2 Chronicles 35:11

And they slaughtered the Passover lambs, while the priests sprinkled the blood handed to them and the Levites skinned the animals.

Study Bible

And they slaughtered the Passover lambs
This phrase marks the commencement of the Passover sacrifice, a pivotal event in Jewish tradition. The Hebrew word for "slaughtered" is "שָׁחַט" (shachat), which implies a ritualistic and reverent act, not merely a physical one. The Passover lambs symbolize deliverance and redemption, harking back to the Exodus when the Israelites were freed from Egyptian bondage. This act of slaughtering is a profound reminder of the sacrificial system that pointed forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).

and the priests sprinkled the blood handed to them
The sprinkling of blood is a significant ritual act, rooted in the Hebrew word "זָרַק" (zarak), meaning to scatter or sprinkle. This act was essential for atonement, as blood represents life (Leviticus 17:11). The priests, descendants of Aaron, were the only ones authorized to perform this sacred duty, emphasizing the holiness and order of God's instructions. The blood, symbolizing purification and consecration, foreshadows the New Covenant in Christ's blood, which cleanses believers from sin (Hebrews 9:22).

while the Levites skinned the animals
The Levites, from the tribe of Levi, were set apart for service in the temple. The Hebrew word for "skinned" is "הִפְשִׁיט" (hifshit), indicating the careful preparation of the sacrifice. This task underscores the division of labor and the cooperative effort required in worship, reflecting the body of Christ, where each member has a unique role (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). The Levites' work ensured that the offerings were prepared according to God's specifications, highlighting the importance of obedience and reverence in worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Passover Lambs
Central to the Passover celebration, these lambs were sacrificed as a remembrance of God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt.

2. Priests
Descendants of Aaron, responsible for performing the sacrificial rituals and maintaining the sanctity of the temple.

3. Levites
Members of the tribe of Levi, tasked with assisting the priests and performing various duties in the temple.

4. Sprinkling of Blood
A ritual act symbolizing atonement and purification, essential in the sacrificial system.

5. Skinning of Animals
Part of the preparation process for the sacrifices, carried out by the Levites.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
The meticulous observance of the Passover rituals underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands. As believers, we are called to follow God's instructions with diligence and reverence.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The Passover lamb is a foreshadowing of Christ's sacrifice. Understanding this connection deepens our appreciation for the atonement and redemption offered through Jesus.

Role of Community in Worship
The collaboration between priests and Levites highlights the communal aspect of worship. In the church today, each member has a role to play in the body of Christ, contributing to the collective worship and service.

Purity and Atonement
The sprinkling of blood signifies purification and atonement. This reminds us of the necessity of being cleansed from sin, which is fulfilled through Christ's blood.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the Passover lamb in 2 Chronicles 35:11 point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship and service to God are conducted with the same diligence and reverence as the priests and Levites?

3. How does the concept of community in worship, as seen in the collaboration between priests and Levites, apply to the modern church?

4. What does the sprinkling of blood teach us about the necessity of atonement and purification in our spiritual lives?

5. How can we draw parallels between the obedience required in the Passover rituals and our daily walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
The original institution of the Passover, where God commands the Israelites to sacrifice a lamb and apply its blood to their doorposts.

Leviticus 1
Details the procedures for burnt offerings, including the role of priests and Levites in handling sacrifices.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the significance of blood in the context of the new covenant, drawing parallels to the sacrificial system.

John 1:29
John the Baptist refers to Jesus as the "Lamb of God," connecting the Passover lamb to Christ's ultimate sacrifice.