INTRODUCTION TO 2 CHRONICLES

2 Chronicles continues the history of King David's royal line. The kings of Judah descended from David in unbroken succession until Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon invaded Judah and conquered Jerusalem in 586 BC. 2 Chronicles records the history of Judah from Solomon to the Exile to Babylon, then ends with the proclamation of Cyrus of Persia, who allowed the exiles to return and rebuild the temple. Solomon built the temple according to David's instructions. He establishes historical continuity with Bezalel, the one who built the tabernacle in the wilderness.

The Chronicler assesses the kings according to whether they were evil or good in the eyes of the Lord.

The Levites are the real heroes of 2 Chronicles. They were appointed to serve in the temple. They were Bible teachers; they influenced the kings for good.

Outline

1:1-9:31 - Solomon's reign; the temple built

10:1-36:14 - The kings of Judah

1. Give me wisdom (1-10)

God established David's son Solomon as king over his people. The first thing he did was to assemble all the leaders of Israel at Gibeon to offer sacrifices to the Lord on the historic bronze altar of Moses, and to inquire of the Lord. Solomon offered a thousand burnt offerings. That night God appeared to him and told him to ask for whatever he wanted. God gave him a blank check on an unlimited bank account. Solomon asked for wisdom and knowledge to be a good shepherd of God's people. He thought about how to fulfill his responsibilities rather than how to enjoy his privileges.

2. I will also give you wealth (11-17)

God was pleased with Solomon's request. Most men would have asked for wealth or honor or the death of their enemies. The Lord blessed Solomon with not only wisdom to rule God's people, but also with riches and honor such as no king before or after him ever had. (Note Dt 17:16,17.)

Application: Lord, give me a shepherd heart and wisdom to serve you and your people in my time.
One Word: Wisdom to serve God's people