1st and 2nd Kings
Apr 7, 2009 Print This Post
Today, I’m going to continue my series going through the books of the Old Testament by hitting two: 1st and 2nd Kings. Again, this makes sense because they were originally one book.
1st Kings
Author
We can’t know for certain, though much Jewish tradition attributes it to Jeremiah.
Date
Around 550 BC
Theme
This book picks up the historical account of Israel after the death of David. His son Solomon (author of 3 books of the Bible we’ll hit later) became king. The years under Solomon’s leadership were the high point for Israel. Things were going awesome, because Solomon was a super wise and powerful leader. Unfortunately, as often happens with such leaders, his heart drifted from God. His big sin was the ladies. He had 700 wives and 300 concubines, in direct violation of God’s command to him not to do so. After his reign, the kingdom split apart and started it’s decline. This whole situation is a clear picture of the consequences of disobedience.
What this book teaches me about Jesus
Solomon foreshadows Jesus by portraying Jesus’ future reign when he establishes his kingdom on Earth and through his great wisdom.
Random Thoughts
Solomon, just like David, shows how God uses imperfect people for his glory and to foreshadow his ultimate work.
2nd Kings
Author
We can’t know for certain, though much Jewish tradition attributes it to Jeremiah.
Date
Around 550 BC
Theme
Now that the kingdom of Israel has been divided, this book shows the history of each of them. It also details the history of the prophets Elijah and Elisha. It ultimately carries the same theme as 1st Kings: a clear picture of the consequences of disobedience. God’s patience wears thin and he punishes his people.
What this book teaches me about Jesus
Elijah foreshadows John the Baptist as the forerunner of Jesus. Elisha foreshadows Jesus in the miracles he performs and his acts of kindness.
Random Thoughts
1st Kings starts with the picture of blessing that comes with obedience. 2nd Kings ends with the picture of the consequences of disobedience.
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