What is the meaning of 2 Chronicles 35:2? He appointed Josiah, the reforming king (see 2 Chronicles 34:33), took personal initiative: he did not wait for revival to emerge on its own; he actively put God’s order in place. • 2 Kings 23:21-23 records the same resolve during the Passover. • Like Moses who “laid his hands on him and commissioned him” (Numbers 27:23), Josiah models godly leadership that recognizes positions are God-given, not self-assumed. the priests The focus narrows to the sons of Aaron, already consecrated but needing direction. • Exodus 28:1 shows God’s original choice of Aaron and his sons. • 1 Chronicles 24:1-19 lists their courses, reminding us that divine calling and practical organization go together. Josiah honors both. to their duties He places each priest in the exact task prescribed by the Law—sacrifices, incense, safeguarding holy things. • 1 Chronicles 23:28-32 outlines these very responsibilities. • 2 Chronicles 8:14 proves earlier kings arranged similar duty rosters. Obedience means doing God’s work God’s way, not merely having good intentions. and encouraged them Appointment alone is not enough; hearts must be stirred. Josiah strengthens their hands: • “Be strong and courageous” (Deuteronomy 31:6) echoes through his charge. • Hezekiah had used the same word of exhortation (2 Chronicles 29:5-11), showing that spiritual service flourishes under godly encouragement. True leadership motivates by the Word and by example, never by coercion. in the service of the house of the LORD All this organization and encouragement aims at one target—faithful worship in God’s chosen place. • Psalm 84:10 rejoices, “Better is one day in Your courts than a thousand elsewhere”. • 1 Chronicles 28:20 ties strength and courage directly to temple service. • Haggai 2:4 later repeats the call when the second temple needed workers. Service in God’s house is a privilege, not a burden. summary 2 Chronicles 35:2 shows Josiah coordinating, directing, and inspiring the priests so temple worship would honor God exactly as Scripture commands. Proper leaders appoint, servants accept their appointed roles, everyone is encouraged, and the result is wholehearted service in the Lord’s house. |
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