2 Chronicles 13:11

Every morning and every evening they present burnt offerings and fragrant incense to the LORD. They set out the rows of showbread on the ceremonially clean table, and every evening they light the lamps of the gold lampstand. We are carrying out the requirements of the LORD our God, while you have forsaken Him.

Study Bible

Every morning and every evening
This phrase emphasizes the regularity and consistency of worship and devotion to God. In the Hebrew context, the daily offerings were a central part of the temple rituals, signifying continual dedication and remembrance of God's presence. The Hebrew words for "morning" (בֹּקֶר, boker) and "evening" (עֶרֶב, erev) reflect the natural rhythm of life, suggesting that worship should be as regular as the rising and setting of the sun. This practice underscores the importance of maintaining a disciplined spiritual life, where God is honored at the beginning and end of each day.

they present burnt offerings and fragrant incense
Burnt offerings (עֹלָה, olah) were sacrifices completely consumed by fire, symbolizing total surrender to God. The fragrant incense (קְטֹרֶת, ketoret) represents prayers ascending to heaven, as seen in Psalm 141:2. Together, these elements highlight a holistic approach to worship, combining both sacrifice and prayer. Historically, the use of incense in worship was a common practice in ancient Near Eastern cultures, but in Israel, it was uniquely directed to Yahweh, signifying purity and devotion.

to the LORD
The use of the divine name "LORD" (יהוה, Yahweh) is significant, as it denotes the covenantal relationship between God and Israel. This personal name of God is a reminder of His eternal presence and faithfulness. In the context of 2 Chronicles, it serves as a call to fidelity and obedience to the one true God, contrasting with the idolatry that plagued the northern kingdom of Israel.

They set out the showbread on the ceremonially clean table
The showbread (לֶחֶם הַפָּנִים, lechem haPanim) was a symbol of God's provision and presence. It was placed on a table made of acacia wood overlaid with gold, signifying purity and holiness. The term "ceremonially clean" (טָהוֹר, tahor) underscores the importance of purity in worship. This practice reflects the broader biblical theme of God as the sustainer of life and the provider of all needs.

and light the lamps of the gold lampstand every evening
The gold lampstand, or menorah (מְנוֹרָה, menorah), was a vital element in the tabernacle and later the temple, symbolizing the light of God's presence and guidance. Lighting the lamps every evening ensured that the light was perpetual, representing the enduring presence of God among His people. This act of lighting the lamps is a reminder of the call to be a light to the nations, as Israel was intended to reflect God's glory to the world.

We are carrying out the requirements of the LORD our God
This statement is a declaration of faithfulness and obedience to God's commandments. The Hebrew word for "requirements" (מִשְׁמֶרֶת, mishmeret) implies a duty or charge, highlighting the responsibility of the priests and the people to uphold God's laws. It serves as a contrast to the actions of those who have turned away from God, emphasizing the blessings of obedience and the consequences of forsaking Him.

while you have forsaken Him
The word "forsaken" (עָזַב, azav) carries a strong connotation of abandonment and neglect. This phrase serves as a rebuke to those who have turned away from God, highlighting the spiritual and moral decline that results from such actions. It is a call to repentance and a reminder of the importance of remaining faithful to the covenant with God. Historically, this reflects the division between the southern kingdom of Judah, which maintained temple worship, and the northern kingdom of Israel, which fell into idolatry.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abijah
The king of Judah who is speaking in this passage, addressing the people of Israel and contrasting their practices with those of Judah.

2. Jeroboam
The king of Israel at the time, who led the northern tribes away from the worship of the LORD.

3. Temple in Jerusalem
The central place of worship for Judah, where the prescribed rituals and sacrifices were maintained.

4. Priests and Levites
The religious leaders responsible for maintaining the temple services and rituals as commanded by God.

5. Burnt Offerings and Incense
Daily rituals performed in the temple as acts of worship and obedience to God.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Worship
Abijah emphasizes the importance of maintaining the prescribed worship practices. This teaches us the value of faithfulness in our spiritual disciplines.

Contrast of Obedience and Apostasy
The passage contrasts Judah's obedience with Israel's apostasy, reminding us of the consequences of forsaking God's commands.

Symbolism of Rituals
The daily offerings and incense symbolize continual devotion and prayer, encouraging us to maintain a consistent spiritual life.

Role of Leadership in Worship
The priests and Levites' roles highlight the importance of godly leadership in guiding worship and maintaining faithfulness to God's commands.

God's Presence and Provision
The showbread and lampstand symbolize God's provision and presence, reminding us to rely on Him daily.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the daily practice of burning incense and offering sacrifices relate to our daily spiritual disciplines today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship remains faithful to God's commands, as opposed to following cultural or personal preferences?

3. How does the role of the priests and Levites in maintaining temple worship inform our understanding of spiritual leadership in the church today?

4. What are some modern-day "lampstands" or "showbread" that symbolize God's presence and provision in our lives?

5. How can we apply the lessons of obedience and faithfulness from this passage to our personal and communal worship practices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:7-8
This passage describes the command to burn incense every morning and evening, connecting to the practices mentioned in 2 Chronicles 13:11.

Leviticus 24:5-9
Details the preparation and setting of the showbread, which is part of the temple service.

1 Kings 12:25-33
Describes Jeroboam's establishment of alternative worship centers, leading Israel away from the temple practices in Jerusalem.

Psalm 141:2
Compares prayer to incense, highlighting the spiritual significance of these rituals.