2 Kings 17:29

Nevertheless, the people of each nation continued to make their own gods in the cities where they had settled, and they set them up in the shrines that the people of Samaria had made on the high places.

Study Bible

Nevertheless
This word serves as a pivot, indicating a contrast or exception to what has been previously stated. In the context of 2 Kings 17, it highlights the persistence of idolatry despite God's clear commandments against it. The Hebrew root for "nevertheless" often conveys a sense of stubbornness or resistance, underscoring the people's unwillingness to fully commit to the worship of Yahweh.

each nation
This phrase refers to the various peoples that the Assyrian Empire relocated to Samaria after the exile of the Israelites. Historically, the Assyrians practiced a policy of resettling conquered peoples to prevent rebellion. Each group brought its own cultural and religious practices, which led to a syncretistic form of worship in the land.

made its own gods
The act of making gods is a direct violation of the first two commandments given to Israel. The Hebrew word for "made" implies crafting or fashioning, often used in the context of idol-making. This highlights the futility and human-centered nature of idolatry, as these gods were the work of human hands rather than the divine Creator.

put them in the shrines
Shrines, or "high places," were often elevated sites used for worship. Archaeological evidence shows that these sites were common in ancient Near Eastern cultures. The placement of idols in these shrines indicates a formalized, albeit misguided, attempt to establish religious practices in the new land.

of the high places
High places were originally intended for the worship of Yahweh before the temple was built in Jerusalem. However, they became centers of idolatrous worship. The Hebrew term for "high places" often carries a negative connotation in the biblical text, symbolizing Israel's spiritual adultery.

that the Samaritans had made
The Samaritans, a mixed population resulting from the Assyrian resettlement, are often viewed negatively in the biblical narrative. Their religious practices were a blend of Yahwism and paganism, which led to tension with the returning exiles from Babylon. This phrase underscores the compromised spiritual state of the region.

each nation in the cities where they lived
This repetition emphasizes the widespread nature of idolatry across the land. Each group maintained its distinct religious identity, leading to a fragmented and spiritually confused society. The phrase serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience to God's command to worship Him alone.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samaritans
A group of people living in the region of Samaria, who were a mix of Israelites and other nations brought in by the Assyrians. They practiced a syncretistic form of worship, blending the worship of Yahweh with that of other gods.

2. High Places
Elevated sites often used for worship in ancient Israel and surrounding regions. These were typically unauthorized places of worship where people offered sacrifices to various deities.

3. Assyrian Conquest
The event where the Assyrian Empire conquered the Northern Kingdom of Israel, leading to the deportation of many Israelites and the resettlement of foreign peoples in the land.

4. Foreign Nations
Various groups brought by the Assyrians to inhabit the land of Israel, each bringing their own deities and religious practices.

5. Idolatry
The worship of idols or false gods, which was a direct violation of the first two commandments given to Israel.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Syncretism
Mixing true worship with false practices leads to spiritual confusion and disobedience to God’s commands. Believers must guard against incorporating secular or non-biblical elements into their faith.

The Consequences of Disobedience
The fall of the Northern Kingdom serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from God. Persistent disobedience can lead to judgment and loss of God’s blessings.

The Importance of Pure Worship
God desires worship that is pure and in spirit and truth. Believers should strive to worship God according to His Word, avoiding the influence of cultural or societal pressures.

Cultural Influence on Faith
Just as the foreign nations influenced the Israelites, modern culture can impact Christian beliefs and practices. Christians must remain vigilant and rooted in Scripture to maintain the integrity of their faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the practice of syncretism in 2 Kings 17:29 compare to modern-day challenges in maintaining pure worship?

2. What are some ways that cultural influences can lead to idolatry in a believer's life today?

3. How can the account of the Northern Kingdom's fall serve as a warning for contemporary Christians?

4. In what ways can believers ensure that their worship remains true to biblical teachings?

5. How does understanding the historical context of the Samaritans enhance our reading of Jesus' interaction with the Samaritan woman in John 4?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:3-5
This passage outlines the first two commandments, prohibiting the worship of other gods and the making of idols, which directly contrasts with the actions described in 2 Kings 17:29.

1 Kings 12:28-31
This passage describes Jeroboam's establishment of golden calves and high places, setting a precedent for idolatry in the Northern Kingdom.

John 4:9
This verse highlights the historical animosity between Jews and Samaritans, partly due to the syncretistic worship practices that began during the events of 2 Kings 17.