2 Chronicles 31:3

The king contributed from his own possessions for the regular morning and evening burnt offerings and for the burnt offerings on the Sabbaths, New Moons, and appointed feasts, as written in the Law of the LORD.

Study Bible

The king contributed from his own possessions
This phrase highlights the personal commitment and devotion of the king, likely Hezekiah, to the worship of Yahweh. In the context of ancient Israel, a king's contribution from his own resources signifies a deep personal investment in the spiritual life of the nation. This act of giving from personal wealth reflects the biblical principle of stewardship and generosity, as seen in other scriptures like 1 Chronicles 29:3, where King David also gave from his own treasures for the temple.

for the regular morning and evening burnt offerings
The regular morning and evening burnt offerings were a central part of Israelite worship, as prescribed in Exodus 29:38-42. These offerings symbolized the continual dedication of the people to God and served as a daily reminder of their covenant relationship. The king's provision for these offerings underscores the importance of maintaining regular worship practices and the role of leadership in facilitating communal worship.

and for the burnt offerings on the Sabbaths, New Moons, and appointed feasts
These offerings were part of the broader sacrificial system outlined in the Torah, specifically in Numbers 28-29. The Sabbaths, New Moons, and appointed feasts were significant times of worship and remembrance for the Israelites, marking sacred time and God's provision. The king's support for these offerings indicates a commitment to uphold the religious calendar and ensure that the nation observed these holy days, which were integral to Israel's identity and spiritual life.

as written in the Law of the LORD
This phrase emphasizes adherence to the Mosaic Law, which was the foundation of Israel's covenant relationship with God. The Law of the LORD, or Torah, provided detailed instructions for worship and offerings, as seen in Leviticus and Deuteronomy. The king's actions demonstrate a return to covenant faithfulness and a desire to align the nation's practices with divine commandments. This adherence to the Law is a recurring theme in the history of Israel, often associated with periods of reform and revival, such as those led by Hezekiah and later by Josiah.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hezekiah
The king of Judah who initiated religious reforms to restore proper worship of Yahweh, including the re-establishment of temple services and offerings.

2. Jerusalem
The central place of worship where the temple was located, and where these offerings were to be made.

3. Burnt Offerings
Sacrifices made to God, symbolizing atonement and dedication, performed daily and on special occasions as prescribed in the Law.

4. Sabbaths, New Moons, and Appointed Feasts
Specific times set by God for worship and offerings, highlighting the rhythm of worship in the life of Israel.

5. The Law of the LORD
Refers to the Torah, the first five books of the Bible, which contain the commandments and instructions for worship given to Israel.

Teaching Points

Commitment to Worship
Hezekiah's dedication to restoring proper worship highlights the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God. We should evaluate our own commitment to regular worship and devotion.

Obedience to God's Law
The king's adherence to the Law of the LORD underscores the significance of aligning our lives with God's Word. We are called to study and apply Scripture in our daily lives.

Leadership in Faith
Hezekiah's leadership in spiritual matters serves as a model for us to lead by example in our families, churches, and communities, encouraging others to follow God's ways.

Regular Spiritual Practices
The emphasis on daily and festival offerings reminds us of the need for consistent spiritual disciplines, such as prayer, Bible study, and fellowship, to maintain a vibrant faith.

Generosity in Giving
The king's provision for the offerings illustrates the principle of giving generously to support God's work. We are encouraged to contribute our resources for the advancement of God's kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hezekiah's commitment to restoring temple worship challenge your own priorities in worship and devotion?

2. In what ways can you align your life more closely with the teachings of Scripture, as Hezekiah did with the Law of the LORD?

3. How can you take a leadership role in encouraging others to pursue a deeper relationship with God?

4. What regular spiritual practices can you incorporate into your life to ensure a consistent and growing faith?

5. How can you practice generosity in your giving to support the work of God in your local church and community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 23
Details the appointed feasts and offerings, providing the background for the practices Hezekiah reinstated.

Numbers 28-29
Outlines the daily, Sabbath, and festival offerings, emphasizing the importance of regular worship and sacrifice.

1 Kings 8:62-66
Describes Solomon's dedication of the temple, paralleling Hezekiah's efforts to restore temple worship.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the concept of burnt offerings as acts of worship.