In the third month they began building up the heaps, and they finished in the seventh month. In the third monthThe third month in the Hebrew calendar is Sivan, which corresponds to late May and early June. This period is significant as it follows the Feast of Weeks (Shavuot), a time of harvest and thanksgiving. The timing indicates that the people were bringing in the firstfruits of their harvest, a practice commanded in the Law of Moses (Exodus 23:16, Leviticus 23:15-21). This act of obedience reflects a renewed commitment to the covenant and the Law under King Hezekiah's reforms. they began building up the heaps and they finished in the seventh month Persons / Places / Events 1. HezekiahThe king of Judah who initiated religious reforms, including the restoration of temple worship and the reinstitution of tithes and offerings. 2. Judah The southern kingdom of Israel, where Hezekiah reigned and implemented his reforms. 3. The Third Month Corresponds to the month of Sivan in the Hebrew calendar, a time of harvest and the Feast of Weeks (Pentecost). 4. The Seventh Month Corresponds to the month of Tishri, which includes significant Jewish festivals such as the Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, and Feast of Tabernacles. 5. Heaps Refers to the piles of offerings and tithes brought by the people in response to Hezekiah's reforms, symbolizing abundance and obedience to God's commands. Teaching Points Obedience to God's CommandsHezekiah's reforms and the people's response demonstrate the importance of aligning our lives with God's instructions. Obedience leads to blessings and spiritual renewal. Generosity and Provision The heaps of offerings signify the people's generosity and God's provision. When we give faithfully, God provides abundantly for our needs. The Importance of Timing in God's Plan The specific months mentioned highlight the significance of God's timing. Recognizing and aligning with God's calendar can lead to spiritual growth and blessing. Community and Collective Worship The collective action of the people in bringing their tithes and offerings underscores the power of community in worship and obedience to God. Faithfulness in Leadership Hezekiah's leadership was pivotal in guiding the people back to God. Faithful leadership can inspire and direct others towards righteousness. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Hezekiah's leadership in 2 Chronicles 31:7 inspire us to lead others in spiritual matters today?2. In what ways can we practice generosity in our own lives, and how does this reflect the actions of the people in Hezekiah's time? 3. How can understanding the timing of God's feasts and events enhance our spiritual walk and obedience? 4. What are some practical ways we can encourage community worship and collective obedience in our church or small group? 5. How does the concept of "heaps" of offerings challenge our current perspective on giving and God's provision? Connections to Other Scriptures Malachi 3:10This verse speaks about bringing the whole tithe into the storehouse and God's promise to pour out blessings. It connects to the obedience and faithfulness of the people in Hezekiah's time. Leviticus 23 Details the feasts of the Lord, including those in the third and seventh months, providing context for the timing of the events in 2 Chronicles 31:7. 2 Chronicles 29-30 These chapters describe Hezekiah's reforms and the restoration of temple worship, setting the stage for the events in chapter 31.
People Aaron, Amariah, Asahel, Azariah, Azaziah, Benaiah, Benjamin, Conaniah, Cononiah, Eliel, Hezekiah, Imnah, Ismachiah, Israelites, Jehiel, Jerimoth, Jeshua, Jimnah, Jozabad, Kore, Levites, Mahath, Manasseh, Miniamin, Nahath, Shecaniah, Shechaniah, Shemaiah, Shimei, ZadokPlaces JerusalemTopics Begun, Complete, Finished, Foundation, Heaps, Lay, Masses, Month, Pile, Seventh, Store, ThirdDictionary of Bible Themes 2 Chronicles 31:1-198252 faithfulness, relationships Library ReformNow there are three effects which ought always to follow our solemn assembly upon the Lord's day, especially when we gather in such a number as the present, with shouts of joy and thanksgiving. We should go home and first break our false gods; next, cut down the very groves in which we have been wont to delight, and after that break the altars which though dedicated to the God of Israel, are not according to Scripture, and therefore ought to be broken down, albeit, they be even dedicated to the true … Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 5: 1859 Last Journey and Death, 1858 --Concluding Remarks. Tithing The Whole Heart Chronicles Links 2 Chronicles 31:7 NIV2 Chronicles 31:7 NLT 2 Chronicles 31:7 ESV 2 Chronicles 31:7 NASB 2 Chronicles 31:7 KJV 2 Chronicles 31:7 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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