Reduced To Dust (2 Kings 23:15)

 


Monday, 24 November, 2025


Psalms 56; 57

2 Kings 23:4-15

Mark 1:29-39


Observance: Ember Day


Reduced To Dust (2 Kings 23:15)


Moreover, the altar at Bethel, the high place erected by Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel to sin, that altar with the high place he pulled down and burned, reducing it to dust. He also burned the Asherah.


The thing about these Old Testament historical narratives is that we can usually tell if the author approves or disapproves of what are writing about. With Josiah, it seems pretty obvious that all this defilement is seen as a good thing.


In our modern pluralistic society we might find it all a little confronting. Surely ancient Israel was a beacon of progressive inclusivity? Then comes along this nasty, close-minded king who only wants his religion to be followed – it isn’t terribly democratic of him.


Two aspects of the religions banned by Josiah are mentioned here: prostitution, and burning children alive. I am reminded of that social theory about the paradox of tolerance: in order to protect tolerance, that which is intolerant must be excluded.


I think this is true on a spiritual level. On the one hand, we are intellectually confident of the truth of Christianity, and so we can be exposed to other belief systems without risking our faith. But, if anything does end up taking root, we have to rip it out of our heart, defile the altar of false religion, and burn it to the dust. Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life, and none of us can come to the Father except through him.


How comfortable are you in the Lord Jesus? How jealous are you of his place in your heart?


O God of earth and altar, bow down and hear our cry: enthrone yourself as Lord in our hearts, and break down every false altar we may worship at instead of you, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

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