Asa: Judah's First Reformer - December 8, 2024 - Bro. Jonathan H.

The exhortation focused on King Asa of Judah, examining his role as "Judah's First Reformer." The speaker began by emphasizing how the Old Testament examples are written for our instruction and encouragement.
The talk examined Asa's background and family context - his father Abijam only reigned 3 years and "did evil in the sight of the Lord," while his grandmother Maachah was described as wicked and idolatrous. However, unlike his predecessors, Asa chose to forge his own righteous path.
Over his 41-year reign, Asa implemented major reforms including removing idols, restoring proper temple worship, building up Judah's defenses during peacetime, and organizing a national religious revival. The speaker emphasized how Asa's successful military campaigns demonstrated his reliance on God rather than human strength.
While Asa had some failures later in life, particularly making an alliance with Syria instead of trusting God, and harshly imprisoning a prophet who rebuked him, the Bible still concludes that "Asa's heart was perfect with the Lord all his days." This was presented as an encouraging example that God looks at the overall direction and intent of our hearts despite our individual failings.
The speaker concluded by connecting Asa's example to Christ and the memorial service, emphasizing how we too must sometimes choose to break from ungodly influences around us and stay focused on following God's ways. Just as Asa built defenses in times of peace, we need to build spiritual defenses against sin through consistent faithful living.