2 Kings 21:14

So I will forsake the remnant of My inheritance and deliver them into the hands of their enemies. And they will become plunder and spoil to all their enemies,

Study Bible

So I will forsake
The Hebrew root for "forsake" is "עָזַב" (azab), which conveys a sense of abandonment or leaving behind. In the context of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, this is a profound statement. Historically, God had promised to be with Israel, but their persistent idolatry and disobedience led to this severe consequence. This phrase underscores the seriousness of turning away from God and the resulting divine judgment.

the remnant of My inheritance
The term "remnant" refers to what is left of a larger group, often used in the Bible to describe those who remain faithful or are left after judgment. "Inheritance" in Hebrew is "נַחֲלָה" (nachalah), which signifies a possession or heritage. Israel is often referred to as God's inheritance, highlighting their special status among the nations. This phrase indicates that even the remaining faithful ones are not exempt from the consequences of the nation's collective sin.

and deliver them into the hands of their enemies
The act of delivering into the hands of enemies is a common biblical motif for divine judgment. The Hebrew word "נָתַן" (natan) means to give or deliver. This phrase reflects the historical reality of Israel's conquest by foreign powers due to their disobedience. It serves as a sobering reminder of the protective hand of God being removed, allowing adversaries to prevail.

and they will become plunder and spoil
"Plunder" and "spoil" are terms that describe the taking of goods by force, often used in the context of war. The Hebrew words "בַּז" (baz) and "שָׁלָל" (shalal) emphasize the totality of loss and humiliation. This phrase paints a vivid picture of the consequences of sin, where the people of God, once blessed and protected, become vulnerable and exploited.

to all their enemies
The phrase "to all their enemies" indicates the comprehensive nature of the judgment. It is not just one enemy but multiple adversaries that will come against them. This reflects the historical invasions by Assyrians and Babylonians, among others. It serves as a warning of the far-reaching effects of turning away from God, where protection is withdrawn, and adversaries are empowered.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Manasseh
The king of Judah during this time, known for his idolatry and evil practices, which provoked God's anger.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which is being addressed in this passage as the remnant of God's inheritance.

3. Enemies of Judah
The surrounding nations that God would use as instruments of judgment against Judah.

4. God's Inheritance
Refers to the people of Israel, whom God chose as His own possession.

5. Prophetic Judgment
The declaration of God's intention to forsake Judah due to their persistent disobedience and idolatry.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Idolatry
Idolatry leads to spiritual and physical ruin. Manasseh's reign exemplifies how turning away from God results in severe consequences.

God's Righteous Judgment
God's decision to forsake Judah underscores His holiness and justice. He cannot tolerate sin indefinitely.

The Importance of Repentance
While judgment is pronounced, the broader biblical account shows that repentance can lead to restoration, as seen in Manasseh's later life.

The Role of Leadership
Leaders have a profound impact on the spiritual direction of a nation. Manasseh's actions led Judah into sin, highlighting the responsibility of godly leadership.

Hope Amidst Judgment
Even in judgment, God's ultimate plan is redemptive. The exile was a means to purify and eventually restore His people.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Manasseh's reign illustrate the dangers of idolatry, and what modern forms of idolatry might we need to guard against?

2. In what ways does God's judgment on Judah serve as a warning for us today, both individually and collectively as a church?

3. How can we apply the principle of repentance in our lives, especially when we recognize areas where we have turned away from God?

4. What lessons can we learn from the leadership of Manasseh about the influence of leaders on the spiritual health of a community?

5. How does the theme of hope amidst judgment in 2 Kings 21:14 encourage us to trust in God's redemptive purposes, even when facing difficult circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, providing a backdrop for understanding the consequences faced by Judah.

2 Chronicles 33
Offers a parallel account of Manasseh's reign, including his eventual repentance, highlighting God's mercy even amidst judgment.

Isaiah 1
The prophet Isaiah speaks of Judah's rebellion and the call to repentance, echoing the themes of judgment and hope.

Jeremiah 7
Jeremiah warns of the coming destruction due to the people's idolatry, similar to the message in 2 Kings 21.

Romans 1
Discusses the consequences of turning away from God, drawing a parallel to Judah's spiritual decline.