2 Kings 17
Main Highlights
Israel is exiled to Assyria as a consequence of their persistent idolatry and disobedience to God's covenant.
Key Verses
Against him came up Shalmaneser king of Assyria. And Hoshea became his vassal and paid him tribute. But the king of Assyria found treachery in Hoshea, for he had sent messengers to So, king of Egypt, and offered no tribute to the king of Assyria, as he had done year by year. Therefore the king of Assyria shut him up and bound him in prison.
This occurred because the people of Israel had sinned against the Lord their God, who had brought them up out of the land of Egypt from under the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt, and had feared other gods and walked in the customs of the nations whom the Lord drove out before the people of Israel, and in the customs that the kings of Israel had practiced.
Therefore the Lord was very angry with Israel and removed them out of his sight. None was left but the tribe of Judah only.
Scholar Insight
"The exile of Israel is a stark reminder of the consequences of covenant unfaithfulness." - Raymond B. Dillard & Tremper Longman III, An Introduction to the Old Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1994), 206"
Questions
What do we learn about God?
God is faithful to His covenant, but He also justly punishes disobedience. He warns before He judges and demonstrates patience.
How is Christ Connected?
The exile highlights the need for a true and lasting deliverance, which is ultimately found in Jesus.
What Theology concept is taught?
Covenant Theology: The relationship between God and His people based on promises and obligations.
Do we see Law or Grace?
The Israelites' rejection of God's law leads to their exile. This serves as a warning of the consequences of rejecting God's will, but also points to the need for His grace to restore a broken relationship.
Personal Application
We should take seriously the consequences of sin and strive to live in obedience to God's Word.
Join the conversation at the Christian Discussions Skool community.
COMMENT & DISCUSS