2 Kings

Although the Book of Kings is full of the history of Israelite Kingdom, its purpose was to analyze the Israel story from a religious perspective and search for God’s desire on the Israelites. The Book of Kings were written during the time of Israel’s captivity.  The content was based on Yahweh’s covenant with Moses on Mount Sinai (Deut. 28) to evaluate Israelites kings after the Kingdom being destroyed. The achievement of any king in Israel was based on his loyalty to God.  When a king was loyal in following God, the nation would be blessed.  However, when a king was against God, the whole nation would be judged.  The author of the Book Kings was trying to explain what happened to the Kingdom, through the perspective of God. The enemy was perceived as God’s tool in disciplining His people. From the book, God is portrayed as both gracious and righteous.  He does what He proclaimed.  He expects His people to be loyal to Him and putting Him first.  He expects His people to follow Him, instead of the idols.