2 Chronicles 35:19 – “This Passover was celebrated in the eighteenth year of Josiah’s reign.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

This verse provides a simple but significant time marker for the grand Passover celebration under King Josiah’s leadership. It informs us that this particular Passover occurred during the eighteenth year of Josiah’s reign, when he was still relatively young. The timing is important because it shows the deep reforms Josiah made early in his rule. The verse highlights how this celebration was a culmination of Josiah’s dedication to restoring true worship in Judah after years of spiritual neglect and idolatry. By the eighteenth year of his reign, Josiah had initiated temple repairs, rediscovered the Book of the Law, and reestablished the correct practices for worship.

Historical Context

Josiah became king of Judah at the young age of eight, and by the time he was in his twenties, he was already leading a major revival. He had inherited a kingdom that had been corrupted by idolatry and pagan practices under previous kings. During the repairs of the temple, Josiah’s officials found the Book of the Law, which had been forgotten and neglected for many years. Upon hearing the words of the Law, Josiah was deeply convicted and immediately began a campaign to bring Judah back to the proper worship of God.

The celebration of the Passover in Josiah’s eighteenth year was significant because it symbolized the nation’s return to God after years of wandering. The Passover was one of the most important festivals in Israel’s history, commemorating their deliverance from Egypt and God’s covenant with them. Josiah’s reform not only restored the Passover but also renewed the nation’s relationship with God, reminding them of their identity as His people.

Theological Implications

Theologically, this verse highlights the importance of repentance and renewal. Josiah’s reforms were not just political or cultural changes; they were deeply spiritual. The restoration of the Passover was a public declaration that the nation was turning away from its sins and returning to God. It teaches us that true revival begins with a return to God’s Word and a commitment to obedience.

This verse also speaks to the importance of leadership in spiritual renewal. Josiah’s dedication to the restoration of true worship played a pivotal role in leading the people back to God. It shows that godly leadership can have a profound impact on the spiritual health of a community or nation. When leaders take the initiative to follow God’s Word, it can inspire others to do the same.

Literary Analysis

This verse serves as a concluding note to the description of the Passover celebration, marking its historical timing. The reference to Josiah’s eighteenth year reinforces the sense of urgency and commitment he had in implementing reforms. The verse is brief, but it carries significant weight in the broader narrative of Josiah’s reign. By emphasizing the timing, it invites the reader to reflect on the rapid spiritual turnaround that occurred under Josiah’s leadership.

The inclusion of the year also provides a clear historical marker, grounding the narrative in a specific moment in time. It shows that this was not just an isolated event but part of a broader movement of reform and renewal that had lasting consequences for the nation of Judah.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• 2 Kings 22:3-20: Describes the rediscovery of the Book of the Law during Josiah’s reign, which set the stage for the religious reforms and the celebration of the Passover.
• 2 Chronicles 34:8-33: Provides more detail on Josiah’s reforms, including his removal of idols and restoration of proper worship practices.
• Exodus 12:1-20: The original institution of the Passover, which Josiah was reviving and restoring to its rightful place in the life of Judah.
• Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” This verse emphasizes the importance of God’s Word in guiding individuals and nations, much like it guided Josiah’s reforms.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of spiritual renewal and the role of God’s Word in that renewal. Just as Josiah led his people back to God by rediscovering the Law and reinstating the Passover, we are called to continually return to the Scriptures and allow God’s Word to guide our lives.

It also challenges us to consider the importance of timely action. Josiah did not wait to implement reforms—he acted decisively as soon as he became aware of the nation’s spiritual condition. This calls us to examine our own lives and communities and ask whether there are areas where we need to take swift action in returning to God and His ways.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in His willingness to restore and forgive His people when they turn back to Him. Despite the long period of neglect and idolatry that had plagued Judah, God responded to Josiah’s reforms with mercy and allowed the people to experience a renewed relationship with Him. The Passover celebration in Josiah’s eighteenth year was a sign of God’s grace and His desire to be in covenant relationship with His people.

This verse also shows God’s love through the power of His Word. The rediscovery of the Law reminded the people of God’s promises, His faithfulness, and His desire for them to live according to His will. It was through the Word that the people were brought back to God, demonstrating that His love is always available through His revealed truth.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse connects to Jesus Christ through the theme of restoration and renewal. Just as Josiah’s reforms led the people back to God, Jesus came to bring ultimate spiritual renewal. He is the fulfillment of the Passover, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). Josiah’s Passover pointed forward to the greater deliverance that Jesus would bring through His death and resurrection.

In Luke 22:19-20, Jesus established the Lord’s Supper during the celebration of Passover, pointing to His role as the perfect sacrifice for sin. Through His blood, He brought a new covenant that fulfills the old, just as Josiah’s reforms pointed back to the covenant between God and Israel. Jesus is the ultimate expression of God’s love and faithfulness, offering us eternal deliverance through His sacrifice.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What can we learn from Josiah’s leadership and the urgency with which he implemented spiritual reforms? Are there areas in our lives where we need to take decisive action in returning to God?
2. How does the celebration of the Passover under Josiah remind us of the importance of remembering God’s acts of deliverance? How can we celebrate and remember God’s work in our own lives?
3. What role does God’s Word play in leading us to repentance and spiritual renewal, both personally and as a community?
4. How does Josiah’s Passover point us to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ? How can we live in response to the salvation He offers?
5. How does this passage remind us of God’s love and faithfulness, even after a long period of spiritual neglect? How can we respond to His grace with renewed commitment?

This verse from 2 Chronicles 35:19 reminds us of the importance of timely spiritual renewal and the power of God’s Word in leading us back to Him. It challenges us to take action in restoring true worship in our lives and points us to Jesus Christ, the ultimate fulfillment of the Passover, whose sacrifice brings us into a new covenant with God. Through Christ, we are invited to experience lasting spiritual renewal and live in the light of God’s grace and faithfulness.