21 But Neco sent messengers to him, saying , " What have we to do with each other, O King of Judah ? I am not coming against you today but against the house with which I am at war , and God has ordered me to hurry . Stop for your own sake from interfering with God who is with me, so that He will not destroy you."
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 2 Chronicles 35:21
Commentary on 2 Chronicles 35:20-27
(Read 2 Chronicles 35:20-27)
The Scripture does not condemn Josiah's conduct in opposing Pharaoh. Yet Josiah seems to deserve blame for not inquiring of the Lord after he was warned; his death might be a rebuke for his rashness, but it was a judgment on a hypocritical and wicked people. He that lives a life of repentance, faith, and obedience, cannot be affected by the sudden manner in which he is removed. The people lamented him. Many mourn over sufferings, who will not forsake the sins that caused God to send them. Yet this alone can turn away judgments. If we blame Josiah's conduct, we should be watchful, lest we be cut down in a way dishonourable to our profession.