2 Chronicles 35:6
So kill the Passeouer, and sanctifie your selues, and prepare your brethren, that they may doe according to the word of the Lord, by the hand of Moses. 2 Chronicles 35:6 (KJV)
Historical Context: 2 Chronicles 35:6 takes us back to the reign of King Josiah, who was one of the righteous kings of Judah. During his reign he implemented religious reforms and restored the worship of Yahweh, the God of Israel. This verse specifically refers to the celebration of the Passover, a significant event in Jewish history commemorating the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt.
Observations: The command to “kill the passover” recalls the festival in which a lamb without blemish was sacrificed and its blood applied to the doorposts to protect the people, as recorded in Exodus 12. Josiah’s instruction to “sanctify yourselves” calls the participants to consecrate themselves spiritually before the observance, echoing the purification rituals required in the Exodus narrative. The phrase “prepare your brethren” (or “bring out the priests, the Levites, and the people”) emphasizes gathering the community—including the priestly and Levitical officials—so that the Passover could be kept correctly according to the law given through Moses.
Interpretation: Josiah’s emphasis on doing “according to the word of the LORD by the hand of Moses” underscores the importance of obeying God’s instructions exactly as they were given, rather than adapting the observance to personal preference or cultural trends. The call to sanctify oneself points to the need for personal reflection, repentance, and dedication to God before approaching sacred rites. By directing the people to gather together, Josiah highlights the communal nature of worship and the responsibility of leaders to guide and support the nation in observing God’s commands.
Application: Believers today are called to commit to God’s Word, studying Scripture diligently and aligning their actions with His will. Prior to worship or significant spiritual events, we should examine our hearts, confess sin, seek forgiveness, and consecrate ourselves, thereby preparing for a deeper encounter with God. Moreover, we share a responsibility to assist and encourage fellow believers, helping them understand and apply God’s commands, walking alongside them in faith. Continual study of the Bible, consultation of reliable commentaries, and engagement in fellowship all contribute to a comprehensive and faithful understanding of Scripture.
