The Captivity of Idol Worship: Jotham and Ahaz

In Ezekiel 18 the prophet explains that if a man is righteous and does what is just and right… he is righteous; he shall surely live.

But if he fathers a son who is violent, a shedder of blood… who lifts up his eyes to the idols… He shall not live. He has done all these abominations; he shall surely die.

Now suppose this man fathers a son who sees all the sins that his father has done; he sees, and does not do likewise… he shall surely live.

Many have wondered:
is the righteous father, Jotham?
is his wicked son, Ahaz?
and is the righteous grandson, Hezekiah?

Obviously, the hypothetical example that Ezekiel gives could have many applications! But the main point addresses the sons of wicked fathers: you do not have to be like your fathers! Repent! And walk in the way of the LORD! And the second point addresses the sons of righteous fathers: Beware! Your father's righteousness cannot deliver you from your own sins!

You see this in our text tonight through Jotham and Ahaz...