Key word: Seek (God)
This book begins with the reign of Solomon and continued to the decree of Cyrus for the rebuilding of Jerusalem (960-536 B.C). It deals exclusively with Judah, virtually ignoring Israel. It would be Solomon who would build, furnish and dedicate the temple for the Lord. The high point of 2 Chronicles is Solomon’s prayer of dedication (6:12-42), see 6:14. Israel under Solomon possesses more of the land than at any other time; they are at peace, have a booming economy, and for a time, follow God. But Solomon’s sins and compromises plant the seeds for deterioration in the future, and under his son Rehoboam the kingdom splits into two parts. From this point on, the author turns to Judah. Some of Judah’s kings were godless. Others were a mixed bag, but there are two outstanding lights. Hezekiah restores the temple and temple worship. He restores the Jewish feasts, especially the Passover and unleavened bread (chapters 29-30). More importantly, he led the people to a place of true repentance (30:26-27, 31:1). Josiah would be the last Godly king of Judah. He too was faithful and sought to restore Judah spiritually. But his revival could be described best as reform, for the revival was only superficial. As soon as he dies, the people returned to their sin (chapters 34-35).
The most well-known verse in the book is 7:14, and so although it offers promises specifically to Judah, it does convey a principle that is always true: The Lord desires that we humble ourselves, seek Him and turn from wickedness.
Key verse: 2 Chronicles 7:14 – “My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear them from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
