2 Chronicles·Chapter 35

How to Apply

To live out this verse, think about how you can celebrate your own history and traditions this week. Maybe you can gather friends or family for a meal and share stories about your past—what you’ve overcome or what makes your family unique. Create a space for reflection and gratitude, just like the people did during Passover. This could be as simple as lighting a candle and taking a moment to remember the good things in your life or even starting a new tradition that honors where you come from. Let it be a time of connection and celebration!

Chapter Context

To really get what’s happening here, let’s zoom out a bit. Josiah had just led a massive spiritual revival in Judah. He cleaned up the temple, eliminated idol worship, and brought people back to true worship. So, this Passover celebration is like the grand finale of all that hard work! It’s the first time in a long time that the people are genuinely coming together to remember how they were saved from slavery in Egypt. This verse is the kickoff to a joyful celebration that shows how far they've come. It’s a pivotal moment that demonstrates not just a ritual but a deep, communal return to their roots and a commitment to their faith moving forward.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• josiah - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• kept - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• passover - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• lord - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• jerusalem - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• slaughtered - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• passover - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• lamb - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• fourteenth - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• first - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What traditions or memories in your life have shaped who you are today, and how can you honor them in your own way?

Related Verses

• Exodus 12:1-14 - This is where the Passover tradition began, detailing how the Israelites were saved from slavery in Egypt. It sets the stage for why Josiah’s celebration is so significant.
• 2 Kings 23:21-23 - This verse shows Josiah’s commitment to celebrating Passover, highlighting how he restored the practice after years of neglect, connecting deeply with the heart of worship.
• Deuteronomy 16:1-8 - This gives instructions for celebrating Passover, emphasizing the importance of remembrance and community, tying directly to the actions of Josiah.
• Jeremiah 31:31 - Written about 600 years before Josiah, this prophecy speaks of a new covenant, hinting at a future where people will be transformed from within, showcasing the hope that drives these celebrations.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in 2 Chronicles 35:1. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Restoration of Worship, Obedience to God, Community Participation, Generosity in Sacrifice, Historical Significance, Leadership of Josiah, Divine Favor

Key Verses

2 Chronicles 35:1, 2 Chronicles 35:18, 2 Chronicles 35:7, 2 Chronicles 35:16, 2 Chronicles 35:20

Historical Context

This chapter is set during the reign of King Josiah, who is noted for his reforms and commitment to the worship of Yahweh. The historical context is crucial, as it follows the discovery of the Book of the Law during temple repairs, which led to national repentance and a return to covenant faithfulness. The celebration of Passover here serves as a culmination of Josiah's religious reforms, highlighting the importance of collective worship among the people of Judah and Israel, as well as their unity in honoring God. This chapter is situated within a larger narrative that emphasizes the themes of restoration, obedience, and divine faithfulness, which are central to the Chronicler's theological message.