2 Chronicles 35:18 – “The Passover had not been observed like this in Israel since the days of the prophet Samuel; and none of the kings of Israel had ever celebrated such a Passover as did Josiah, with the priests, the Levites, and all Judah and Israel who were there with the people of Jerusalem.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse highlights the extraordinary nature of the Passover celebration that took place under King Josiah’s reign. The writer emphasizes that this Passover was unique and unlike any other since the days of Samuel, the last of Israel’s judges and a prophet. Even the kings who had reigned over Israel before Josiah had not celebrated the Passover with the same level of devotion and participation from the priests, Levites, and people of Judah and Israel.
The verse speaks to the thoroughness and dedication with which Josiah and his leaders observed this important festival. Josiah’s reforms brought the people back to true worship after years of neglect, idolatry, and disobedience to God’s commands. The Passover celebration under Josiah was a high point in the nation’s spiritual life, reflecting a return to their covenant relationship with God.
Historical Context
King Josiah’s reign took place during a period of spiritual decline in Judah. The people had fallen into idol worship, and the temple itself had been neglected. When Josiah became king, he discovered the Book of the Law during temple renovations, and it led him to initiate major religious reforms. Josiah removed the idols from the land, restored the proper worship of God, and called the people back to obedience.
The Passover, which commemorated Israel’s deliverance from slavery in Egypt, had not been properly celebrated for many years. Under Josiah’s leadership, the people came together to observe the Passover in a way that had not been done since the days of the prophet Samuel, a time when Israel was still united under God’s rule before the monarchy was fully established. Josiah’s Passover was a sign of national repentance and renewal, as the people recommitted themselves to following God’s law.
Theological Implications
This verse illustrates the power of spiritual leadership and reform. Josiah’s commitment to leading the people back to God had a profound effect on the nation, resulting in a celebration that honored God in a way that had not been seen for generations. It shows that true revival and worship begin with a return to God’s Word and a willingness to obey His commands.
The verse also emphasizes the importance of remembering and celebrating God’s acts of deliverance. The Passover was not just a ritual but a reminder of God’s saving power. By observing the Passover, the people were renewing their covenant relationship with God and acknowledging His faithfulness. Theological renewal in a nation or community often starts with a return to God’s historical acts of salvation and a renewed commitment to live according to His Word.
Literary Analysis
From a literary perspective, this verse uses strong comparative language to highlight the significance of the event. The phrase “not been observed like this” and the comparison to the days of Samuel emphasize that this was not a typical celebration. The use of “none of the kings” reinforces the exceptional nature of this Passover under Josiah’s leadership.
The mention of key groups—the priests, the Levites, and all Judah and Israel—underscores the communal and unified nature of this celebration. It wasn’t just a personal act of worship; the entire nation was involved, representing a collective return to God.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- 1 Samuel 7:3-6: This passage describes Samuel’s leadership in calling the people of Israel to repentance and renewal, which parallels Josiah’s reforms and the celebration of the Passover.
- 2 Kings 23:21-23: A parallel account of Josiah’s Passover, emphasizing the importance of the event and the role it played in restoring the people to proper worship.
- Exodus 12:24-27: Describes the original Passover, reminding the people to celebrate God’s deliverance from Egypt. Josiah’s Passover was a return to this original purpose of the celebration.
- 2 Chronicles 30:1-5: Describes an earlier attempt by Hezekiah to celebrate the Passover in a similar spirit of revival, showing the ongoing importance of this festival in Israel’s history.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse reminds us of the importance of remembering and honoring God’s past works in our lives. Just as the Israelites celebrated the Passover to remember God’s deliverance from Egypt, we are called to remember and reflect on the ways God has saved and delivered us, especially through Jesus Christ’s sacrifice.
It also speaks to the importance of spiritual leadership. Josiah’s reforms and his dedication to restoring true worship brought about a national revival. This shows the power of faithful leadership in bringing people back to God. It challenges us to pray for and support godly leadership in our churches and communities, and to take responsibility for our own role in leading others to worship God faithfully.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is reflected in this verse through His patience and faithfulness. Even though the people of Judah had turned away from Him for many years, God was still ready to receive them when they returned to Him in obedience. The celebration of the Passover under Josiah was a powerful reminder of God’s willingness to forgive and restore His people when they turned back to Him.
God’s love is also seen in the way He gives His people opportunities to remember and celebrate His acts of deliverance. The Passover was a reminder of God’s saving power and His covenant relationship with Israel. By bringing the people back to the celebration of the Passover, God was inviting them to remember His love and faithfulness throughout their history.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ through the theme of the Passover. In the New Testament, Jesus is described as the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world (John 1:29). Just as the Passover in Josiah’s time was a reminder of God’s deliverance from Egypt, Jesus’ sacrifice is the ultimate act of deliverance for all who believe in Him. His death and resurrection fulfill the meaning of the Passover, offering us eternal salvation and freedom from sin.
In 1 Corinthians 5:7, Paul makes the connection clear: “For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.” Just as the people of Judah celebrated the Passover in remembrance of God’s deliverance, Christians celebrate the Lord’s Supper in remembrance of Jesus’ sacrifice, which brings us into a new covenant with God.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Josiah’s leadership in restoring the Passover challenge us to think about the importance of spiritual renewal in our own lives and communities?
- What can we learn from the Israelites’ faithful celebration of the Passover under Josiah’s leadership? How can we apply that faithfulness to our own worship of God?
- How does the Passover in this verse point us to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ? How should this affect the way we think about salvation and grace?
- In what ways can we, like Josiah and the people of Judah, make an effort to return to God’s Word and renew our commitment to following Him?
- How does this verse remind us of God’s love and faithfulness, even when we have strayed from Him?
This verse from 2 Chronicles 35:18 reminds us of the importance of remembering God’s acts of deliverance and honoring Him through faithful worship. It calls us to renew our commitment to God’s Word and to celebrate His faithfulness in our lives. Ultimately, it points us to Jesus Christ, the true Passover Lamb, whose sacrifice has brought us salvation and freedom. Through Christ, we are invited to live in a restored relationship with God, celebrating His grace and love in our lives.