Revival Begins With A Return To God’s Word Series

REVIVAL BEGINS WITH A RETURN TO GOD’S WORD

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 2 Kings 22:1-20

Supporting Texts: Psalm 119:9-11; Nehemiah 8:1-12; James 1:22-25; Hosea 4:6; Matthew 4:4

INTRODUCTION:

2 Kings 22 introduces us to one of Judah’s most remarkable kings—Josiah, who began to reign at just eight years old. Despite ascending the throne at a tender age and being born into a legacy of wicked rulers like Manasseh and Amon, Josiah's heart was different. The Bible records that he "did what was right in the eyes of the Lord" (v.2). This chapter reveals how a young leader can bring about national revival through reverence for God's Word.

During the process of repairing the temple, the Book of the Law was rediscovered—a scroll that had been neglected for many years. When Josiah heard the words, his response was immediate and sincere: he tore his garments in grief and humility, recognising how far the nation had drifted from God's commandments. What followed was a revival that started not with fanfare or emotion, but with a return to Scripture and a trembling before God’s truth.

This chapter teaches us that true revival begins when God’s Word is rediscovered, honoured, and obeyed. No matter the state of a nation, a people, or a family, restoration is possible when hearts return to God's voice.

1. A TENDER HEART CAN CHANGE A NATION

Josiah’s heart was sensitive to God from a young age.

a) He became king at eight, but chose righteousness in a wicked generation (v.1–2)

Spiritual maturity is not about age, but the condition of the heart.

b) He walked in the ways of David, not turning to the right or left

Josiah refused to follow the idolatrous path of his father and grandfather.

c) God seeks hearts that are loyal, humble, and obedient

Even one sincere heart can bring national transformation.

d) A leader's devotion to God has ripple effects on the people they serve

When leadership honours God, revival becomes possible.

Biblical Example: Timothy, though young, became a spiritual giant under Paul’s mentorship (1 Timothy 4:12).

2. TRUE REVIVAL BEGINS WITH A RETURN TO THE HOUSE OF GOD

Josiah ordered repairs on the temple, which had fallen into neglect.

a) He valued the worship centre and invested in its restoration (v.3–7)

Neglecting the house of God is often a sign of spiritual decline.

b) Faithful workers were assigned to oversee the work honestly

Revival thrives where integrity and stewardship are present.

c) Physical restoration often precedes spiritual awakening

Clearing physical ruins makes space for divine presence.

d) Honouring God’s house reflects a heart that desires God's presence

The temple was where the Word was rediscovered—revival followed.

Biblical Example: Nehemiah rebuilt the walls and led the people to spiritual renewal (Nehemiah 1-8).

3. THE WORD OF GOD IS CENTRAL TO GENUINE REVIVAL

The Book of the Law was found during the repairs.

a) Hilkiah the high priest found the Book of the Law in the temple (v.8)

God’s Word can be hidden for a season, but it is never lost.

b) Shaphan read it aloud, beginning the chain of revival

Hearing God’s Word ignites conviction and repentance.

c) The rediscovery of Scripture signifies a divine invitation to return

God allows His Word to surface when hearts are ready to obey.

d) Revival starts when the Word is no longer ignored, but exalted

Scripture is not just a document—it is a voice calling us home.

Biblical Example: Ezra read the Book of the Law publicly, and the people wept and repented (Nehemiah 8:5-9).

4. A BROKEN AND REPENTANT HEART ATTRACTS GOD’S MERCY

Josiah’s response to the Word was immediate and heartfelt.

a) He tore his clothes as a sign of grief and repentance (v.11)

Spiritual brokenness is the appropriate response to conviction.

b) He sent leaders to inquire of the Lord through the prophetess Huldah (v.12–14)

He humbled himself to seek prophetic direction.

c) God's message through Huldah was one of both judgment and mercy (v.15–20)

While the nation had provoked judgment, Josiah’s humility moved God.

d) Because of his tender heart, God postponed judgment until after his death

God honours those who tremble at His Word.

Biblical Example: David repented deeply after being confronted by Nathan and was restored (Psalm 51; 2 Samuel 12:13).

5. THE WORD OF GOD DEMANDS A RESPONSE

God does not speak for entertainment—He speaks for transformation.

a) Josiah didn’t delay—he acted on the Word immediately

Revival is sustained by obedience, not just emotion.

b) He acknowledged the guilt of the nation and interceded on their behalf

Godly leaders take spiritual responsibility.

c) God's Word carries both warning and hope

Ignoring it brings destruction; embracing it brings mercy.

d) Every revival in history began when people responded rightly to God’s Word

God moves where His voice is honoured and obeyed.