2 Chronicles 13:10

But as for us, the LORD is our God. We have not forsaken Him; the priests who minister to the LORD are sons of Aaron, and the Levites attend to their duties.

Study Bible

But as for us
This phrase sets a clear distinction between the people of Judah and the northern kingdom of Israel. In the Hebrew text, the word "us" (אֲנַ֣חְנוּ, 'anachnu) emphasizes a collective identity rooted in faithfulness to God. Historically, this reflects the division of the united monarchy after Solomon's reign, where Judah remained more aligned with the Davidic covenant. This phrase calls believers to consider their own identity in Christ, distinct from the world.

the LORD is our God
The name "LORD" (יהוה, YHWH) is the sacred tetragrammaton, representing the covenantal name of God. This declaration is a reaffirmation of the exclusive worship of Yahweh, contrasting with the idolatry prevalent in the northern kingdom. It echoes the Shema from Deuteronomy 6:4, a central tenet of Jewish faith, and calls Christians to acknowledge the sovereignty and exclusivity of God in their lives.

and we have not forsaken Him
The Hebrew root for "forsaken" (עָזַב, 'azab) implies abandonment or neglect. Historically, this statement underscores Judah's commitment to the covenant, unlike Israel, which had turned to idol worship under Jeroboam. For believers, it serves as a reminder to remain steadfast in faith, avoiding the spiritual neglect that leads to apostasy.

The priests who minister to the LORD
The role of priests (כֹּהֲנִים, kohanim) is central to the worship and sacrificial system established in the Mosaic Law. The phrase highlights the legitimate priesthood of Aaron's descendants, contrasting with the illegitimate priests appointed by Jeroboam. This emphasizes the importance of adhering to God's ordained structures and leadership within the church.

are sons of Aaron
Aaronic lineage was crucial for the legitimacy of the priesthood. This phrase underscores the continuity of God's covenantal promises through the Levitical priesthood. It serves as a reminder of the importance of spiritual heritage and the faithfulness of God to His promises, encouraging believers to value their spiritual lineage in Christ.

and the Levites attend to their duties
The Levites (לְוִיִּם, Levi'im) were set apart for service in the temple, assisting the priests. Their duties were divinely appointed, emphasizing order and obedience in worship. This phrase calls Christians to recognize their own roles within the body of Christ, serving faithfully in the capacities God has assigned to them, and maintaining the order and purity of worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abijah
The king of Judah who is speaking in this verse. He is addressing the people of Israel, contrasting Judah's faithfulness to God with Israel's idolatry.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom, which Abijah rules. It is portrayed as remaining faithful to the worship of the LORD.

3. Israel
The northern kingdom, which has turned away from the LORD under the leadership of Jeroboam.

4. Priests and Levites
The religious leaders who are serving in the temple, maintaining the worship practices as prescribed by the Law of Moses.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, whom Judah continues to worship according to the established priestly order.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness to God
Abijah's declaration highlights the importance of remaining faithful to God, even when others around us turn away. This calls us to examine our own faithfulness in worship and obedience.

Role of Spiritual Leaders
The mention of priests and Levites underscores the importance of spiritual leadership in guiding worship and maintaining doctrinal purity. We should support and pray for our spiritual leaders today.

Contrast with Idolatry
The verse contrasts Judah's faithfulness with Israel's idolatry, reminding us of the dangers of turning to false gods or modern-day idols. We must guard our hearts against anything that takes precedence over God.

Covenant Relationship
The emphasis on "the LORD is our God" reflects the covenant relationship between God and His people. We are called to live in a way that honors this relationship, trusting in His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Abijah's declaration in 2 Chronicles 13:10 challenge us to evaluate our own faithfulness to God in today's world?

2. In what ways can we support and uphold the roles of spiritual leaders in our communities, similar to the priests and Levites in Judah?

3. What are some modern-day idols that might tempt us to forsake our commitment to God, and how can we guard against them?

4. How does understanding the covenant relationship between God and His people in the Old Testament enhance our appreciation of our relationship with God through Christ?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to stand firm in your faith despite opposition. How does Abijah's example encourage you in similar situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 12-13
Provides background on the division of the kingdom and Jeroboam's establishment of idolatrous worship in Israel.

Exodus 28-29
Details the ordination of Aaron and his sons as priests, establishing the priestly lineage mentioned in this verse.

Deuteronomy 10:8
Describes the role of the Levites, connecting to their duties as mentioned in 2 Chronicles 13:10.

Psalm 115:9-11
Encourages trust in the LORD, similar to Judah's reliance on God in this passage.