A Moment With Pastor Fred

Last fall and winter we studied 1 Kings. In the Jewish Bible 1 and 2 Kings are one book. So, it is logical to pick up where we left off last March with a series in 2 Kings. Our new series begins September 13. The narrative of the monarchies of Israel (northern kingdom) and Judah (southern kingdom) continue. After the death of Solomon, the nation split apart. Israel and Judah’s fate is tied to the kings, and particularly whether or not they will treasure God’s covenant. Unfortunately, the answer will be a no for Israel – some good kings however did adhere to the covenant in the south. In all the sadness and stupidity that sin brings to this book, we as believers can benefit greatly today. A faithful king cultivates a faithful people, but when kings stray – God sends the prophets to call them and the nation back to repentance. This is where there’s hope.

The ESV Study Bible provides the themes we will discover in the months ahead: The Lord is the only true God; he controls history; he also demands exclusive worship. We will also see the consequences of false worship along with the promise God made to David – a dynasty of kings would follow him. Of course, the OT isn’t just about morals – it all points to Christ. These kings, as inadequate as they were paved the road to the ultimate King who will rule on  David’s throne forever. He has already ushered in a new covenant superior to the old. Tucked in history we’ll read  of glimpses of his new kingdom to come.

2 Kings isn’t one of those books most of us are that familiar with. Maybe take the next few weeks reading a chapter a day to reacquaint you with what’s ahead. And pray for Pastor Anthony and I as we begin our study.