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Most of this material is original to Chronicles. Hezekiah, portrayed like David, does not have a faithless period. He begins his rule by caring for his religious responsibilities. He repairs the temple in his first month and gathers Levites to renew service to the Lord. Hezekiah recognizes their forebears' apostasy and subsequent punishment. To emphasize the seriousness of rebuilding, he speaks in terms of defeat and exile (vv.8-11). The people need restoration after Ahaz’s wickedness. The Lord’s temple must be the center of renewal. Hezekiah intends to return the nation to a covenantal relationship with God. The chronicler’s audience would see the parallel to their situation and, he hoped, respond in faith to the Lord.
The Levites finish the temple purification after the beginning of Passover. The next morning the king and the city officials present offerings for the nation’s sins. Hezekiah instructs those dedicating themselves to the Lord to bring additional sacrifices and thank offerings. The people rejoice that God made a quick refurbishing possible. The kingdom enjoys a radical break with Ahaz’s apostasy.