“O altar, altar, thus says the Lord: ‘Behold, a son shall be born to the house of David, Josiah by name, and he shall sacrifice on you the priests of the high places who make offerings on you, and human bones shall be burned on you.’” (1 Kings 13:2 ESV).
This is a stunning prophecy given by an unnamed “man of God” from Judah against the altar in Bethel, during King Jeroboam’s reign. Jeroboam had built this altar in defiance of God’s command to worship in Jerusalem. Rather than speak directly to the king, the prophet addresses the altar, symbolizing God’s direct judgment against false worship. He foretells that a son named Josiah, from the house of David, will one day desecrate this altar by burning human bones on it.
This prophecy was fulfilled over 300 years later in 2 Kings 23, when King Josiah brought sweeping reforms. He tore down the high places, defiled the altar at Bethel, and burned the bones of false priests upon it, just as foretold. The specificity of this prophecy is astounding. Josiah is named centuries in advance, and the actions he would take are precisely described. This reveals the amazing foreknowledge of God. His Word does not fail, even if its fulfillment seems delayed. It also shows that judgment belongs to the rightful king from David’s line. Jeroboam’s man-made religion could not escape the authority of God’s chosen king.
We are reminded that God knows the end from the beginning. Nothing surprises Him. When evil seems to go unchecked, we must not lose heart. Judgment belongs to the Son of David, Jesus Christ. Just as Josiah brought justice and restoration in his day, Jesus will one day set all things right. We can trust that God’s Word will be fulfilled. Let us walk in humble obedience, holding fast to His promises.
PRAYER: Dear Father, we praise You for Your perfect knowledge and faithfulness. You see the end from the beginning, and Your Word never fails. Help us trust You even when we don’t see immediate justice. Strengthen us to live faithfully under the rule of Your Son, Jesus Christ. In His name we pray, amen.