NIV Commentary 1 & 2 Kings

NIV Commentary Series, 1 & 2 Kings

1 & 2 Kings tell of David's death, the golden age of Solomon's reign, how the nation divided into two kingdoms, and their eventual captivity by heathen powers. Solomon, David's son, began his rule with great wealth, glory, and power, but it ended in disgrace.

Is Kings, therefore, a history without hope?

The spiritual condition of Israel was of paramount importance to the writer amidst political changes. The author of Kings holds up the history of Israel and Judah before the captives to teach them that the only way to freedom is to repent of idolatry, return to God, keep the covenant, and trust in the divine promises. He seeks to awaken in them a conviction of the truth of this teaching and to strengthen them in this conviction.

The will and purpose of God will indeed prevail. He still spoke through his prophets even when some did not want to listen. In these books, kings are pronounced good or bad as they adhered to or departed from the covenant. God showed his power through the forces of nature, and he incited foreign hostile armies to accomplish his purpose. God is always in control, and Christians know that, in due time, grace comes in David's greatest son, Jesus!

1 & 2 Kings has 544 pages.