It’s Over

1 and 2 Chronicles: different author, sometimes different perspectives, but the same ending as 1 Samuel – 2 Kings: the Southern Kingdom of Judah goes into exile in Babylon, as I’ve written before.

The Chronicles account makes the reason clear:

The evil mindset spread to the leaders and priests and filtered down to the people—it kicked off an epidemic of evil, repeating the abominations of the pagans and polluting The Temple of GOD so recently consecrated in Jerusalem. GOD, the God of their ancestors, repeatedly sent warning messages to them. Out of compassion for both his people and his Temple he wanted to give them every chance possible. But they wouldn’t listen; they poked fun at God’s messengers, despised the message itself, and in general treated the prophets like idiots. GOD became more and more angry until there was no turning back—GOD called in Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, who came and killed indiscriminately—and right in The Temple itself; it was a ruthless massacre: young men and virgins, the elderly and weak—they were all the same to him. (2 Chronicles 36.14 – 17, MSG)

As I wrote after the election, things continue until they don’t.

He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck, will suddenly be broken beyond healing. (Proverbs 29.1, ESV)

[Jesus said, ] No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. (Luke 13.5, ESV)

The Chronicles account ends the way Ezra begins: King Cyrus orders the Temple to be rebuilt:

In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia—this fulfilled the message of GOD preached by Jeremiah—GOD moved Cyrus king of Persia to make an official announcement throughout his kingdom; he wrote it out as follows: “From Cyrus king of Persia a proclamation: GOD, the God of the heavens, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth. He has also assigned me to build him a Temple of worship at Jerusalem in Judah. All who belong to GOD’s people are urged to return—and may your GOD be with you! Move forward!” (2 Chronicles 36.22 – 23, MSG)

The book of Ezra tells us of the rebuilding of the Temple. Nehemiah tells us of the rebuilding of the Wall of Jerusalem. Stay tuned.

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