#1 The Fall of Jerusalem: Josiah and Jehoiakim

As Judah's last godly king, Josiah undertook significant reforms, most notably repairing the temple. (As we shall see, the temple is an important theme during this period of biblical history.) Yet Josiah disobeyed the Lord and picked a fight with mighty Egypt and its Pharaoh, Neco II. He lost not only the battle but his life.

After his defeat to the Babylonians, Pharaoh Neco returns to Judah. He imprisons Jehoahaz and makes his brother the new King, imposing tribute. Jehoiakim follows his ancestors in the paths of wickedness. Yet, the Lord shows kindness by sending the prophet Jeremiah to warn him. How will he respond? Like his father Josiah, who tore his clothes as a sign of repentance when he heard the Word of the Lord from the found scroll, or will he follow his wicked brother?