel remorse; we must take steps to remove the source of sin in our lives, no matter the cost.

Several years ago, I came across a statement in a commentary that has stayed with me ever since. It said something along the lines of this: We should treat sin like a poisonous snake, not like a piece of candy.

As we read this story of Jehu, we see that he had a difficult task ahead of him. He was called to root out corruption, and idolatry that had plagued Israel. His obedience would mean judgment on Ahab’s house, but it was necessary for the cleansing of the nation. In the same way, we are called to make hard choices when it comes to sin in our lives. How far are we willing to go to put sin to death? Jehu had a specific mission from God to carry out, but we are given a similar mission in our own hearts and lives. Repentance isn’t just feeling bad—it’s taking real action to root out sin and live in obedience to God’s will.

Sin clouds our judgment in our lives, leading us down paths of poor choices. But God’s grace continually calls us back, reminding us that His purposes will be accomplished. The question for us is, what is standing in the way? What sins, habits, or influences are preventing us from fully experiencing the abundant life God promises?

Reflection Questions:

• Jehu was anointed and called by God to bring judgment to the house of Ahab. Are there areas in your life where God is calling you to take action against sin?

• What steps can you take to “clean house” and remove sinful habits or influences in your life?

• Scripture commands us to put sin to death, not just feel bad about it. Are there sins you’ve been tolerating or excusing instead of dealing with them seriously?

• How can you follow Jesus’ teaching to take radical steps to remove the sources of temptation or sin?

• Jehu’s obedience to God’s call was a difficult but necessary act of judgment. In what ways do you find it challenging to obey God when it requires making difficult or uncomfortable decisions?

• How can you rely on God’s strength to take the steps He’s calling you to make?

• Just as Jehu was given a specific mission, we, too, are called to “crucify the flesh” with its sinful desires. What practical actions can you take this week to live out that calling?

• How can you seek accountability and support from others to help you in your journey of putting sin to death?

• Jehu was called to bring judgment and cleansing to the nation, and we are called to live lives of holiness. What does it mean to you to live in daily repentance and holiness before God?

• In what ways can you ask the Holy Spirit to guide and empower you in your pursuit of holiness?

2 Kings 10

In 2 Kings 10, we see Jehu on a mission to purge Israel of idolatry and sin. After being anointed king, Jehu goes on a warpath, executing the kings of both Israel and Judah, killing Jezebel, and sending word to slaughter the 70 sons of Ahab. In his quest, Jehu wipes out the house of Ahab, destroys all the prophets and followers of Baal, and crushes Baal worship in Israel.

On the surface, it seems like a decisive victory for Yahweh. Jehu’s actions appear to be fueled by a “zeal for the Lord” (2 Kings 10:16), and his efforts to eradicate Baal worship seem commendable. By all accounts, Jehu’s mission looks like a massive success.

However, the story turns when we realize Jehu didn’t go far enough. While he successfully eliminated Baal worship, he left the worship of the golden calves untouched. These idols, introduced by Jeroboam, had been a snare for Israel for generations. Jehu’s partial obedience is exposed—he removed foreign gods but allowed Israel’s historical sins to remain. His zeal was incomplete, and as a result, Israel remained entrenched in sin.

Ironically, in other matters, Jehu went too far. While he was praised in 2 Kings 10:30 for carrying out the Lord’s will against Ahab’s house, Hosea 1:4 reveals that Jehu was later punished for the bloodshed at Jezreel. Why? Because of his zeal, Jehu also killed Ahaziah, the king of Judah, a descendant of David—something that God never commanded. In his effort to execute justice, Jehu crossed the line, shedding innocent blood and disobeying the Lord.

Are we careful not to confuse personal preferences with sin issues, going too far and harming others in the process? Jehu’s story challenges us to reflect on these questions. We are called to eliminate sin from our lives, but according to God’s Word, we must avoid both extremes of not going far enough and going too far.

Reflection Questions:

• Jehu was praised for his zeal, but his partial obedience left room for sin. Are there areas in your life where you are being “partially obedient” to God’s commands?

• What steps can you take to fully address the sin in your life, rather than leaving parts of it untouched?

• Jehu went too far in killing Ahaziah, crossing a line that God did not command. Are there areas in your life where you’ve confused your own opinions or preferences with God’s commands?

• We are called to put all sins to death, not just the obvious ones like greed or lust. What are the “golden calves” in your life—those less obvious sins you’ve tolerated?

• How can you confront and remove those sins, even if they seem minor or culturally accepted?

• Jehu’s zeal resulted in both obedience and disobedience. How can you balance your zeal for righteousness with humility and grace, ensuring you don’t “swing the sword” too wildly?

• This story shows that both not going far enough and too far are forms of disobedience. How can you avoid both extremes by faithfully obeying God’s Word?

• What practical steps can you take to stay grounded in Scripture, allowing God’s Word to guide all things?