King James Version

Book of 2 Chronicles

Author: Unknown. Date: 5th century BC. Content: Second Chronicles contains the history of Judah that was begun in First Chronicles. It deals with the glory of Solomon's reign, with special emphasis being placed upon the glory of the Temple. This emphasis is made because a priestly point of view pervades the book. The remaining kings of Judah are discussed, with a stress upon how the religious affairs of the nation were going. Hezekiah is given special mention because during his reign an extended revival took place. The destruction of Jerusalem and the exile of the people to Babylon is described, and the book ends with the Persian king's decree to let the people return home. Theme: Judah's history is described from religious point of view in this book. The righteous kings are commended and the evil kings are named so that all can see who is responsible for the rise and fall of the nation. The religious leaders and their ultimate failure to remain true to God added to the sin of Judah until God allowed his own chosen people to plunge themselves into ruin, as an example for all time that God will not tolerate sin.