Readers of 1 and 2 Kings commonly
approach these books as a
straightforward chronology of post-
Davidic Israel: the inauguration of
Solomon’s reign, the division of the
kingdom following his death, and
Israel’s and Judah’s ensuing kings,
conflicts, captivities, and
overarching spiritual decline.
In reality, however, the books of the
Kings fall into the collection known
as the Former Prophets, and their true
story and underlying theme center on
such striking personalities as Nathan,
Elijah, Elisha, and other divinely
appointed spokesmen. It is God’s
interaction with his people by way of
his prophets and their kings—his
pleadings, his warnings, and the
fulfillment of his words—that comes
across again and again with
forcefulness and clarity. God speaks;
now will his people hear, believe, and
respond?
The question is as relevant for us
today as it was for the ancient
Israelites. Bridging the centuries,
August Konkel connects past context to
contemporary circumstances, helping us
grasp the meaning and signifance of 1
and 2 Kings and take to heart their
message for us today.