July 13

2 Chronicles 27; Isaiah 9-12 (biblegateway.com)

A Faithful King and the Coming King: Hope Amid Darkness

In a time marked by instability and growing rebellion in Israel and Judah, 2 Chronicles 27 introduces us to King Jotham, who walked faithfully with God, though his people did not follow his example. Meanwhile, Isaiah 9-12 gives us a prophecy of hope that looks beyond the immediate turmoil to an everlasting kingdom. These chapters are rich with contrast, including judgment and joy, exile and restoration, and arrogance and peace, all pointing to the ultimate rule of the Messiah. Together, these passages remind us that while human kings may rise and fall, God’s promise of a righteous, Spirit-filled King will never fail.

2 Chronicles 27 - Jotham: Faithfulness Amidst a Corrupt People

Jotham, the son of Uzziah, began his reign over Judah at the age of twenty-five and ruled for sixteen years in Jerusalem (v. 1). Jotham reigned from 750-732 B.C., overlapping with both his father Uzziah and his son Ahaz. During Uzziah’s leprosy (750-740 B.C.), Jotham served as co-regent, and later ruled jointly with Ahaz from 735-732 B.C. For six of those years, he governed as sole monarch. The “sixteen years” mentioned in this passage (and in verse 8) likely refer to his time as co-regent with Uzziah and his independent rule. When his four years of co-regency with Ahaz are included, his total time in power spans approximately twenty years (2 Kings 15:30).

Jotham’s mother, Jerushah, daughter of Zadok, a priestly lineage, may have played a role in his godly upbringing. The Chronicler quickly commends Jotham, stating he did what was right in the sight of the Lord, following the good example of his father, though without repeating Uzziah’s grievous error of entering the temple to offer incense unlawfully (v. 2; 2 Chron. 26:16-21). This restraint shows that Jotham was not only obedient but also wise, understanding the boundaries of his role as king and allowing the priests to fulfill their God-given office.

Yet, despite Jotham’s personal faithfulness, “the people still acted corruptly” (v.2b). This contrast between the righteousness of the leader and the rebellion of the people highlights a critical tension in Judah’s spiritual life. It’s a reminder that while leadership matters greatly, national revival requires the response of the people. This lingering corruption would later flourish under his son Ahaz’s rule.

Jotham’s reign was marked not only by spiritual integrity but also by practical wisdom and national development. He initiated significant building projects, including the construction of the upper gate of the temple of the Lord, likely serving both ceremonial and defensive purposes by improving access and enhancing security (v. 3; 2 Chron. 23:20). Beyond the temple, he invested in strategic infrastructure across Judah: strengthening cities in the hill country and erecting fortresses and towers in the forested regions, likely as a precaution against enemy invasion (v. 4). His efforts also included work on the Ophel wall, which fortified the old city of Jerusalem (33:14), and he appears to have continued and expanded upon many of the building initiatives started by his father, Uzziah.

Militarily, Jotham proved capable and victorious. He went to war against the Ammonites and subdued them, exacting a tribute of 100 talents of silver, 10,000 measures of wheat, and 10,000 of barley, for three successive years (v. 5). The tribute paid by the Ammonites was remarkably large—comparable to what the Assyrians later demanded from Judah during Hezekiah’s reign (2 Kings 18:14-17). A hundred talents of silver equaled over three tons, while the ten thousand cors of wheat and barley each amounted to roughly sixty-five thousand bushels. This economic gain helped stabilize Judah and may have deterred other enemies. More importantly, it affirmed that the Lord was with him.

Verse 6 gives the key to his success: “So Jotham became mighty, because he ordered his ways before the Lord his God.” This phrase encapsulates Jotham’s legacy. His might was not rooted in ambition or warfare, but in his steady, disciplined obedience to God. The chapter concludes with a brief mention of the rest of his acts, recorded in the Book of the Kings of Israel and Judah (v. 7). He died peacefully and was buried in the City of David, and his son Ahaz succeeded him (v. 9). Though not much is said about his emotional character or personal relationships, Jotham’s legacy stands in sharp contrast to the chaos that would follow under Ahaz.

Unlike the accounts of the kings from Joash to Uzziah, which present a mixture of obedience and disobedience, the Chronicler, here, offers an entirely positive assessment of Jotham’s reign. This favorable portrayal is immediately contrasted with a negative depiction of Ahaz in chapter 28. The narrative emphasizes that faithfulness to God leads to success, whether in building projects or in military endeavors, a key message for the postexilic community seeking to rebuild their lives in the Promised Land

Jotham exemplifies quiet faithfulness. He did not perform spectacular reforms like Hezekiah, nor did he leave a long prophetic legacy. Yet he walked faithfully, governed wisely, strengthened his nation, and honored the Lord’s boundaries. However, his reign also reminds us of a painful truth: one person’s righteousness doesn’t always lead to collective revival. Though Jotham “ordered his ways before the Lord,” the people persisted in corruption. Jotham lived faithfully, but he couldn’t force Judah to follow.

Jotham’s life reminds us that personal integrity matters, especially in a culture that drifts from God. Even when the broader society compromises, we are called to remain faithful in our personal walk, our families, and our spheres of influence. But Jotham also teaches us to lead within limits. He respected the temple boundaries and did not overstep his role. In the same way, leaders today, whether pastors, parents, or public officials, must serve with humility, not control, trusting God to handle what only He can. Finally, we learn not to measure success by popularity. Jotham wasn’t a revivalist and didn’t see sweeping reform, but he lived righteously. Obedience that goes unnoticed by the world is still success in God’s eyes. In all these ways, Jotham challenges us to walk faithfully, even when results are quiet and unseen.

Isaiah 9-12 From Darkness to Divine Dawn: A Journey into Christ’s Kingdom

After the reign of Jotham, king of Judah, we turn to the prophet Isaiah, who ministered during this period of growing instability. Isaiah was a prophet who ministered in Judah during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah (Isaiah 1:1). As we move into Isaiah 9–12, we see both warning and comfort. God still speaks through His prophet, not just to Judah and King Jotham’s people, but to all Israel. These chapters point forward to the coming Messiah and remind us that even in seasons of decline or discipline, God is still at work, moving toward restoration.

Isaiah 9 — The Dawn of Messianic Hope in a Dark World

Isaiah 9 is one of the most significant Messianic prophecies in the Old Testament. Coming after warnings of judgment and darkness (Isaiah 8), this chapter offers a dramatic turn: a promise of hope, light, and a righteous King. The text speaks to Israel’s situation in the 8th century BC, but its fullest fulfillment is found in Jesus Christ.

Isaiah 9 begins against a backdrop of political turmoil, as Israel lies in deep darkness, under the Assyrian shadow. However, the regions of Zebulun and Naphtali, areas first devastated by the Assyrian invasion, will be the very places where God’s light breaks through. “There will be no gloom for her who was in anguish” (v. 1). The gloom that fell on northern Israel was the result of God’s discipline. He humbled the lands of Zebulun and Naphtali for a season. Though Isaiah likely used these tribal names to represent the broader Northern Kingdom, it’s remarkable that Jesus would later live and begin His ministry in that very region near the Sea of Galilee. His presence brought honor and hope to a place once marked by judgment.

The phrase “the way of the sea” refers to a major trade and military route that passed through the region, a term well known in Assyrian and Egyptian records, though only used once in Scripture. Assyrian forces likely used this route during their invasion of Israel.

The imagery intensifies: the people walking in darkness will see a great light, and those living in the land of deep darkness will experience a radiant dawn (v. 2). The yoke that burdened them, the rod of their oppressor and the staff of their taskmaster, will be shattered as on the day of Midian’s defeat (v. 4). This alludes to Gideon’s victory over the Midianites (Judges 7), a battle won not by might but by God’s power. The Midianite oppression in the middle of the Judges period had been some five hundred years earlier, but it still stood as the most outstanding example of God’s ability to bring deliverance against overwhelming odds. It is clear that the reference is to that particular defeat of Midian because of the more specific reference in 10:26.

The Lord will shatter the tools of oppression and remove burdens, be they political, spiritual, or personal. As a result, every warrior’s boot and blood-stained garment, symbols of war and violence, will be burned like fuel for a fire (v. 5). Joy and deliverance will replace sorrow and oppression, bringing peace where there was once conflict. This is not just poetic beauty; it’s a divine promise for hearts and nations crushed by aggression and despair.

Then comes the promise: a child is born and a son is given. The language emphasizes both His humanity (“a child is born”) and divinity (“a son is given”). The child is born into the world, but the Son is given from heaven—God’s eternal Son taking on flesh. These verses form the heart of the chapter and a cornerstone of Messianic prophecy. “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given” (v. 6). His names reflect His divine character and kingly authority: He is called Wonderful Counselor (divine wisdom), Mighty God (divine power), Everlasting Father (eternal caring), and Prince of Peace (reconciliation with God and between people).

Verse 7 proclaims the eternal and righteous reign of this Davidic King. “Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end.” He will uphold justice and righteousness “from this time forth and forevermore.” This directly fulfills the Davidic covenant (2 Samuel 7:12-16), and confirms the messianic nature of Jesus, who reigns now in heaven and will return to consummate His kingdom (Revelation 11:15). And how will this come to pass? “The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this” (v. 7b). Not by human politics, power, or effort—but by God’s passionate commitment to His redemptive plan.

In a stark transition, the rest of the chapter shifts back to warning and judgment. Though the first section described a future hope, the current condition of Israel (especially the northern kingdom) is one of arrogance and rebellion. Verses 8–12 describe how prideful Israel refuses to repent, even after divine discipline. They say arrogantly, “The bricks have fallen, but we will build with dressed stones” (v. 10), an attitude of self-reliance rather than humility.

God responds by strengthening their enemies against them—Aram and the Philistines (v. 12). Still, “His anger is not turned away, and His hand is stretched out still,” a refrain repeated through verses 17, 21, and into chapter 10. The people’s hard-heartedness leads to further moral decay and societal breakdown: corrupt leadership (v. 15), lack of compassion (v. 17), and internal violence. The nation would destroy itself by its own wicked deeds. People would oppose each other and devour each other (v. 19-20). By the end of the chapter, even brothers turn against each other—Manasseh against Ephraim, and both against Judah (v. 21). This section serves as a chilling reminder that refusal to repent leads to internal collapse and divine judgment.

Isaiah 9 reveals deep theological truths that anchor our hope. First, Messianic hope is rooted in God’s character; the promised King is both fully human and fully divine, ruling with wisdom, power, everlasting love, and peace. His identity as the “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (v. 6) shows the depth of God’s commitment to redeeming His people. Second, we see that true peace comes through Christ alone, not through military might, human reform, or self-effort, but through the One who transforms hearts and history. Third, judgment is real and deserved. When people persist in pride and sin, God’s justice responds. Yet even His discipline is merciful, meant to lead us back to Him. Finally, God is faithful to His promises. Even in the deepest darkness, He shines a light. His covenant with David and His passion to redeem will never fail.

Isaiah 10 – God’s Sovereign Judgment Against Assyria and Israel

Isaiah 10 continues the prophet’s themes of judgment and justice, focusing first on Israel’s corrupt leadership and then shifting to Assyria, the very nation God uses as an instrument of discipline.

The chapter opens with a denunciation of leaders who enact unjust laws and exploit the vulnerable (v. 1-2), reminding us that God holds all authority accountable, especially those entrusted with the care of the weak. When human systems become instruments of oppression rather than justice, they invite divine judgment (v. 3-4). The theological truth here is that God is a defender of the powerless and a judge of unrighteous power.

Then the spotlight shifts to Assyria (v. 5-11), which God uses as an instrument of His discipline against Israel. Though Assyria is a pagan nation, God is shown to be sovereign even over foreign empires, guiding history to fulfill His purposes. However, Assyria does not act with humility or obedience; it acts with arrogance and pride. This reveals the biblical tension between divine sovereignty and human responsibility: God uses Assyria, but Assyria is still morally accountable.

In verses 12-19, God promises to bring judgment upon Assyria for its prideful boasting. The imagery of God cutting down Assyria like a forest emphasizes His power over the proud. This is a theological warning: even if someone is being used by God, they are not above God’s justice. Pride, especially when it denies God’s hand in success, is always met with divine opposition.

Yet amid this judgment, a message of hope emerges. God promises that a remnant of Israel will return (v. 20-23), not just physically, but spiritually, with renewed faith. This affirms God’s covenant faithfulness and the principle that judgment is not the end for God’s people. The idea of a faithful remnant is later echoed in Romans 9-11, emphasizing that God always preserves a people for Himself. The chapter closes with a poetic vision of Assyria’s threatening advance toward Jerusalem (v. 28-32), only to be suddenly and decisively cut down by God Himself (v. 33-34).

Isaiah 10 reveals several key truths about God’s nature and His work in the world. First, God is sovereign over history, orchestrating events, even using pagan nations like Assyria, to accomplish His purposes. This leads us to recognize that divine justice is always perfect; it may not align with human timing, but it is never unjust or arbitrary. In contrast, human pride inevitably leads to downfall, as seen in Assyria’s arrogance, which brought about its own ruin. Yet amid judgment, God always preserves a faithful remnant, a people who rely on Him rather than on political power or alliances. And ultimately, deliverance is certain for God’s people. He promises to lift burdens and break yokes through His anointed one, bringing hope in even the darkest times.

Isaiah 11 – The Righteous Reign of the Messiah

“Assyria would be like a tree cut down at the height of its power (10:33, 34), never to rise again. Judah (the royal line of David) would be like a tree chopped down to a stump. But from that stump a new shoot would grow—the Messiah. He would be greater than the original tree and would bear much fruit.”

Isaiah 11 presents a striking vision of hope and restoration, introducing the Messiah as the righteous ruler who will emerge from the line of David. Though judgment has fallen (as seen in Isaiah 10), the promise of new life arises from the stump of Jesse (v. 1), a metaphor showing that although David’s royal line appears cut down, God will bring forth a new shoot. This is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is both the descendant of David and the divine King. The Spirit of the Lord rests upon Him (v. 2), empowering Him with wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, and the fear of the Lord—attributes that describe perfect, Spirit-led leadership, in contrast to the corrupt rulers of Isaiah’s day.

This Messianic King will judge not by appearance or status but with righteousness and justice, especially for the poor and meek (v. 3-4). His reign will bring true equity. He will strike down the wicked and uphold the cause of the humble. This highlights a core theological truth: God’s kingdom is not built on power structures or appearances, but on righteousness and truth. His justice is not just corrective but restorative. Righteousness and faithfulness are the foundation of His rule (v. 5), in contrast to the deceit and injustice that marked the kings of Judah and Israel.

Verses 6–9 depict a future of peace so radical that even nature is transformed. Predatory animals live in harmony with their prey, and children play safely among once-dangerous creatures. This is not only poetic imagery, but it also reflects the deep peace and wholeness that characterizes God’s kingdom under the Messiah. Theologically, it points to the reversal of the curse from Genesis 3 and looks forward to the new heavens and new earth. The whole earth will be filled with the knowledge of the Lord as waters cover the sea (v. 9), a powerful vision of the universal spread of God’s glory and truth.

In verses 10-16, Isaiah expands the hope to the nations. The root of Jesse becomes a signal to which all people, not just Israel, will rally (v. 10). This inclusion of Gentiles is fulfilled in Christ, showing that God’s salvation plan has always been global. The remnant of God’s people, scattered through judgment, will be regathered from all corners of the earth (v. 11-12). This regathering not only represents physical restoration but spiritual unity under one King. The old hostilities between tribes (like Ephraim and Judah) will be healed (v. 13), symbolizing peace among God’s people.

The final verses highlight God’s miraculous deliverance, echoing the events of the Exodus (v. 15-16), and underscoring that the same God who once made a path through the sea will do so again. Isaiah is pointing to a future or “second exodus,” when God will gather His scattered people and bring them back to Judah, preparing the way for the Messiah to reign over all the earth. Just as the Lord parted the Red Sea for Israel’s escape from Egypt (Exodus 14) and stopped the Jordan River so they could enter the promised land (Joshua 3), He will once again make a way for His people to return, this time for restoration and the fulfillment of His redemptive plan.

Isaiah 11 challenges us to place our hope not in earthly powers or fleeting leaders, but in the coming King whose rule brings justice, peace, and restoration. It calls us to long for and participate in His kingdom, living with righteousness, working for reconciliation, and proclaiming His reign to the nations. The peaceable kingdom described here is not merely future, it begins now in the hearts and communities of those who follow Christ. And as we live in the already-but-not-yet tension of God’s kingdom, Isaiah 11 reminds us that true and lasting peace comes only through the righteous reign of Jesus.

Isaiah 12 – A Song of Thanksgiving and Praise

Isaiah 12 is a short but powerful chapter that paints a beautiful picture of worship, gratitude, and joy. It comes at the end of a long prophetic arc (Isaiah 10–12) and offers a glimpse of the “day of deliverance,” a time when God will regather His people, and the Messiah will reign in righteousness.

The chapter is structured as two songs of praise, both beginning with the phrase, “In that day you will say” (v. 1, 4). This “day” refers to the future moment when the faithful remnant of Israel is restored and brought back into the land under the rule of the promised King. It’s a moment not just of national restoration, but of deep spiritual rejoicing.

In the first stanza (v. 1-3), the remnant praises God because His righteous anger has passed, and He has brought comfort. They declare that God Himself is their strength, salvation, and song. The mention of “salvation” at both the beginning and end of verse 2 highlights its central role, not just as a personal experience of peace, but as a full, prosperous restoration. Isaiah uses the image of drawing water from the wells of salvation to illustrate life flowing from God’s principles, where His people live in joyful participation with His blessings.

The second stanza (v. 4-6) shifts to public proclamation. The remnant calls on each other to make God’s deeds known among the nations. The purpose is clear: to exalt the Lord’s name and reveal His character to the world. It’s not just about Israel’s joy, but it’s about global testimony. The Holy One of Israel, the same God who judged and refined His people, is now revealed as present among them, and they respond with singing and joy.

Isaiah 12 brings the promises of restoration into sharp focus. It stands as a powerful conclusion to the earlier chapters that warned of judgment and described the fall of empires like Assyria. While human kingdoms crumble, God’s kingdom rises. His promises endure. And one day, all the earth will know of His truth and His faithfulness.

So today, let Isaiah 12 stir your heart. Rejoice in the salvation God offers. Live from the “wells” of His goodness. And don’t keep His greatness to yourself. Declare it, sing it, and let the world know what God has done.

Conclusion

Jotham’s steady faithfulness in a faithless generation stands as a quiet example of godly leadership. Yet even his righteous reign could not bring lasting peace or reform. Isaiah shows us why: the true hope of God’s people would not come through any ordinary king, but through the shoot from the stump of Jesse—a Spirit-anointed ruler whose reign would bring justice, peace, and the knowledge of the Lord to the whole earth. As we reflect on these passages, we’re reminded that God’s plans are not limited by human failure. His promises remain sure. Even when nations tremble and leaders disappoint, God is raising up His King—Jesus, the Prince of Peace—whose kingdom shall never end.