2 Kings

Second Kings continues the narrative of Israel and Judah’s monarchy, beginning with the dramatic ascension of Elijah into heaven and the passing of his prophetic mantle to Elisha. Elisha’s ministry testifies to God’s unwavering power and mercy, as he performs miracles that preserve lives and call errant leaders to repentance. Meanwhile, the kingdoms of Israel and Judah experience repeated turbulence, as most of their kings forsake the Lord and embrace idolatry. This prolonged disobedience ultimately leads to the downfall of the northern kingdom—Israel—into the hands of Assyria.

The latter portion of 2 Kings focuses on the fate of Judah. Although there are a few righteous kings, like Hezekiah and Josiah, who seek to restore true worship, their reforms cannot fully reverse the deep-seated rebellion in the nation’s heart. Eventually, Judah falls to the Babylonians, and Jerusalem—along with the Temple—is tragically destroyed. Yet even amid national calamity, God’s covenant promises remain. The closing note of the book highlights a glimmer of hope for the exiled Davidic line, pointing ahead to the ultimate King—Jesus Christ—through whom God’s plan of redemption will unfold.