2 Chronicles 31:4

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.

Moreover he commanded {H559} the people {H5971} that dwelt {H3427} in Jerusalem {H3389} to give {H5414} the portion {H4521} of the priests {H3548} and the Levites {H3881}, that they might be encouraged {H2388} in the law {H8451} of the LORD {H3068}.

He also ordered the people living in Yerushalayim to contribute the portion meant for the cohanim and L'vi'im, so that they would be submitting themselves to the Torah of ADONAI.

Moreover, he commanded the people living in Jerusalem to make a contribution for the priests and Levites so that they could devote themselves to 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 give themselves to the law of Jehovah.

Commentary

2 Chronicles 31:4 is a concise yet powerful verse that encapsulates a crucial aspect of King Hezekiah's spiritual reforms in Judah. Following a profound national Passover celebration, Hezekiah commanded the people to sustain the priests and Levites, ensuring they could fully dedicate themselves to their sacred duties and the instruction of God's law.

Context

This verse is set during the reign of King Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 29-32), a period marked by significant spiritual revival and restoration after the widespread idolatry and neglect under his father, King Ahaz. Hezekiah began his reign by cleansing and reopening the temple, reinstating proper worship, and celebrating a long-neglected Passover. The people's enthusiastic response, including spontaneous and abundant giving of tithes and offerings mentioned in the preceding verses, led to this formal command by the king. Hezekiah's action was not merely about collecting funds, but about re-establishing the divinely ordained system for supporting those who served in the temple.

Key Themes

  • Support for Ministry: The verse clearly highlights the importance of the community financially supporting those who minister in spiritual capacities. This provision allowed the priests and Levites, who had no tribal land inheritance, to devote their full time and energy to temple service and teaching.
  • Obedience to God's Law: Hezekiah's command was a restoration of the Mosaic Law, which prescribed the tithes and offerings for the sustenance of the priestly class. This act demonstrated obedience to God's established order for the functioning of His house and His people.
  • Encouragement in God's Word: The primary purpose stated is "that they might be encouraged in the law of the LORD." This support was intended to empower the priests and Levites, freeing them from secular labor so they could diligently study, teach, and live out God's commandments, fostering spiritual health across the nation.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "the portion" refers to the prescribed share or allotment, typically from tithes and offerings, that was due to the priests and Levites according to Old Testament law (e.g., Numbers 18:21). The word "encouraged" (Hebrew: αΈ₯āzaq) suggests being strengthened, enabled, or made firm. It implies that by receiving their due, the ministers would be empowered to steadfastly devote themselves to their sacred duties and the study of God's law without distraction.

Related Scriptures

  • The concept of providing for those who minister is also evident in the New Testament, as seen in 1 Corinthians 9:14, where Paul states, "Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel."
  • The emphasis on immersing oneself in "the law of the LORD" echoes the importance placed on God's word throughout Scripture, as exhorted in Joshua 1:8.

Practical Application

This verse provides timeless principles for both individuals and the church today. It underscores the biblical model of financially supporting those who are called to full-time ministry, whether pastors, missionaries, or other spiritual leaders. This support enables them to focus on prayer, studying God's Word, teaching, and pastoral care, thereby strengthening the spiritual life of the community. Our generosity, whether through tithes or offerings, contributes directly to the health and effectiveness of ministry, allowing those dedicated to God's service to be "encouraged in the law of the LORD" and faithfully carry out their God-given tasks.

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Cross-References

  • Malachi 2:7

    For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth: for he [is] the messenger of the LORD of hosts.

  • Numbers 18:8

    ΒΆ And the LORD spake unto Aaron, Behold, I also have given thee the charge of mine heave offerings of all the hallowed things of the children of Israel; unto thee have I given them by reason of the anointing, and to thy sons, by an ordinance for ever.

  • Numbers 18:21

    And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation.

  • Nehemiah 13:10

    ΒΆ And I perceived that the portions of the Levites had not been given [them]: for the Levites and the singers, that did the work, were fled every one to his field.

  • Nehemiah 13:13

    And I made treasurers over the treasuries, Shelemiah the priest, and Zadok the scribe, and of the Levites, Pedaiah: and next to them [was] Hanan the son of Zaccur, the son of Mattaniah: for they were counted faithful, and their office [was] to distribute unto their brethren.

  • Galatians 6:6

    Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.

  • 1 Corinthians 9:9

    For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen?
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