2 Chronicles 35

CHAPTER 35

Josiah Celebrates the Passover (35:1–19)

1–19 In this chapter the writer describes in detail Josiah’s celebration of the Passover and Feast of Unleavened Bread (see Exodus 12:1–30; Leviticus 23:4–8 and comments). It is very similar to the Passover celebration of Hezekiah, which is described in 2 Chronicles Chapter 30. However, in planning his celebration, Josiah was able to more closely adhere to Moses’ instructions for the Passover feast. In addition, because Josiah had more time to make preparations, the number of animals sacrificed was double the number sacrificed in Hezekiah’s time. For these reasons, the writer comments concerning Josiah’s celebration that the Passover had not been observed like this in Israel since the days of the prophet Samuel (verse 18).

Many of the details described in this chapter may not be relevant to the modern reader.²⁵ However, in carrying out the Passover celebration in the exact manner prescribed by Moses, Josiah was showing great respect for the Lord and was setting an example of obedience for all his people to follow. Josiah also demonstrated his generosity by providing thousands of his own animals for the lay people to sacrifice (verse 7). Josiah, like Hezekiah before him, was one of Judah’s greatest and most godly kings(see 2 Kings 23:24–25 and comment).

Sadly, however, the reforms of Josiah did not last beyond his death (see 2 Kings 23:26–27 and comment); most of Judah’s people had not truly repented of their sinfulness. Following Josiah’s reign, Judah went rapidly downhill. As always, the people’s major sin was to turn from the Lord and worship false gods.

We may see little connection between the last days of Judah and the state of the church in our day. But we too must be on guard against the same spiritual decay that affected Judah. Are we truly seeking the Lord with all our heart and soul, or are we worshiping false gods—money, success, power? Are we developing and nurturing our faith, or are we just coasting along, dependent on the spiritual leaders God has given us? Is our success in ministry coming from the Lord, or is it coming because we are cooperating and compromising with the world? Do our hearts break with repentance for our sins, or have we become lukewarm and complacent like the Laodiceans? (Revelation 3:14–22). We need to answer these questions, lest the fate of Judah overtake us. For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God (1 Peter 4:17).

The Death of Josiah (35:20–27)

(2 Kings 23:28–30)

20–27 See 2 Kings 23:28–30 and comment.