1 & 2 Kings

BY She Reads Truth

This Is the Old Testament is part of a twelve-week thematic overview of the entire Bible. Each day we’ll read a thematic selection from a different book or two of the Bible, along with supplemental passages that show how the theme of that day’s main reading is found throughout Scripture. We’ll also read a brief summary of each book and a reflection on how the book fits into the larger story of Scripture. This week, we’ll finish the Historical Books and move into the genre of Wisdom Literature.

What Is 1 Kings? The book of 1 Kings recounts the final days of King David’s rule, King Solomon’s prosperous and relatively peaceful reign, and a civil war that divided the nation into two separate kingdoms, both ruled by kings mostly failed to follow God. 

What Is 2 Kings? The book of 2 Kings continues where 1 Kings ends, with more stories of the kings in the divided kingdom of Israel and Judah who ignored God and the prophets until both kingdoms fell to other nations. It also chronicles the prophetic ministries of Elijah and Elisha. 

How 1 & 2 Kings Fit Into the Story: The Jewish exiles in Babylon longed for an explanation for what they saw as the failure of the religious system in Israel that led to their captivity. The books of 1 & 2 Kings were written during this period. These two books interpret Hebrew history in light of Old Testament covenant theology, finding the failure was due not to God but to God’s people, who did not uphold their part of the covenant. But God’s gracious and merciful character is displayed throughout Israel’s unfaithful history, emphasizing that He is faithful to His covenant with us, even when we are not. 

Reflection Questions: 
1. How does a faithful recognition of God’s kingship change your view of authority here on earth?
2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption?

Take time to reflect on your responses and share what you are learning with others in the community in the comments.

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