(The video is in French, with English subtitles available.)
Jotham, an encouraging example
It is very interesting to compare the two accounts of Jotham’s reign in Kings and Chronicles. In Chronicles we have a general mention that the people still acted corruptly (2 Chron. 27: 2). For the rest, we have a positive presentation of his reign and his works, as well as his walk before the LORD. In the book of Kings we have a more succinct description, mentioning only the construction of the upper gate of the house of the LORD. But we find a more detailed description of the people’s corruption (2 Kings 15:35). Therefore, we also read that in that time the LORD began to send against Judah Rezin and Pekah. In other words, it was because of the corruption of the people, not because of the king himself. Thus, no evil thing is mentioned concerning the reign of Jotham. He was even buried in the city of David, his father!
Yes, Jotham walked in the ways of David in this regard. So, God honoured him with this positive account of his reign, while dealing, in discipline, with the state of the people. Let us be encouraged by the words of the Lord Jesus: “If anyone serve Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there also shall be My servant. And if anyone serve Me, him shall the Father honour” (John 12:26).
Here are three practical lessons we can learn from Jotham’s reign.