Reformation and Desolation

Stephen Marshall (1594–1655) was known as a learned scholar and writer, a Presbyterian, and a faithful Reformed minister of Christ’s Gospel.

Beginning with the reformation under king Josiah in 2 Kings 23:25-26, Marshall shows that the idea of reformation is simply a nickname for zealous and unwavering biblical sanctification. King Josiah found great success in all he did to overthrow the idolatry and false worship of the nation once he read God’s instructions for holiness out of the book of the Law, which had been lost. As a result, Josiah started a nation-wide reformation. Notwithstanding, Marshall shows that even amidst the greatest reformation of the Old Testament, the Lord did not turn away from the fierceness of his great wrath. Though Josiah was met by God with great success, the people ultimately met with God’s displeasure because of their former sins under Manasseh. Reformation turned to desolation. Can this happen today? Do Christians expect to see reformation occur in their lives?