DAY 311: JOURNEY THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR – 2 CHRONICLES 33-36

November 5, 2024

2 CHRONICLES 33-36
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DAY 311: JOURNEY THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR

Today we conclude our journey through the book of 2 Chronicles, by looking at King Manasseh, King Amon, King Josiah, King Jehoahaz, King Jehoiakim, King Jehoiachin, and King Zedekiah.

Take a moment and pray, asking for understanding of today’s reading. Read 2 Chronicles 33-36. Let’s journey!

The Books of First and Second Chronicles, which were originally written as one book and later divided due to length, chronicles the entire history of Israel up to that point, beginning with Adam, and ending with the return of the Israelites from exile. Its author is unknown, although clues in the text reveal that it was written several hundred years after the return from exile. In the Jewish order of Scriptures, this book comes after Ezra and Nehemiah, both of which chronicle the return of the Israelites to Jerusalem. This book was written to provide hope for the promised Messiah, and hope for the new temple.

2 Chronicles 33-36: The final chapters of this book are filled with several kings who ignore the Lord and encourage the worship of idolatry. King Manasseh, at first, led the people astray, before being humbled and returning to worshiping the Lord. King Amon reigned only two years before being assassinated. Amon’s son, Josiah, became king at the age of eight. He developed a relationship with the Lord and sought to purge Judah of idols and purity the land. Josiah worked to rebuild the temple and return worship in accordance with the law as given to Moses, including the celebration of the Passover. Josiah died because he did not listen to the Lord, and his son, Jehoahz briefly became king before being dethroned by the king of Egypt. King Jehoahz was followed by King Jehoiakim, King Jehoiachin, and King Zedekiah, all of whom did not follow the Lord. Their reigns culminated in the destruction of Jerusalem and the people of Judah being taken to Babylon. This book ends, with Cyrus, King of Persia allowing the people to return home to Jerusalem. (2 Chronicles 33:1-36:23)

After reading chapters 33 through 36, consider the following: Who is focused on in today’s reading? Keeping in mind who this book was written for, why would it have been important to know this history? How could it help provide hope for the future; God fulfilling His promise to Israel? What can we learn about God, His promises, and the future from studying this history?

Godspeace!