2 Chronicles 13:11

KJV

And they burn unto the LORD every morning and every evening burnt sacrifices and sweet incense: the shewbread also [set they in order] upon the pure table; and the candlestick of gold with the lamps thereof, to burn every evening: for we keep the charge of the LORD our God; but ye have forsaken him.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they burn {H6999} unto the LORD {H3068} every morning {H1242} and every evening {H6153} burnt sacrifices {H5930} and sweet {H5561} incense {H7004}: the shewbread {H3899}{H4635} also set they in order upon the pure {H2889} table {H7979}; and the candlestick {H4501} of gold {H2091} with the lamps {H5216} thereof, to burn {H1197} every evening {H6153}: for we keep {H8104} the charge {H4931} of the LORD {H3068} our God {H430}; but ye have forsaken {H5800} him.

Complete Jewish Bible

they burn to ADONAI every morning and evening burnt offerings and sweet incense; they arrange the showbread on the pure table, and they prepare the gold menorah with its lamps to burn every evening. For we observe the order of ADONAI our God. But you have abandoned him.

Berean Standard Bible

Every morning and every evening they present burnt offerings and fragrant incense to the LORD. They set out the rows of showbread on the ceremonially clean table, and every evening they light the lamps of the gold lampstand. We are carrying out the requirements of the LORD our God, while you have forsaken Him.

American Standard Version

and they burn unto Jehovah every morning and every evening burnt-offerings and sweet incense: the showbread also set they in order upon the pure table; and the candlestick of gold with the lamps thereof, to burn every evening: for we keep the charge of Jehovah our God; but ye have forsaken him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Chronicles 13:11, King Abijah of Judah delivers a powerful declaration, meticulously outlining Judah's unwavering commitment to the divinely ordained worship practices within the Jerusalem Temple. He details the consistent daily burnt sacrifices, the sweet incense, the orderly arrangement of the shewbread upon the pure table, and the perpetually burning lamps of the golden candlestick. This detailed affirmation of fidelity stands in stark contrast to the Northern Kingdom of Israel under Jeroboam, whom Abijah pointedly accuses of having forsaken the LORD, thereby asserting Judah's spiritual legitimacy and divine favor on the eve of a crucial battle.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is central to King Abijah's impassioned and strategically crafted speech to Jeroboam and the Israelite forces, delivered just before a momentous battle (2 Chronicles 13:4-12). Abijah's address serves as a profound theological and historical justification for Judah's claim to divine favor and legitimate rule, while simultaneously condemning Israel's apostasy. By meticulously describing the legitimate worship practices in Jerusalem, the Chronicler, through Abijah's voice, underscores Judah's adherence to the Mosaic covenant and the Davidic covenant, positioning them as the true inheritors of God's promises. The detailed enumeration of temple rituals in this verse is not merely descriptive; it functions as irrefutable evidence of Judah's perceived faithfulness, thereby setting the theological stage for the dramatic military victory that follows, which is explicitly attributed to divine intervention on behalf of Judah's obedience and proper worship.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The narrative is set during the early period of the divided monarchy, approximately 930 BCE. After the death of King Solomon, the unified kingdom fractured into the Southern Kingdom of Judah, which remained loyal to the Davidic dynasty and centered its worship in Jerusalem, and the Northern Kingdom of Israel, led by Jeroboam. Jeroboam, driven by political expediency and a fear that continued pilgrimage to Jerusalem would undermine his authority, established rival worship centers at Dan and Bethel. There, he erected golden calves and appointed a non-Levitical priesthood, fundamentally altering the divinely prescribed worship (as documented in [1 Kings 12:28-33](/1_kings/12-28-33 "1 Kings 12:28-33 - Jeroboam's Religious Innovations")). Abijah's speech directly challenges this schism, asserting that only Judah maintains the authentic worship of Yahweh according to the Mosaic Law and the Davidic covenant. The precise detailing of the temple rites in 2 Chronicles 13:11 serves to highlight Judah's strict adherence to these ancient, divinely commanded practices, thereby drawing a sharp and damning contrast with Israel's innovative and idolatrous religious system.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of 2 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it champions the theme of **Legitimate Worship**, emphasizing that true devotion to God must strictly adhere to His revealed will and prescribed ordinances, particularly concerning the central sanctuary in Jerusalem. This stands in direct opposition to the false worship initiated by Jeroboam, highlighting the critical importance of worshipping God on His terms, rather than through human invention or convenience. Secondly, the passage underscores **Covenant Faithfulness**, as Abijah argues that Judah's diligent observance of the temple rituals demonstrates their commitment to the "covenant of salt"—a perpetual and unbreakable covenant that God made with David and his descendants ([2 Chronicles 13:5](/2_chronicles/13-5 "2 Chronicles 13:5 - The Covenant of Salt")). This faithfulness is presented as the foundational basis for divine blessing, protection, and national stability. Finally, the verse clearly articulates the theme of **Apostasy and its Consequences**, with Abijah's pointed accusation, "but ye have forsaken him," serving as a stark warning to Israel. This highlights the severe spiritual and practical dangers inherent in turning away from God's commands, implying that Israel's rebellion would inevitably lead to divine judgment, a consistent theological motif throughout the Deuteronomistic history (e.g., [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses and Covenant Obedience")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Charge (Hebrew, _mishmereth'_):** The word "charge" (מִשְׁמֶרֶת, _mishmereth_) denotes a duty, a trust, or a sacred obligation that is to be carefully guarded, kept, or maintained with diligence. It implies a profound responsibility to observe and uphold specific ordinances or commands, often related to priestly or temple service. In this context, Judah's claim to "keep the charge of the LORD our God" signifies their diligent and faithful observance of the divine mandates concerning worship and covenant responsibilities, particularly the intricate rituals of the Jerusalem Temple. This term conveys a deep sense of careful stewardship and unwavering adherence to God's revealed will.
* **Forsaken (Hebrew, _`azav'_):** The verb "forsaken" (עָזַב, _`azav'_) is a potent term meaning to abandon, leave, or desert. It signifies a deliberate act of turning away from a relationship or obligation, often implying a breach of loyalty or trust. When applied to God, as in "ye have forsaken him," it conveys a profound spiritual breach—a conscious rejection of God's authority, covenant, and commands. This is not merely a lapse but an active and wilful abandonment, implying a severe act of rebellion and disloyalty that carries significant theological and consequential weight, particularly in the context of a covenant relationship.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they burn unto the LORD every morning and every evening burnt sacrifices and sweet incense:"** This clause emphasizes the consistent and divinely prescribed daily rituals of the Jerusalem Temple. The "burnt sacrifices" (עֹלָה, _`olah'_) were daily offerings entirely consumed by fire on the altar, symbolizing complete dedication, propitiation, and atonement, as commanded in [Exodus 29:38-42](/exodus/29-38-42 "Exodus 29:38-42 - The Daily Burnt Offering"). The "sweet incense" refers to the fragrant incense burned on the golden altar of incense, signifying prayers and devotion ascending to God, a perpetual duty detailed in [Exodus 30:7-8](/exodus/30-7-8 "Exodus 30:7-8 - The Altar of Incense"). The phrase "every morning and every evening" underscores the unwavering regularity and faithfulness of Judah's worship, adhering strictly to divine instruction.
* **"the shewbread also [set they in order] upon the pure table;"** The "shewbread" (לֶחֶם פָּנִים, _lechem panim_, "bread of presence") consisted of twelve loaves, representing the twelve tribes of Israel, which were perpetually displayed on the pure gold table in the Holy Place of the tabernacle/temple. These loaves were replaced weekly, a perpetual ordinance signifying God's constant provision and abiding presence among His people, as outlined in [Leviticus 24:5-9](/leviticus/24-5-9 "Leviticus 24:5-9 - The Ordinance of the Shewbread"). The parenthetical "[set they in order]" highlights the meticulous care and adherence to the precise divine instructions for this sacred ritual, emphasizing proper form and reverence.
* **"and the candlestick of gold with the lamps thereof, to burn every evening:"** This refers to the golden menorah (candlestick) in the Holy Place, whose lamps were to be kept burning continually, especially from evening until morning. This perpetual light symbolized God's constant presence, guidance, and illumination for His people, as commanded in [Exodus 25:31-40](/exodus/25-31-40 "Exodus 25:31-40 - Design of the Menorah") and [Exodus 27:20-21](/exodus/27-20-21 "Exodus 27:20-21 - Keeping the Lamps Burning"). The mention of its diligent maintenance underscores Judah's commitment to preserving every detail of God's prescribed worship, symbolizing their dedication to walking in His light.
* **"for we keep the charge of the LORD our God;"** This is Abijah's central assertion and the theological justification for Judah's distinct position. It is a declarative statement of their obedience and fidelity to God's covenant. By "keeping the charge," Judah claims to be upholding the sacred trust and divine mandates given by God, distinguishing themselves as the true inheritors and practitioners of Yahweh's legitimate worship. This phrase encapsulates their self-perception as diligent guardians of true religion.
* **"but ye have forsaken him."** This final, accusatory clause serves as a powerful and direct condemnation of Jeroboam and the Northern Kingdom. It sharply contrasts Judah's faithfulness with Israel's profound spiritual rebellion. The act of "forsaking" God implies a deliberate and comprehensive abandonment of His covenant, His laws, and His legitimate worship, which, in the Deuteronomistic theology of Chronicles, inevitably leads to divine judgment, defeat, and spiritual ruin.

#### Literary Devices
2 Chronicles 13:11 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound theological message. The most prominent is **Contrast**, as Abijah meticulously details Judah's faithful adherence to the legitimate temple worship, setting it in stark opposition to Israel's apostasy. This creates a clear dichotomy between obedience and rebellion, true worship and false worship, emphasizing the moral and spiritual chasm between the two kingdoms. The speech itself is a powerful example of **Rhetoric**, designed not only to persuade the Israelite army and the Chronicler's immediate audience of Judah's divine right but also to instruct future generations on the consequences of faithfulness versus apostasy. The enumeration of specific temple rituals (burnt sacrifices, incense, shewbread, candlestick) serves as **Symbolism**, where each item represents a facet of God's presence, provision, and the people's devotion, reinforcing the sanctity and divine origin of Judah's practices and their connection to God's covenant. Furthermore, the verse utilizes **Parallelism** in its concluding clauses ("for we keep the charge of the LORD our God; but ye have forsaken him"), creating a sharp, memorable antithesis that underscores the core theological argument of Abijah's speech and highlights the profound difference in their relationship with God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Chronicles 13:11 profoundly connects to the broader biblical theology of worship, covenant, and divine sovereignty. It emphasizes that true worship is not merely an emotional experience or a human invention but a disciplined adherence to God's revealed commands, reflecting His holiness, order, and desire for communion. The meticulous description of the temple rituals underscores the Old Covenant's emphasis on atonement, God's presence, and perpetual communion, serving as a constant reminder of Israel's dependence on Yahweh and His gracious provision. Abijah's speech highlights the theological conviction that faithfulness to God's ordinances is intrinsically linked to divine favor and protection, while deviation leads to judgment. This perspective is foundational to the Chronicler's theology, which consistently links national prosperity, security, and success to the people's obedience and proper worship of God, and conversely, links disaster to their apostasy.

* [Exodus 29:38-42](/exodus/29-38-42 "Exodus 29:38-42 - The Daily Burnt Offering")
* [Leviticus 24:5-9](/leviticus/24-5-9 "Leviticus 24:5-9 - Regulations for the Shewbread")
* [Numbers 18:5](/numbers/18-5 "Numbers 18:5 - Keeping the Charge of the Sanctuary")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Chronicles 13:11, though rooted in the Old Covenant's sacrificial system and the specific context of a divided kingdom, offers enduring principles for contemporary believers. It challenges us to examine the sincerity, consistency, and intentionality of our own worship and obedience. While the specific rituals of the temple have been fulfilled in Christ, the underlying principles of diligent obedience, heartfelt devotion, and adherence to God's revealed will remain paramount for all who claim to follow Him. Are we, as individuals and as the corporate body of Christ, truly "keeping the charge of the LORD our God" in our lives? This involves not only our corporate worship gatherings but also our daily spiritual disciplines—prayer, diligent Bible study, fellowship with other believers, and selfless service. It compels us to consider whether our lives reflect a genuine, active commitment to God's commands or if, like ancient Israel, we have subtly or overtly "forsaken Him" by neglecting spiritual responsibilities, compromising our faith, or prioritizing worldly concerns over divine ones. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that true worship is a holistic lifestyle of obedience and devotion, not merely an outward ritual or a casual acknowledgment.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific, tangible ways do I demonstrate that I am "keeping the charge of the LORD our God" in my daily life?**
* **Are there areas of my life or spiritual practices where I might be inadvertently "forsaking" God by neglecting His commands or spiritual disciplines?**
* **How does my personal and corporate worship reflect a genuine understanding of God's holiness, His desire for ordered devotion, and His redemptive work in Christ?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to cultivate greater consistency, sincerity, and depth in my spiritual practices and obedience to God's Word?**

### FAQ

**Why was Judah's worship considered legitimate, and Israel's not?**

Answer: Judah's worship was considered legitimate because it strictly adhered to the divinely established protocols for worship given by God through Moses and later organized by King David and King Solomon. This included the exclusive use of the Temple in Jerusalem as the sole authorized place of sacrifice, the performance of sacrifices and rituals precisely as prescribed in the Torah, and the service of the Levitical priesthood, which was genealogically ordained by God. In stark contrast, Jeroboam, the first king of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, established alternative worship centers at Dan and Bethel, created golden calves for worship, and appointed non-Levitical priests (as described in [1 Kings 12:28-33](/1_kings/12-28-33 "1 Kings 12:28-33 - Jeroboam's Religious Innovations")). These actions were a direct violation of God's commands for centralized worship and a proper priesthood, thus rendering Israel's worship illegitimate, idolatrous, and rebellious in the eyes of the Chronicler and the Southern Kingdom.

**What does "keeping the charge of the LORD" mean for believers today?**

Answer: For believers today, "keeping the charge of the LORD" means diligently and faithfully obeying God's revealed will as found in His Word, the Bible. While the Old Testament sacrificial system and temple rituals have been fulfilled in Christ, the underlying principle of obedience, reverence, and wholehearted devotion remains central. It involves actively participating in the life of the church, engaging in personal spiritual disciplines like prayer and Bible study, living according to the moral and ethical commands of Scripture, and serving God and others with a heart of gratitude and love. It signifies a committed stewardship of the spiritual responsibilities entrusted to us as followers of Christ, acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking to honor Him in all aspects of life, reflecting the Great Commission to make disciples ([Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")) and the call to obey out of love ([John 14:15](/john/14-15 "John 14:15 - If you love me, keep my commandments")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous temple rituals described in 2 Chronicles 13:11, while representing the shadows of Old Covenant practices, find their ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "burnt sacrifices" that were offered daily, symbolizing atonement and complete dedication, pointed forward to the once-for-all, perfect sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, who, as the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), made any further animal sacrifices obsolete and unnecessary (as articulated in [Hebrews 10:10-14](/hebrews/10-10-14 "Hebrews 10:10-14 - Christ's Once-for-All Sacrifice")). The "sweet incense" ascending to the LORD, symbolizing the prayers of the saints, is now a reality made possible through Christ, our great [High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest"), who perpetually intercedes for us before the Father ([Romans 8:34](/romans/8-34 "Romans 8:34 - Christ's Intercession")). The "shewbread" on the pure table, signifying God's constant presence and provision for His people, foreshadowed Jesus as the [Bread of Life](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life"), who spiritually nourishes and sustains His people. Finally, the "candlestick of gold with the lamps thereof, to burn every evening," symbolizing God's perpetual light, guidance, and illuminating presence, is perfectly embodied in Jesus, who declared, "[I am the light of the world](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World")" and whose followers are called to reflect His light in a dark world ([Matthew 5:14](/matthew/5-14 "Matthew 5:14 - You are the Light of the World")). Thus, Judah's faithful "keeping the charge of the LORD" in the Old Covenant was a type and shadow pointing to the substance found in Christ, who fully embodies and perfectly fulfills all the requirements and promises of God's covenant, establishing a new and better covenant through His blood ([Hebrews 8:6-13](/hebrews/8-6-13 "Hebrews 8:6-13 - The New Covenant")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Chronicles 2:4

Behold, I build an house to the name of the LORD my God, to dedicate [it] to him, [and] to burn before him sweet incense, and for the continual shewbread, and for the burnt offerings morning and evening, on the sabbaths, and on the new moons, and on the solemn feasts of the LORD our God. This [is an ordinance] for ever to Israel.

Leviticus 24:2

Command the children of Israel, that they bring unto thee pure oil olive beaten for the light, to cause the lamps to burn continually.

Leviticus 24:9

And it shall be Aaron's and his sons'; and they shall eat it in the holy place: for it [is] most holy unto him of the offerings of the LORD made by fire by a perpetual statute.

Exodus 27:20

¶ And thou shalt command the children of Israel, that they bring thee pure oil olive beaten for the light, to cause the lamp to burn always.

Exodus 27:21

In the tabernacle of the congregation without the vail, which [is] before the testimony, Aaron and his sons shall order it from evening to morning before the LORD: [it shall be] a statute for ever unto their generations on the behalf of the children of Israel.

Exodus 25:30

And thou shalt set upon the table shewbread before me alway.

Exodus 25:39

[Of] a talent of pure gold shall he make it, with all these vessels.