Hezekiah’s Revival: Restoring Temple Worship and Tithing in Ancient Judah

Executive Summary ✨

2 Chronicles 31 details King Hezekiah’s sweeping reforms in Judah, focusing on the re-establishment of proper Temple service and the provision for the priests and Levites. This chapter highlights Hezekiah’s commitment to restoring the Mosaic Law and purging idolatry from the land, ensuring that the Temple in Jerusalem once again became the center of worship. The people responded enthusiastically, offering their tithes and firstfruits abundantly. The chapter underscores the spiritual and material blessings that result from obedience to God’s commands and the importance of maintaining the sanctity of worship. Hezekiah’s example challenges us to examine our own devotion and contribution to the life of the Church, prompting a reflection on how we can best support its ministry.

King Hezekiah, a righteous ruler, understood that true prosperity and spiritual well-being flowed from a right relationship with God. **Hezekiah’s revival** wasn’t just a superficial cleanse; it was a deep-rooted transformation that touched every aspect of Israelite life. This chapter, 2 Chronicles 31, showcases the practical steps he took to ensure the Temple operated according to God’s will and the needs of the clergy were met, demonstrating the vital link between spiritual devotion and material support.

Commentary Sections

2 Chronicles 31:1 – Idolatry Destroyed 🔨

“Now when all this was finished, all Israel that were present went out to the cities of Judah, and brake the images in pieces, and cut down the groves, and threw down the high places and the altars out of all Judah and Benjamin, in Ephraim also and Manasseh, until they had utterly destroyed them all. Then all the children of Israel returned every man to his possession.” (KJV)

“So when all this was finished, all Israel who were present went out to the cities of Judah and broke the sacred pillars in pieces, cut down the wooden images, and tore down the high places and the altars—from all Judah, Benjamin, Ephraim, and Manasseh—until they had completely destroyed them all. Then all the children of Israel returned to their own cities, every man to his possession.” (NKJV)

Hezekiah’s reforms began with the systematic destruction of idolatrous objects and places. This wasn’t limited to Judah but extended to the territories of Ephraim and Manasseh, demonstrating the pervasive influence of idolatry and the thoroughness of Hezekiah’s commitment. The destruction of “high places” (bamot in Hebrew, בָּמוֹת) is particularly significant, as these were often pagan shrines located on elevated ground, symbolizing humanity’s attempt to reach God on their own terms, rather than through divinely ordained means.

St. Athanasius emphasizes in Contra Gentes (Κατὰ Ἐθνῶν, Against the Heathen) the futility of idolatry: “Οὐ γὰρ ἄξιον τὰ ἄψυχα προσκυνεῖν, ἀλλὰ τὸν ζῶντα Θεὸν” (“It is not fitting to worship lifeless things, but the living God”). This resonates with the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on *icons* as windows to the divine, not idols to be worshipped.

Spiritual Application: We must examine our own lives for “idols”—anything that takes precedence over God. This might be material possessions, career aspirations, or even relationships. We are called to demolish these idols and return to God with undivided hearts. Consider using a website builder to establish a digital presence for a ministry focused on idol removal, creating a safe and supportive community for those seeking to break free from worldly attachments.

2 Chronicles 31:2 – Organizing the Priests and Levites 🕊️

“And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the Levites after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and Levites for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the camps of the LORD.” (KJV)

“And Hezekiah appointed the divisions of the priests and the Levites according to their divisions, each man according to his service, both the priests and Levites for burnt offerings and peace offerings, to minister, to give thanks, and to praise at the gates of the camp of the Lord.” (NKJV)

Hezekiah reorganized the Temple service according to the divisions established by King David (1 Chronicles 23-26). This included assigning specific duties to the priests and Levites for burnt offerings, peace offerings, ministry, thanksgiving, and praise. The phrase “gates of the camps of the LORD” refers to the entrances of the Temple precincts, where these acts of worship took place.

St. Cyril of Alexandria, in his commentary on the Psalms (Εἰς τοὺς Ψαλμούς), highlights the importance of order and structure in worship: “Ἡ γὰρ εὐταξία ἐν τῇ λατρείᾳ, δόξα Θεοῦ ἐστιν” (“For order in worship is the glory of God”). This echoes the Coptic Orthodox tradition of meticulous liturgical practices and structured hymnology.

Spiritual Application: God is a God of order (1 Corinthians 14:33, 40). We should strive to organize our spiritual lives, establishing routines of prayer, Scripture reading, and service. Just as Hezekiah restored order to the Temple, we can restore order to our spiritual disciplines, seeking to serve God with diligence and dedication.

2 Chronicles 31:3-10 – Provision for the Priests and Levites 💰

“He appointed also the king’s portion of his substance for the burnt offerings, to wit, for the morning and evening burnt offerings, and the burnt offerings for the sabbaths, and for the new moons, and for the set feasts, as it is written in the law of the LORD. Moreover he commanded the people that dwelt in Jerusalem to give the portion of the priests and the Levites, that they might be encouraged in the law of the LORD. And as soon as the commandment came abroad, the children of Israel brought in abundance the firstfruits of corn, wine, and oil, and honey, and of all the increase of the field; and the tithe of all things brought they in abundantly. And concerning the children of Israel and Judah, that dwelt in the cities of Judah, they also brought in the tithe of oxen and sheep, and the tithe of holy things which were consecrated unto the LORD their God, and laid them by heaps. In the third month they began to lay the foundation of the heaps, and finished them in the seventh month. And when Hezekiah and the princes came and saw the heaps, they blessed the LORD, and his people Israel. Then Hezekiah questioned the priests and the Levites concerning the heaps. And Azariah the chief priest of the house of Zadok answered him, and said, Since the people began to bring the offerings into the house of the LORD, we have had enough to eat, and have left plenty: for the LORD hath blessed his people; and that which is left is this great store.” (KJV)

“He also appointed a portion of his possessions for burnt offerings—for the morning and evening burnt offerings, the burnt offerings for the Sabbaths and the New Moons, and for the set feasts, as it is written in the Law of the Lord. Moreover he commanded the people who dwelt in Jerusalem to give support to the priests and the Levites, that they might devote themselves to the Law of the Lord. As soon as the commandment was circulated, the children of Israel brought in abundance the firstfruits of grain and wine, oil and honey, and all the produce of the field; and they brought in abundantly the tithe of everything. And concerning the children of Israel and Judah who dwelt in the cities of Judah, they brought in the tithe of oxen and sheep; also the tithe of holy things which were consecrated to the Lord their God they laid in heaps. In the third month they began laying them in heaps, and they finished in the seventh month. And when Hezekiah and the leaders came and saw the heaps, they blessed the Lord and His people Israel. Then Hezekiah questioned the priests and the Levites concerning the heaps. And Azariah the chief priest, from the house of Zadok, answered him and said, “Since the people began to bring the offerings into the house of the Lord, we have had enough to eat and have plenty left over, for the Lord has blessed His people; and what is left is this great abundance.”” (NKJV)

This section emphasizes the importance of providing for the material needs of those dedicated to Temple service. Hezekiah, as king, contributed from his own resources and commanded the people to tithe generously. The people’s response was overwhelming, resulting in abundant offerings. This abundance was seen as a direct blessing from God.

The concept of tithing and firstfruits is deeply rooted in Old Testament law (Leviticus 27:30-33, Deuteronomy 14:22-29) and is alluded to in the New Testament (Matthew 23:23, Hebrews 7:5). In Coptic Orthodox tradition, giving to the Church is viewed as an act of worship and a way of expressing gratitude to God for His blessings. Giving is not about fulfilling an obligation but about participating in the divine economy of grace. It’s related to the concept of stewardship. We are stewards of everything God has given us.

Spiritual Application: We are called to support the ministry of the Church through our financial giving. This isn’t just about providing for the clergy but also about investing in the work of the Gospel. Generosity is a spiritual discipline that reflects our trust in God’s provision. The overflow experienced by the priests and Levites reminds us that God blesses those who honor Him with their substance. In addition to financial giving, we can also donate our time and talent. For example, if we are good writers, we can offer to create content for a church’s website or newsletter. This is an example of using our gifts to serve God.

2 Chronicles 31:11-19 – Appointing Storekeepers and Distributors 📦

“Then Hezekiah commanded to prepare chambers in the house of the LORD; and they prepared them, And brought in the offerings and the tithes and the dedicated things faithfully: over which Cononiah the Levite was ruler, and Shimei his brother was the next. And next to Cononiah were Shemaiah the son of Jeiel, and Azariah the son of Johanan, and Eliel the son of Elioenai, and Jahath the son of Jeshohaiah, and Tobijah the son of Hasiah, and Jeiel the son of Jeconiah. And Core the son of Imnah the Levite, the keeper of the east gate, was over the freewill offerings of God, to distribute the oblations of the LORD, and the most holy things. And next him were Eden, and Miniamin, and Jeshua, and Shemaiah, Amariah, and Shecaniah, in the cities of the priests, in their set office, to distribute among their brethren by courses, as well to the great as to the small: Beside their genealogy of males, from three years old and upward, even unto every one that entereth into the house of the LORD, his daily portion for their service in their offices according to their divisions; Both to the genealogy of the priests by the house of their fathers, and the Levites from twenty years old and upward, in their offices according to their divisions; And to all that were reckoned by genealogy among the little ones, their wives, and their sons, and their daughters, through all the congregation: for in their set office they sanctified themselves in holiness: Also of the sons of Aaron the priests, which were in the fields of the suburbs of their cities, the Levites, in their set office, had the oversight to distribute portions to all the males among the priests, and to all that were reckoned by genealogy among the Levites.” (KJV)

“Then Hezekiah commanded them to prepare rooms in the house of the Lord; and they prepared them. And they faithfully brought in the offerings, the tithes, and the dedicated things; Cononiah the Levite had charge over them, and Shimei his brother was the next. Jehiel, Azaziah, Nahath, Asahel, Jerimoth, Jozabad, Eliel, Ismachiah, Mahath, and Benaiah were overseers under the hand of Cononiah and Shimei his brother, at the direction of King Hezekiah and Azariah the ruler of the house of God. Kore the son of Imnah the Levite was the keeper of the East Gate, to oversee the freewill offerings to God, and to distribute the offerings of the Lord and the most holy things. And under him were Eden, Miniamin, Jeshua, Shemaiah, Amariah, and Shecaniah, in the cities of the priests, to distribute faithfully to their brethren in divisions, as well to the great as to the small. Besides those males who were written in the genealogy, from three years old and upward, everyone who entered the house of the Lord received his daily portion for his service in their duties, according to their divisions. Also the genealogy of the priests was written according to the house of their fathers, and the Levites from twenty years old and upward were entered according to their duties and their divisions. And they wrote in the genealogy all their little ones, their wives, their sons, and their daughters, through all the congregation; for in their set office they sanctified themselves in holiness. Also for the sons of Aaron the priests who were in the fields of the common-lands of their cities, in every city there were men who were designated by name to distribute portions to all the males among the priests and to all who were listed by genealogy among the Levites.” (NKJV)

This section details the meticulous organization and administration of the offerings and tithes. Chambers were prepared in the Temple to store the contributions, and individuals were appointed to oversee the distribution of these resources to the priests, Levites, and their families. This included providing for even the youngest members of the priestly families, ensuring their well-being and enabling them to dedicate themselves to Temple service.

The emphasis on faithfulness and accountability in this passage reflects the importance of proper stewardship and transparency in the Church’s financial matters. The phrase “sanctified themselves in holiness” highlights the spiritual dimension of their service, emphasizing that even administrative tasks should be performed with reverence and dedication to God.

Spiritual Application: Good stewardship is essential for the health and effectiveness of any ministry. We are called to be responsible with the resources God has entrusted to us, ensuring that they are used for His glory and the benefit of His people. This includes not only financial resources but also our time, talents, and spiritual gifts. Just as Hezekiah ensured that the Temple resources were distributed fairly and efficiently, we should strive to manage our resources wisely, seeking to maximize our impact for the Kingdom of God.

2 Chronicles 31:20-21 – Hezekiah’s Faithfulness Rewarded 🙏

“And thus did Hezekiah throughout all Judah, and wrought that which was good and right and truth before the LORD his God. And in every work that he began in the service of the house of God, and in the law, and in the commandments, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart, and prospered.” (KJV)

“Thus Hezekiah did throughout all Judah, and he did what was good and right and true before the Lord his God. In every work that he began in the service of the house of God, in the law and in the commandment, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart. So he prospered.” (NKJV)

The chapter concludes with a summary of Hezekiah’s faithfulness and the resulting prosperity. Hezekiah’s actions were “good and right and truth” in the eyes of God. He sought God with all his heart and diligently pursued the restoration of Temple worship and obedience to the Law. As a result, he prospered.

This passage reinforces the principle that obedience to God leads to blessing (Deuteronomy 28:1-14). Hezekiah’s example serves as an encouragement to us to pursue righteousness wholeheartedly, trusting that God will honor our faithfulness. However, Coptic Orthodox theology emphasizes that prosperity is not merely material but also spiritual. True prosperity is found in a right relationship with God and in the growth of virtues such as love, humility, and compassion.

Spiritual Application: Hezekiah’s story teaches us that sincere devotion to God is always rewarded. Whether we are involved in serving the Church or working in the secular world, we should strive to do everything with all our heart, seeking to please God in all that we do. We can serve as mentors in our church communities, helping others discover and develop their spiritual gifts.

Subtopic Sections

Here are some key reflections and teachings drawn from 2 Chronicles 31:

• The Importance of Leadership: Hezekiah’s leadership was instrumental in initiating and sustaining the reforms. A righteous leader can inspire a nation to return to God.
• The Significance of Order: Restoring the Temple service and organizing the contributions required careful planning and execution. Orderliness is vital for effective ministry.
• The Blessings of Generosity: The people’s generous response to Hezekiah’s call for tithing resulted in abundance. Giving to God is an investment that yields eternal rewards.
• The Power of Obedience: Hezekiah’s obedience to God’s Law led to prosperity. Obedience is the pathway to experiencing God’s blessings.
• The Need for Holistic Transformation: The reforms touched every aspect of Israelite life, from the destruction of idols to the support of the clergy. True revival is holistic.
• Importance of supporting the church ministries: The tithe was meant for the levites to do God’s work. It shows that financial support is necessary for the church to function.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about 2 Chronicles 31:

• Q: Why was it important for Hezekiah to destroy the idols?

  A: Idolatry was a direct violation of God’s commandments and a sign of spiritual infidelity. By destroying the idols, Hezekiah was cleansing the land and restoring the people’s allegiance to God.

• Q: What is the significance of tithing?

  A: Tithing is an acknowledgment of God’s ownership of all things and a way of expressing gratitude for His blessings. It is also a means of supporting the ministry of the Church and caring for those in need.

• Q: How does Hezekiah’s example apply to us today?

  A: Hezekiah’s example challenges us to examine our own devotion to God and to identify any “idols” that may be hindering our spiritual growth. It also encourages us to support the Church through our giving and service.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 2 Chronicles 31 provides a powerful account of Hezekiah’s revival and the restoration of Temple worship in Judah. This chapter underscores the importance of obedience, generosity, and proper stewardship. Hezekiah’s unwavering commitment to God serves as an inspiration to us today, reminding us that true prosperity flows from a right relationship with God and a wholehearted dedication to His service. By seeking God with all our heart, as Hezekiah did, we too can experience His blessings and contribute to the renewal of our communities. Let us follow Hezekiah’s lead and dedicate ourselves to serving God with faithfulness and zeal, knowing that our labor is not in vain. It’s important to remember that **Hezekiah’s revival** was not a one-time event but a continuous process of seeking God in all areas of life. We must strive for the same level of commitment and dedication to our faith, always seeking to grow closer to God and to live according to His will.

Tags

Hezekiah, Revival, Temple Worship, Tithing, Obedience, Stewardship, Priests, Levites, Idolatry, Reform

Meta Description

Explore Hezekiah’s Revival in 2 Chronicles 31: A deep dive into Temple worship restoration, tithing, and lessons for modern Christians on obedience and generosity.