◄ 2 Kings 15 ►
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Azariah Reigns in Judah (2 Chronicles 26:3–23) 1In the twenty-seventh year of Jeroboam’s reign over Israel, Azariaha son of Amaziah became king of Judah. 2He was sixteen years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-two years. His mother’s name was Jecoliah; she was from Jerusalem. 3And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father Amaziah had done. 4Nevertheless, the high places were not taken away; the people continued sacrificing and burning incense there. 5And the LORD afflicted the king with leprosyb until the day he died, so that he lived in a separate house while his son Jotham had charge of the palace and governed the people of the land. 6As for the rest of the acts of Azariah, along with all his accomplishments, are they not written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Judah? 7And Azariah rested with his fathers and was buried near themc in the City of David. And his son Jotham reigned in his place. Zechariah Reigns in Israel 8In the thirty-eighth year of Azariah’s reign over Judah, Zechariah son of Jeroboam became king of Israel, and he reigned in Samaria six months. 9And he did evil in the sight of the LORD, as his fathers had done. He did not turn away from the sins that Jeroboam son of Nebat had caused Israel to commit. 10Then Shallum son of Jabesh conspired against Zechariah, struck him down and killed him in front of the people,d and reigned in his place. 11As for the rest of the acts of Zechariah, they are indeed written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Israel. 12So the word of the LORD spoken to Jehu was fulfilled: “Four generations of your sons will sit on the throne of Israel.” Shallum Reigns in Israel 13In the thirty-ninth year of Uzziah’se reign over Judah, Shallum son of Jabesh became king, and he reigned in Samaria one full month. 14Then Menahem son of Gadi went up from Tirzah to Samaria, struck down and killed Shallum son of Jabesh, and reigned in his place. 15As for the rest of the acts of Shallum, along with the conspiracy he led, they are indeed written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Israel. 16At that time Menahem, starting from Tirzah, attacked Tiphsah and everyone in its vicinity, because they would not open their gates. So he attacked Tiphsah and ripped open all the pregnant women. Menahem Reigns in Israel 17In the thirty-ninth year of Azariah’s reign over Judah, Menahem son of Gadi became king of Israel, and he reigned in Samaria ten years. 18And he did evil in the sight of the LORD, and throughout his reign he did not turn away from the sins that Jeroboam son of Nebat had caused Israel to commit. 19Then Pulf king of Assyria invaded the land, and Menahem gave Pul a thousand talents of silverg in order to gain his support and strengthen his own grip on the kingdom. 20Menahem exacted this money from each of the wealthy men of Israel—fifty shekels of silverh from each man—to give to the king of Assyria. So the king of Assyria withdrew and did not remain in the land. 21As for the rest of the acts of Menahem, along with all his accomplishments, are they not written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Israel? 22And Menahem rested with his fathers, and his son Pekahiah reigned in his place. Pekahiah Reigns in Israel 23In the fiftieth year of Azariah’s reign over Judah, Pekahiah son of Menahem became king of Israel and reigned in Samaria two years. 24And he did evil in the sight of the LORD and did not turn away from the sins that Jeroboam son of Nebat had caused Israel to commit. 25Then his officer, Pekah son of Remaliah, conspired against him along with Argob, Arieh, and fifty men of Gilead. And at the citadel of the king’s palace in Samaria, Pekah struck down and killed Pekahiah and reigned in his place. 26As for the rest of the acts of Pekahiah, along with all his accomplishments, they are indeed written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Israel. Pekah Reigns in Israel 27In the fifty-second year of Azariah’s reign over Judah, Pekah son of Remaliah became king of Israel, and he reigned in Samaria twenty years. 28And he did evil in the sight of the LORD and did not turn away from the sins that Jeroboam son of Nebat had caused Israel to commit. 29In the days of Pekah king of Israel, Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria came and captured Ijon, Abel-beth-maacah, Janoah, Kedesh, Hazor, Gilead, and Galilee, including all the land of Naphtali, and he took the people as captives to Assyria. 30Then Hoshea son of Elah led a conspiracy against Pekah son of Remaliah. In the twentieth year of Jotham son of Uzziah, Hoshea attacked Pekah, killed him, and reigned in his place. 31As for the rest of the acts of Pekah, along with all his accomplishments, they are indeed written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Israel. Jotham Reigns in Judah (2 Chronicles 27:1–9) 32In the second year of the reign of Pekah son of Remaliah over Israel, Jotham son of Uzziah became king of Judah. 33He was twenty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem sixteen years. His mother’s name was Jerushai daughter of Zadok. 34And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father Uzziah had done. 35Nevertheless, the high places were not taken away; the people continued sacrificing and burning incense there. Jotham rebuilt the Upper Gate of the house of the LORD. 36As for the rest of the acts of Jotham, along with his accomplishments, are they not written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Judah? 37(In those days the LORD began to send Rezin king of Aram and Pekah son of Remaliah against Judah.) 38And Jotham rested with his fathers and was buried with them in the City of David his father. And his son Ahaz reigned in his place. Footnotes: 1 a Azariah is also called Uzziah; also in verses 6, 7, 8, 17, 23, and 27; see 2 Chronicles 26:1. 5 b Leprosy was a term used for various skin diseases; see Leviticus 13. 7 c Literally with his fathers; see 2 Chronicles 26:23. 10 d Hebrew; some LXX manuscripts in Ibleam 13 e Uzziah is also called Azariah; also in verses 32 and 34; see verse 1. 19 f Pul is another name for Tiglath-pileser; see verse 29. 19 g 1,000 talents is approximately 37.7 tons or 34.2 metric tons of silver. 20 h 50 shekels is approximately 1.26 pounds or 569.8 grams of silver. 33 i Jerusha is a variant of Jerushah; see 2 Chronicles 27:1. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 2 Kings 15 Summary Azariah, Zechariah, Shallum, Menahem Verses 1–7 – Azariah/Uzziah Rules Judah Azariah (Uzziah) begins to reign at sixteen and rules fifty-two years in Jerusalem. “He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD… except the high places were not removed”. Because he usurps priestly duties (cf. 2 Chron 26), the LORD strikes him with leprosy, and he lives in isolation while his son Jotham manages palace and justice. Verses 8–12 – Zechariah’s Six-Month Throne in Israel Jeroboam II’s son Zechariah rules only six months, continuing “the sins of Jeroboam.” Shallum assassinates him, ending Jehu’s four-generation promise (2 Kings 10:30). Verses 13–16 – Shallum’s One-Month Interlude Shallum reigns a single month in Samaria before Menahem strikes him down. Menahem then ravages Tiphsah, ripping open pregnant women—graphic evidence of Israel’s moral slide. Verses 17–22 – Menahem’s Ten Years and Assyrian Tribute Menahem rules ten years. To secure his throne he gives “one thousand talents of silver to Pul king of Assyria” (v. 19). The money is raised by taxing Israel’s wealthy—fifty shekels each. Verses 23–26 – Pekahiah’s Two Years and Palace Coup Menahem’s son Pekahiah rules two years, persisting in idolatry. Pekah son of Remaliah and fifty Gileadites assassinate him in the citadel at Samaria. Verses 27–31 – Pekah’s Twenty Years and Assyrian Invasion Pekah reigns twenty years, also doing evil. Tiglath-Pileser III captures Ijon, Abel-beth-maacah, Galilee, and Gilead, deporting inhabitants to Assyria (v. 29). Hoshea conspires and murders Pekah, taking the throne. Verses 32–38 – Jotham’s Sixteen Years in Judah In Pekah’s second year, Jotham succeeds Uzziah. He “did what was right,” builds the upper gate of the temple, yet leaves high places. The LORD begins sending Rezin of Aram and Pekah against Judah, setting the stage for the Syro-Ephraimite crisis. 2 Kings 15 depicts an era of constant change and political instability in the history of Israel and Judah. This chapter records the reigns of multiple kings, illustrating a time characterized by rebellion, conspiracy, and idolatry, alongside an ongoing struggle for faithfulness to God. Historical Setting: Rising Assyria and the Fractured Kingdoms • Pul (Tiglath-Pileser III) unified Assyria in 745 BC, pressing westward. • Israel, weakened by idolatry and chronic coups (four kings in thirteen years), buys temporary peace with tribute. • Judah enjoys relative stability under Uzziah and Jotham, yet compromises in worship open doors to external threats. Chronology and Co-Regencies Synchronizing Judah and Israel is smoothed by recognizing co-regencies: • Azariah contracts leprosy around 750 BC; Jotham rules alongside him. • Jotham likely begins as coregent circa 750/749 BC and becomes sole king about 740 BC. This explains the overlapping year counts between Jotham and Pekah (cf. v. 32). Archaeological Corroboration • Assyrian annals: Tiglath-Pileser III lists “Menahem of Samaria” paying tribute of silver. • Nimrud clay tablets mention deportations from “Gal’azu” (Galilee), aligning with v. 29. • A limestone plaque from Kuntillet Ajrud references “Yahweh of Samaria,” affirming syncretistic worship in Israel. • Seismic layers at Hazor and other sites point to the great earthquake during Uzziah’s reign (cf. Amos 1:1). Leadership Patterns: Stability vs. Chaos Judah: Long reigns (Uzziah 52 yrs; Jotham 16 yrs) give civil order, yet hidden sin festers. Israel: Rapid turnover—Zechariah, Shallum, Menahem, Pekahiah, Pekah—shows what Proverbs 28:2 declares: “When a country is rebellious, it has many rulers.” The High Places—Persistent Compromise Repeated notes that “the high places were not removed” (vv. 4, 35) echo Deuteronomy 12:2-4. Partial obedience leaves footholds for idolatry, eventually attracting divine discipline. Covenant and Consequence Leviticus 26 warns that cowardly kings, disease, and foreign domination will follow covenant breach. Each negative element in 2 Kings 15 (leprosy, coups, Assyria’s domination) matches those curses. Cross-References and Echoes • Zechariah’s fall fulfills the word to Jehu (2 Kings 10:30). • Menahem’s cruelty parallels earlier behavior at Gibeah (Hosea 10:9-10). • Jotham’s reign foreshadows the prophecies of Isaiah 7; Rezin and Pekah will soon attack Judah. • Uzziah’s leprosy mirrors Miriam (Numbers 12) and king Uzziah’s pride is warned against in 2 Chron 26:16. Practical Takeaways 1. Long tenure does not guarantee lasting influence if hidden pride and compromise abide (Uzziah). 2. Political intrigue cannot secure a nation when spiritual foundations crumble (Israel’s coups). 3. Buying peace with oppressive powers (Menahem and Assyria) may postpone but cannot prevent judgment. 4. Faithful obedience, even in imperfect settings, brings relative blessing (Jotham), yet abandoned altars invite future conflict. Messianic Thread Despite tumult, the Davidic line endures through Uzziah and Jotham, preserving promises that culminate in Christ (2 Samuel 7:16; Matthew 1:9). Every overthrow in Israel throws Judah’s unbroken line into sharper relief, underscoring God’s covenant faithfulness. Looking Ahead Chapter 16 will reveal how Ahaz will mishandle the looming threat of Rezin and Pekah, whereas Israel, under Hoshea, drifts toward final exile (2 Kings 17). The seeds sown in 2 Kings 15 germinate into judgment and, eventually, hope through the enduring Davidic promise. Connections to Additional Scriptures Pride and Humility Proverbs 16:18 - Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. Faithful Leadership 1 Timothy 3:1-7 - Qualifications for overseers, emphasizing the importance of character and faithfulness. God's Sovereignty Romans 8:28 - And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. Teaching Points The Reign of Azariah (Uzziah) Azariah became king of Judah and reigned for 52 years. He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father Amaziah had done (2 Kings 15:3). However, he failed to remove the high places, and his pride led to his downfall (2 Kings 15:4-5). The Consequences of Sin Azariah's pride resulted in leprosy, and he lived in isolation until his death (2 Kings 15:5). This highlights the personal consequences of sin, even for those who generally follow God. The Cycle of Kings in Israel The chapter details the reigns of several kings of Israel, including Zechariah, Shallum, Menahem, Pekahiah, and Pekah. Each king's reign is marked by violence, idolatry, and political instability, reflecting the nation's spiritual decline. God's Sovereignty Despite the chaos and unfaithfulness of the kings, God's sovereign plan continues. The prophecy given to Jehu that his descendants would sit on the throne of Israel for four generations is fulfilled with Zechariah (2 Kings 15:12). The Importance of Faithful Leadership The chapter contrasts the relatively stable reign of Azariah in Judah with the turmoil in Israel, underscoring the impact of a leader's faithfulness to God. Practical Applications Guard Against Pride Like Azariah, we must be vigilant against pride, which can lead to our downfall. Regularly examine your heart and seek humility before God. Remove Spiritual High Places Identify and eliminate any high places in your life—areas where you compromise or allow sin to persist. Value Godly Leadership Whether in the church, community, or home, strive to be a leader who honors God and leads others in righteousness. Trust in God's Sovereignty Even when circumstances seem chaotic, remember that God is in control and His purposes will prevail. People 1. Azariah (Uzziah) Azariah, also known as Uzziah, was the king of Judah. He began his reign at the age of sixteen and reigned for fifty-two years in Jerusalem. He is noted for doing what was right in the eyes of the LORD, although he did not remove the high places. His name in Hebrew, עֲזַרְיָה (Azaryah), means "Yahweh has helped." 2. Jotham Jotham was the son of Azariah (Uzziah) and became king of Judah after his father. He is mentioned as having a role during his father's reign due to Azariah's leprosy. 3. Zechariah Zechariah was the king of Israel and the son of Jeroboam II. He reigned for six months and did evil in the sight of the LORD, continuing the sins of Jeroboam, son of Nebat. 4. Shallum Shallum was the son of Jabesh and conspired against Zechariah, assassinating him and taking the throne. He reigned for only one month in Samaria. 5. Menahem Menahem was the son of Gadi and became king of Israel after assassinating Shallum. He reigned for ten years and is noted for his brutality and for exacting tribute from the wealthy to pay the Assyrian king. 6. Pekahiah Pekahiah was the son of Menahem and succeeded him as king of Israel. He reigned for two years and continued in the sins of Jeroboam. 7. Pekah Pekah was the son of Remaliah and a captain in Pekahiah's army. He conspired against Pekahiah, assassinated him, and became king of Israel. He reigned for twenty years. 8. Tiglath-Pileser Tiglath-Pileser was the king of Assyria who invaded Israel during Pekah's reign, capturing several cities and territories. 9. Hoshea Hoshea was the son of Elah and conspired against Pekah, assassinating him and becoming the last king of Israel. 10. Jotham Jotham is mentioned again as the son of Uzziah (Azariah) and king of Judah, who began to reign in the second year of Pekah's reign over Israel. Places 1. Samaria Samaria is the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. It is mentioned in 2 Kings 15:8, where Zechariah, the son of Jeroboam, becomes king over Israel in Samaria. The Hebrew root for Samaria is "שֹׁמְרוֹן" (Shomron). 2. Jerusalem Jerusalem is the capital of the Southern Kingdom of Judah. It is referenced in 2 Kings 15:2, where Azariah (Uzziah) becomes king of Judah and reigns in Jerusalem. The Hebrew root for Jerusalem is "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim). 3. Gath Gath is a Philistine city mentioned in 2 Kings 15:37, where the LORD sends Rezin king of Aram and Pekah son of Remaliah against Judah. The Hebrew root for Gath is "גַּת" (Gat). 4. Aram Aram, often translated as Syria, is a region and kingdom north of Israel. It is mentioned in 2 Kings 15:37, where Rezin, king of Aram, comes against Judah. The Hebrew root for Aram is "אֲרָם" (Aram). 5. Assyria Assyria is a major Mesopotamian kingdom and empire. It is mentioned in 2 Kings 15:19, where Pul, the king of Assyria, invades the land. The Hebrew root for Assyria is "אַשּׁוּר" (Ashur). Events 1. Reign of Azariah (Uzziah) in Judah Azariah, also known as Uzziah, becomes king of Judah and reigns for 52 years. He is noted for doing what is right in the eyes of the LORD, following the example of his father Amaziah. However, the high places were not removed, and the people continued to offer sacrifices and burn incense there. (2 Kings 15:1-4) 2. Azariah's Leprosy The LORD strikes Azariah with leprosy, and he lives in a separate house while his son Jotham governs the people. This affliction is a result of his pride and unauthorized incense offering, as detailed in 2 Chronicles 26:16-21. (2 Kings 15:5) 3. Death of Azariah Azariah dies and is buried with his fathers in the City of David, and his son Jotham succeeds him as king. (2 Kings 15:6-7) 4. Reign of Zechariah in Israel Zechariah, the son of Jeroboam, becomes king of Israel and reigns for six months. He does evil in the sight of the LORD, continuing the sins of Jeroboam. (2 Kings 15:8-9) 5. Assassination of Zechariah Shallum, the son of Jabesh, conspires against Zechariah, strikes him down in front of the people, and takes his place as king. This fulfills the word of the LORD spoken to Jehu that his descendants would sit on the throne of Israel to the fourth generation. (2 Kings 15:10-12) 6. Reign of Shallum in Israel Shallum reigns for one month in Samaria before being assassinated by Menahem, the son of Gadi. (2 Kings 15:13-14) 7. Reign of Menahem in Israel Menahem becomes king and reigns for ten years. He does evil in the sight of the LORD, continuing the sins of Jeroboam. (2 Kings 15:17-18) 8. Menahem's Brutality Menahem attacks Tiphsah and its territory, and he is noted for his brutality, including ripping open pregnant women. (2 Kings 15:16) 9. Pul's Invasion and Tribute Pul, the king of Assyria, invades the land, and Menahem pays him a thousand talents of silver to gain his support and strengthen his hold on the kingdom. (2 Kings 15:19-20) 10. Death of Menahem Menahem dies, and his son Pekahiah succeeds him as king. (2 Kings 15:21-22) 11. Reign of Pekahiah in Israel Pekahiah reigns for two years and does evil in the sight of the LORD, continuing the sins of Jeroboam. (2 Kings 15:23-24) 12. Assassination of Pekahiah Pekah, the son of Remaliah, conspires against Pekahiah, kills him in the citadel of the king’s palace, and takes his place as king. (2 Kings 15:25) 13. Reign of Pekah in Israel Pekah reigns for twenty years and does evil in the sight of the LORD, continuing the sins of Jeroboam. (2 Kings 15:27-28) 14. Tiglath-Pileser’s Conquests During Pekah's reign, Tiglath-Pileser, the king of Assyria, captures several cities and regions, including Gilead and Galilee, and deports the people to Assyria. (2 Kings 15:29) 15. Assassination of Pekah Hoshea, the son of Elah, conspires against Pekah, strikes him down, and becomes king in his place. (2 Kings 15:30) 16. Reign of Jotham in Judah Jotham, the son of Uzziah, becomes king of Judah and reigns for sixteen years. He does what is right in the eyes of the LORD, but the high places are not removed. (2 Kings 15:32-35) 17. Construction Projects of Jotham Jotham builds the Upper Gate of the house of the LORD and undertakes other construction projects. (2 Kings 15:35) 18. Death of Jotham Jotham dies and is buried with his fathers in the City of David, and his son Ahaz succeeds him as king. (2 Kings 15:38) Lessons from 2 Kings 15 1. The Importance of Righteous Leadership In 2 Kings 15, we see a series of kings who ruled over Israel and Judah, each with varying degrees of faithfulness to God. The chapter reminds us that righteous leadership is crucial for the well-being of a nation. As Proverbs 29:2 says, "When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan." Leaders who seek God's guidance and adhere to His commandments can lead their people toward prosperity and peace. 2. The Consequences of Sin The reigns of the kings in this chapter illustrate the consequences of turning away from God. Many of these kings did evil in the sight of the Lord, leading to instability and turmoil. As Romans 6:23 states, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." Sin has real consequences, but turning to God offers redemption and hope. 3. The Power of God's Patience Despite the repeated disobedience of the kings, God showed remarkable patience. He allowed time for repentance and change, demonstrating His long-suffering nature. As 2 Peter 3:9 reminds us, "The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." 4. The Role of Prophets Prophets played a significant role in guiding the kings and the people back to God. They were the voice of truth in times of moral decline. This reminds us of the importance of listening to those who speak God's truth into our lives. As 2 Timothy 3:16 says, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness." 5. The Impact of Legacy The chapter highlights how the actions of one generation affect the next. The kings' legacies influenced their successors, for better or worse. This serves as a reminder that our actions today can have lasting impacts on future generations. As Proverbs 13:22 states, "A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children." 6. The Need for Personal Accountability Each king was held accountable for his actions, regardless of his predecessors' deeds. This underscores the importance of personal responsibility in our walk with God. As Galatians 6:5 says, "For each one should carry his own load." We are each responsible for our relationship with God and our actions. 7. The Dangers of Complacency Some kings started well but became complacent, leading to their downfall. This warns us against becoming spiritually complacent. As 1 Corinthians 10:12 advises, "So the one who thinks he is standing firm should be careful not to fall." We must remain vigilant in our faith journey. 8. The Call to Repentance Despite their failures, the kings had opportunities to repent and turn back to God. This highlights God's desire for us to return to Him, no matter how far we've strayed. As Acts 3:19 encourages, "Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away." 9. The Sovereignty of God Throughout the chapter, God's sovereignty is evident. He is in control, even when human leaders fail. This reassures us that God is always at work, orchestrating His divine plan. As Romans 8:28 promises, "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose." 10. The Hope of Redemption Ultimately, 2 Kings 15 points us to the hope of redemption through Jesus Christ. Despite the failures of earthly kings, God provided a perfect King in Jesus, who offers salvation to all who believe. As John 3:16 declares, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." This is the ultimate lesson and promise we can hold onto. Topics 1. Reign of Azariah (Uzziah) in Judah Azariah, also known as Uzziah, becomes king of Judah and reigns for 52 years. He is noted for doing what is right in the eyes of the LORD, following the example of his father Amaziah. However, the high places were not removed, and the people continued to offer sacrifices there. His reign is marked by prosperity and military success, but he is struck with leprosy as a consequence of his pride. The Hebrew root for "leprosy" (צָרַעַת, tzara'at) indicates a serious skin disease that rendered him ceremonially unclean. 2. Reign of Zechariah in Israel Zechariah, the son of Jeroboam II, reigns over Israel for six months. He continues the sinful practices of his predecessors, leading Israel into idolatry. His assassination by Shallum fulfills the prophecy given to Jehu that his descendants would sit on the throne of Israel to the fourth generation. 3. Reign of Shallum in Israel Shallum seizes the throne by assassinating Zechariah but reigns for only one month before being killed by Menahem. His brief rule is characterized by political instability and violence, reflecting the turbulent period in Israel's history. 4. Reign of Menahem in Israel Menahem becomes king after killing Shallum and reigns for ten years. His rule is marked by brutality, including the attack on Tiphsah and the ripping open of pregnant women. He imposes a heavy tribute on Israel to pay off the Assyrian king Pul, indicating the growing threat of Assyrian dominance. 5. Reign of Pekahiah in Israel Pekahiah, the son of Menahem, reigns for two years. Like his predecessors, he continues in the sins of Jeroboam, leading Israel into further idolatry. His reign ends when he is assassinated by Pekah, one of his chief officers. 6. Reign of Pekah in Israel Pekah reigns for twenty years after assassinating Pekahiah. His reign is marked by continued idolatry and political alliances that lead to conflict with Assyria. During his rule, Tiglath-Pileser III of Assyria captures several cities in Israel, signaling the beginning of the end for the northern kingdom. 7. Reign of Jotham in Judah Jotham, the son of Uzziah, becomes king of Judah and reigns for sixteen years. He is commended for doing what is right in the eyes of the LORD, similar to his father, but like previous kings, he fails to remove the high places. His reign is noted for building projects and military successes, but also for the growing threat from neighboring nations. Each of these topics highlights the ongoing struggle between faithfulness to God and the persistent idolatry that plagued both the northern and southern kingdoms. The Hebrew and Greek roots of key terms, such as "leprosy" and "idolatry," underscore the spiritual and physical consequences of the kings' actions. Themes 1. The Consequences of Sin and Disobedience 2 Kings 15 highlights the recurring theme of sin and its consequences. The chapter details the reigns of several kings of Israel and Judah, many of whom "did evil in the sight of the LORD" (2 Kings 15:9). The Hebrew word for "evil" (רַע, ra) underscores the moral and spiritual failures that lead to divine judgment and instability in the kingdom. 2. The Importance of Righteous Leadership The chapter contrasts the reigns of kings who followed God's commandments with those who did not. For example, Azariah (Uzziah) is noted for doing "what was right in the eyes of the LORD" (2 Kings 15:3), although he did not remove the high places. This theme emphasizes the need for leaders to fully commit to God's ways to ensure peace and prosperity. 3. Divine Judgment and Mercy Despite the repeated disobedience of the kings, God's mercy is evident. The chapter shows that while God allows consequences for sin, He also provides opportunities for repentance and restoration. The Hebrew root for "mercy" (חֶסֶד, chesed) is implicit in God's patience and continued engagement with His people. 4. Political Instability and Its Spiritual Roots The frequent changes in leadership, assassinations, and conspiracies (e.g., the assassination of Zechariah in 2 Kings 15:10) reflect the spiritual decay of the nation. The instability serves as a reminder of the spiritual principle that turning away from God leads to chaos and disorder. 5. The Role of Prophecy and Fulfillment The chapter references the fulfillment of God's word through the prophets, such as the prophecy concerning the house of Jehu (2 Kings 15:12). This theme underscores the reliability of God's word and the importance of heeding prophetic warnings. 6. The Continuity of the Davidic Line Despite the turmoil in the northern kingdom of Israel, the Davidic line in Judah continues, as seen in the reign of Azariah and Jotham. This theme highlights God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, as the Hebrew word for "covenant" (בְּרִית, berit) signifies a binding agreement that God honors despite human failure. Prayer Points Pray for humility and a heart that seeks to honor God in all areas of life. Ask God to reveal and help you remove any high places or areas of compromise. Pray for leaders in your church and community to be guided by God's wisdom and righteousness. Thank God for His sovereignty and ask for trust in His plans, even when they are not immediately clear. Answering Tough Questions 1. 2 Kings 15:1 begins Azariah’s reign in Jeroboam II’s 27th year, yet surrounding passages suggest conflicting dates—how can these discrepancies be resolved? 2. 2 Kings 15:5 states God struck Azariah with leprosy with little explanation—why is the cause, detailed in 2 Chronicles 26, absent here? 3. 2 Kings 15:16 records Menahem’s brutal attack on Tiphsah—does any historical or archaeological evidence corroborate such violence? 4. 2 Kings 15:19 speaks of Menahem paying tribute to Pul, king of Assyria—do extrabiblical sources confirm this tribute or Pul’s identity? 5. 2 Kings 15:12 references a prophecy fulfilled through Jehu’s dynasty—how do we address claims that the text was written or edited post-event to appear prophetic? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. Compare and contrast the reigns of the kings in Judah and Israel. What were the key differences in their leadership styles and outcomes? 2. How does the constant change in leadership impact Israel and Judah, both politically and spiritually? 3. What can we learn from the failure of many kings to remove high places in their lands? 4. Discuss the role of divine judgment in the political turmoil experienced by Israel and Judah. 5. How does 2 Kings 15 relate to today's political and spiritual landscape? 6. How does the cycle of violence, demonstrated by the assassination of kings, reflect the state of Israel's society during this period? 7. How could different outcomes have been achieved by the various kings mentioned if they remained faithful to God’s commandments? 8. Discuss the significance of Menahem's tribute to the Assyrian king. What does this indicate about Israel's relationship with Assyria and its political standing at the time? 9. How would you handle a leadership transition in your life or community, informed by the examples in 2 Kings 15? 10. How does this chapter inform our understanding of God's sovereignty amidst political instability? 11. What can we learn about God’s character from His responses to idolatry in Israel and Judah? 12. How can the principles from 2 Kings 15 guide your response to today's societal sins? 13. How does the prophecy fulfilled through Jehu’s dynasty (2 Kings 10:30) relate to God's faithfulness and sovereignty? 14. What lessons can modern leaders learn from the kings' frequently failing to uphold righteousness? 15. How might the reign of these kings have been different if they had sought counsel from God? 16. What are some ways you can promote faithfulness and obedience to God within your sphere of influence? 17. How does the political turmoil and violence in 2 Kings 15 inform your perspective on current global conflicts? 18. What can the church today learn from the ongoing idolatry and disobedience in ancient Israel and Judah? 19. In what ways does the punishment of God in these kingdoms encourage you to evaluate your personal faithfulness to God? 20. Given the repetitious cycle of sin seen in the kings, how can we break similar cycles in our lives and societies today? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions