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 King Hezekiah. The Hebrew root for "contributed" is "נָתַן" (natan), meaning to give or bestow. This act of giving from his own possessions signifies a heartfelt dedication to God, setting an example for the people of Judah. Historically, this reflects a period of religious reform and revival under Hezekiah's reign, emphasizing the importance of personal sacrifice in worship.

for the morning and evening burnt offerings
The "morning and evening burnt offerings" were a central part of daily worship in the temple, as prescribed in the Mosaic Law (Exodus 29:38-42). The Hebrew word for "burnt offering" is "עֹלָה" (olah), which means "that which goes up" or "ascent," symbolizing the offering's ascent to God. This practice underscores the continual need for atonement and dedication to God, reminding believers of the importance of regular, disciplined worship.

and for the burnt offerings on the Sabbaths, New Moons, and appointed feasts
These offerings were integral to the Jewish liturgical calendar, marking special times of worship and remembrance. The "Sabbaths" were weekly holy days, the "New Moons" marked the beginning of each month, and the "appointed feasts" included significant festivals like Passover and the Feast of Tabernacles. Each occasion provided an opportunity for communal worship and reflection on God's covenant faithfulness. The regularity and variety of these offerings highlight the rhythm of worship in the life of Israel, encouraging believers to integrate worship into the fabric of their lives.

as written in the Law of the LORD
This phrase emphasizes adherence to divine instruction as found in the Torah, the first five books of the Bible. The Hebrew term for "Law" is "תּוֹרָה" (Torah), meaning instruction or teaching. By following the Law of the LORD, Hezekiah demonstrates a commitment to God's revealed will, serving as a model of obedience and reverence. This adherence to the Law underscores the importance of Scripture as the foundation for faith and practice, encouraging believers to seek guidance and direction from God's Word.

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.