2 Chronicles 35:1

Then Josiah celebrated the Passover to the LORD in Jerusalem, and the Passover lamb was slaughtered on the fourteenth day of the first month.

Study Bible

Then Josiah
The name "Josiah" means "Yahweh supports" or "Yahweh heals." Josiah was one of the most righteous kings of Judah, ascending to the throne at a young age and leading a significant religious reform. His reign is marked by a return to the worship of Yahweh and the eradication of idolatry. Historically, Josiah's reforms were pivotal in the spiritual revival of Judah, emphasizing the importance of godly leadership.

celebrated the Passover
The Passover is a foundational event in Jewish history, commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from Egyptian bondage. The Hebrew word for Passover, "Pesach," signifies "to pass over" or "to spare," reflecting God's mercy during the final plague in Egypt. Josiah's celebration of the Passover indicates a return to covenant faithfulness and a desire to align the nation with God's commands as outlined in the Torah.

to the LORD
The use of "LORD" in all capitals signifies the covenant name of God, Yahweh. This highlights the personal and covenantal relationship between God and His people. Josiah's actions were directed towards Yahweh, underscoring his commitment to honoring God according to the divine statutes.

in Jerusalem
Jerusalem, the city of David, holds immense historical and spiritual significance as the center of Jewish worship and the location of the Temple. By celebrating the Passover in Jerusalem, Josiah reaffirms the city's role as the spiritual heart of the nation and the proper place for worship according to the Law of Moses.

and the Passover lamb was slaughtered
The slaughtering of the Passover lamb is a direct reference to the instructions given in Exodus 12. The lamb symbolizes innocence and sacrifice, pointing forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. This act of slaughtering is a vivid reminder of the cost of redemption and the seriousness of sin.

on the fourteenth day of the first month
This timing is significant as it aligns with the instructions given in Exodus 12:6. The first month, Nisan, marks the beginning of the Jewish religious calendar, symbolizing new beginnings and deliverance. The precise observance of this date by Josiah reflects his dedication to following God's commands meticulously, setting an example of obedience and reverence for God's appointed times.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Josiah
The King of Judah who reigned from approximately 640 to 609 BC. Known for his religious reforms and dedication to restoring the worship of Yahweh.

2. Passover
A significant Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt. It involves the sacrifice of a lamb and is celebrated on the 14th day of the first month (Nisan).

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah and the spiritual center for the Jewish people, where the temple was located and where the Passover was celebrated.

4. The Passover Lamb
The sacrificial animal that symbolizes the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt. It is a type of Christ, the Lamb of God, in Christian theology.

5. The Fourteenth Day of the First Month
This date is significant as it aligns with the instructions given in Exodus for the celebration of Passover, emphasizing obedience to God's commands.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
Josiah's celebration of the Passover as prescribed in the Law demonstrates the importance of adhering to God's instructions. Believers today are called to live in obedience to God's Word.

Spiritual Renewal and Reform
Josiah's actions were part of a broader reform to restore true worship. Christians are encouraged to seek personal and communal renewal, aligning their lives with biblical principles.

The Significance of Remembrance
The Passover serves as a reminder of God's deliverance. Similarly, Christians are called to remember Christ's sacrifice through practices like Communion.

Leadership in Worship
Josiah's leadership in reinstating the Passover highlights the role of leaders in guiding others in worship and spiritual practices.

Typology of Christ
The Passover lamb is a foreshadowing of Christ's sacrifice. Understanding this typology enriches the Christian appreciation of the Old Testament.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Josiah's celebration of the Passover reflect his commitment to God's Word, and what can we learn from his example about the importance of obedience?

2. In what ways does the Passover serve as a reminder of God's deliverance, and how can Christians today incorporate similar practices of remembrance in their spiritual lives?

3. How does the account of Josiah's reforms challenge us to seek spiritual renewal in our own lives and communities?

4. What role does leadership play in guiding others toward true worship, and how can we apply this in our church or community settings?

5. How does understanding the typology of the Passover lamb enhance our appreciation of Christ's sacrifice, and how can this understanding impact our faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
Provides the original instructions for the Passover, highlighting its significance as a perpetual ordinance for the Israelites.

2 Kings 23
Offers a parallel account of Josiah's reforms and the celebration of the Passover, emphasizing his commitment to the covenant.

1 Corinthians 5:7
Paul refers to Christ as our Passover lamb, drawing a direct connection between the Old Testament Passover and the sacrifice of Jesus.

Hebrews 11:28
Mentions the faith of Moses in keeping the Passover, illustrating the importance of faith in God's deliverance.