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?
In 1&2 Kings August Konkel shows us that these questions and issues remain pertinent for us today. Bridging the centuries Konkel connects past context to contemporary circumstances, helping us grasp the meaning and significance of 1 and 2 Kings and understand how its myriad lessons and circumstances can inform our knowledge of God and decisions to act in today's world.