In this volume from the Welwyn Commentary Series, the author shows how 2 Kings has something to say to us today. The history of God's people shows that there are two paths, one of which we must all choose - either we follow God, seeking always to please him or we fail to obey. We learn, as the first readers of 2 Kings did, that God remains faithful at all times to his people. As 2 Kings opens, we find the people of God divided into two kingdoms: Israel and Judah. Neither kingdom was to last. By the end of the book both kingdoms had been taken captive -- Israel by the Assyrians and, over 130 years later, Judah by the Babylonians. This was devastating; Roger Ellsworth shows that they needed help, which the author of 2 Kings provided for them. The themes of the book are just as vital for today: the need to obey God and trust his promises. Explanation is given as to why the exile had taken place, to urge the people to guard against dangers which they faced while in exile and to give them hope for the future. With these things firmly in place, they, as we, can face an uncertain future with a clear sense of direction and with a deep peace. The author draws the reader repeatedly to the Lord Jesus Christ as well as applying what he says pastorally.
