We study the Books of 1st and 2nd Kings by focusing on the relationship between key kings of Israel and Judah with the Prophets that God called along side them. We explore how these leaders determined the direction and outcomes of the people.

1. KINGS AND PROPHETS
The Importance of Leadership II

2. THE IMPORTANCE OF LEADERSHIP II
 In 2014, we did ”The importance of Leadership: a study in the book of
Judges”. The principle seen and taught in Judges is that leadership is
needed. People need to be led and Good and Bad outcomes spring from
“good” or “bad” leadership. These events occurred early in the development
of Israel as a nation. After the solid lead of both Moses and Joshua, the
people struggled to find firm footing. So they clamored for a ‘King’ to be
like other nations. Saul failed them, David is now past on. Solomon has left
them with a divided kingdom. It is in turmoil. The now northern kingdom
of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah will both be challenged with
finding strong faithful leaders after Solomon’s Reign. How do they do?
What does God do in an attempt to guide them along?

3. The Importance of Leadership: a study in Judges – Rewind and Review.
Lessons learned from both good and bad Leaders
So why do we need leaders? Isaiah 53:6
Selfish or Selfless? Is there a single quality/character trait that can identify good and bad leaders? If so, I believe that it
is this . A good captain will always go down with the ship. A bad one; well…, we’ve all heard of these cases.
Israel after Joshua, failed to stay focused on God. The new generation was not taught. This resulted in two fatal
consequences. 1) God is NOT Taught: the foundation is gone 2) No Foundation: Build new with IDOLS.
The system for Judges as leaders had already been established and they did attempt to do the job. But what do we
learn in Judges 2: 16-19
Othniel and Ehud brought peace, law and order. They offered early corrective stability.
In Deborah, we see strong faith, wisdom and the respect of many. She was a leader of leaders.
Barak had a combination of humility and courage. Jael was not a leader by ordination, yet displayed leadership in her
actions.
Gideon became a leader, not by choice, but by necessity and God’s call. He responded with a unique form of
leadership. His style was one of deliberate caution and thoughtfulness.

4. Abimelech was brash, scheming, and reckless.
Jephthah (son of a harlot) put the group above self-interest. He lived by the principle of the greater
good.
Sampson – Not only is he the hardest Judge to understand, He is most likely the hardest biblical
personality period to nail down. After much study and discernment, guided by the Word of God, I now
conclude that he was indeed a consistently faithful and spirit led leader for most of his life. He had two
major error sexually, one early on with the harlot and the other at the end of his ministry and life with
Delilah.
Micah had a heart for God, but he was self-willed and self-deceived. His actions led an entire tribe’s
deception and the eventual infection of the entire nation.
Lastly, when met with a national tragedy, the leadership made both great and horrific choices. The good
ones included the hand of God. God was unfortunately left out of the decision making process in the
bad ones.

5. THE ROLE OF THE PROPHET
End of the life of David
 1 Kings chap 1
 Rebellious Adonijah attempts to reign
 Nathan the Prophet give David
guidance
 Solomon is rightly anointed as King.
End of the life of Solomon
 1 Kings chap 11
 Solomon’s sin has cause God to
remove him from leadership
 God raises up Jeroboam
 Ahijah the Prophet is sent to confirm
God’s will in replacing Solomon
 The Kingdom is divided
 Shemaiah the Prophet confirms to
Rehoboam God’s plan for him in the
south and Jeroboam in the north.

6. Historic Background of people and events
David’s son Absalom led a revolt against him. He has now passed.
David’s faithful team during that time was Zadok and Abiathar the Priests, Joab the Military leader and
Nathan the Prophet.
David is now of advanced age and dying. His now eldest son is Adonijah. He is self-willed and assumes
the role of next King. He is said to be a honorable/good man. It is also noted that David is aware of his
intentions. However, he remains neutral. He does not endorse him nor does he advise against him.
Abishag, a Shulamite young woman is given to David for his care.
Adonijah gets a host of soldiers on his side for the ready to take over power, but more important several
key leaders of David join with him. This includes, Joab and Abiathar.
However, Zadok and Nathan both stay faithfully committed to David.

7. Adonijah holds a Feast where intends to launch his CAMPAIGN to overthrown the government.
He invite many including his all the tribe of Judah and his brother’s (David’s remaining son’s) with the
exception of Solomon.
He did not invite Zadok and Nathan or King David’s mighty faithful soldiers.
Meanwhile, Nathan seeing all that is occurring goes to Bethsheba. He tells her to let King David know and
that he needs to step in to stop this as to keep the promise of establishing Solomon as King. He is afraid
that Adonijah would kill her and Solomon.
David steps up and restores order as King. He declares that Solomon is his choice as successor.
Adonijah learns of this and recognizes that his attempt has failed. He now fears that he will
be targeted by Solomon for revenge because of his coup attempt. Solomon tells him that if he acts
responsibly and with honor he would be fine, but if he rebels he would be killed.
After David dies, Adonijah goes to Bethsheba. He wants her to ask King Solomon to give him Abishag for
a wife.
Solomon views this as a threat to his throne. To him, it violated the promise of honorable behavior. He saw
it as wicked. He has his brother Adonijah executed.

8. Solomon the deals with Joab and Shimei
Joab – the military leader formerly loyal to King David during the time of Saul and even during the
revolt of Absalom.
Yet, He for whatever reason, made the decision to side with Adonijah is his revolt against David and
the attempt to undercut Solomon.
Joab had BLOOD on his hands. Not regarding his battles in war but his execution of Amasa and less
so, Absalom.
Why did the above information lead to his execution early in the reign of Solomon?
Shimei – of the tribe of Levi, was loyal to King Saul. When David became King, he initially openly
rejected David. He later came onboard and allied/supported David. Despite this, King David did not
trust him. He told this to Solomon.
Solomon informs him at the start of his reign that he is not trusted but that he would let him live as
long as he stays confined to his home. Unfortunately, after 3 years of compliance he lives to Gath,
soon to return.
Solomon learns of his breaking of the deal and has him Executed

9. The Last Days of King Solomon
Sad ending to a productive and glorious reign. After much achievement and national stability, Solomon’s time
ended tragically. The Bible informs us that in his later/older years, He turned his heart towards the gods of his
pagan wives. He began to worship and love them and turned away from God. Because of this , God took the
kingdom away from him.
God keeps his word and promises. Because of this and his love for David, He would keep the House of David in
Jerusalem (Judah). This naturally leads to the DIVIDED kingdom. This is HIS Legacy!
Jeroboam – a non relative servant in the house of Solomon. He rose to a position of trust and rank. God sent the
Prophet Ahijah to inform him that the Kingdom would be taken from Solomon upon his death. He was told that
he would be given the northern ten tribes and Solomon’s blood line would be given one., the aforementioned
southern tribe of Judah. This would go to Solomon’s son Rehoboam.
Solomon would seek to kill Jeroboam until his own death. Jeroboam remained away in Egypt until Solomon’s
death.

10. Like Father, Like Son? Lessons NOT Learned
Apparently, Solomon had been mistreating and governing certain people within the kingdom.
Some of his led advisors attempted to guide the new King Rehoboam to consider handling the people
with gentleness, compassion and mercy. Jeroboam was also involved in the attempt to give godly advise to
Rehoboam.
Name the critical concept (take-away lesson to learn) in the advise they offered. We will follow these
themes throughout our study as key guidelines to good leadership.
Rehoboam rejected this advise and came down hard on the people. Describe the group that he rejected
and compare to the group that he followed. He doubled down HARSHLY.
Rehoboam sent in Adoram (his enforcer) to squash the uprising but they stone him. The people have
turned against the heavy handed king.
He then assembles the Southern tribes and plans to go against Jeroboam and the northern tribes. God
send in the Prophet Shemaiah to tell him NOT to do this thing. This time he listens.

11. DOWNFALL!
King Jeroboam (Northern 10 tribes)
He built places of worship in Shechem and Penuel.
He then concludes that this would return the hearts of the people back to Jerusalem and then back to the
house of David. He concludes that this would lead the people to return loyalty to King Rehoboam.
This has him to believe that he would then be targeted and killed.
Jeroboam has two golden calves created. He tells the people that there was NO need to go to Jerusalem. He
set up one in Bethel and another in Dan.
He credits the IDOLS for getting them out of Egyptian bondage.
He ordained the 15th day in the 8th Month – devised IN HIS OWN HEART! {God ordained the 7th mo}
This thing was a SIN for the Nation

12. God sends a Prophet from Judah up to Bethel with a message
He delivers the word of the Lord to King Jeroboam. It is essentially a prophecy and a curse.
He speaks directly to the Altar. He states that a future King will be born in the house of David.
This Josiah would offer on the Altar the bones of the priest that burned offerings on it. What is going on here? The
sign given to verify this was…. ’the altar will be rent and the ashes poured out’.
The King’s hand withered. The alter was rent and the ashes poured out. He says to the prophet, “entreat now the face
of the Lord ‘your’ God, and pray for me. The Prophet did, and the Kings’ hand was restored.
Jeroboam invites the prophet to come back for dinner but he declines in obedience to the word of God.
However, when an old prophet heard that he was there, he sent his son’s to invite him. When he was told that the
prophet declined, he lied and told him that GOD sent him a message telling him to have dinner.
The unnamed prophet believed him. God, seeing his disobedience, informed him that he would be punished. On the
way back to Judah, he is killed by a lion. As prophesied, his body would not be laid to rest with his forefathers. He
would be laid in the site of the tempting/lying prophet.
Jeroboam would continue on in his idolatry. He made priest of men not called to be priest.

13. King Jeroboam’s child became ill. He sends his wife to seek out a word from God from Ahijah.
He sends her in disguise so as NOT to be known. Why?
God informs Ahijah. When she arrives, he immediately calls her out.
His GOD given message is this. I exalted you to by King of My people. I gave it to you but you have NOT sought
be as my servant David. You have done worst than any before you. You have made idols and provoked me to
anger and cast me behind your back.
When your feet again hits your city, your child shall die. Israel shall mourn for the child.
The Lord shall punish Israel. He will uproot her and scatter her beyond the river.
He shall give them up BECAUSE of the SIN of Jeroboam who made Israel sin!
HIS LEADERSHIP as the Northern Kingdom set them up for inevitable failure.
A Nation SET – UP to FAIL (Northern Israel)

14. Judah’s Twinkle of HOPE in the midst of rebellious guidance. (Southern Kingdom)
King Rehoboam ruled the southern kingdom of Judah without the hand of God.
It is stated that he “did evil in the eyes of the Lord”. Greater than those who had come before him.
He built places of Idol worship wherever he could. But moreover, he allowed and/or began Temple
Sodomy. This may be the issue that made his actions ‘above all that his father’s’ in regards to sin.
2 Chronicles 2:11 Because of the outright spiritual adultery of Jeroboam in the north, faithful and
Committed Priest and Levites, fled Israel to Judah and Jerusalem.
This strengthened Judah for a space of 3 years. What long term effect do you see happen
Because of this? Specifically, Fake priest in the North and some TRUE godly priest in the South.
Israel and Judah warred between each other during the reigns of Jeroboam and Rehoboam
2 Chronicles 13 ** v4
** Abijam (Abijah) did have brief positive noteworthy stance

15. Rehoboam reigned selfishly. He put his own needs and desires above that of God and the people.
1 Kings 14:22
Because of his rebellion and guidance the people followed and the nation was out of the will of God.
We learn that the King of Egypt invades Judah. Is there any clue in the Kings passage to indicate who
authorized this action? Confirmation of this is found in 2 Chronicles 12.
All of the Gold and precious items that Solomon had in his house and in the Lord’s temple were taken.
Rehoboam replaces these things with items of brass and has them secured with the chief of Guards.
How do we explain and interpret this action?
It may be his means of Atonement.
Rehoboam dies and his son Abijam (Abijah) reigns after him. **
His time was short lived as he did evil and walked not after God or the ways of David.
He continue the warring with Israel. The importance of a REMNANT! **

16. REHOBOAM’S REIGN: BAD SPRINKLED WITH A
BIT OF GOOD
1 Kings 14:21 - 28
 At age 41 begin his reign
 Reigned in Judah for 17 years
 Built high places
 Judah did evil during this time
 Egypt raided and looted in the 5th yr.
 Rehoboam replaces stolen treasures
with brass
2 Chronicles 11:5-14; 12:1-12
 Fortified cities, strengthened himself
 Ignored God. The people followed.
 Good Priest and Levites from north
arrived. They strengthened Judah for 3
years.
 God sent the Egyptian raid
 Prophet Shemaiah's message
 Rehoboam is Humbled

17. God’s Will in the lives of Man
The debate has waged and will continue to be debated regarding God’s Will
Particularly – Where does God’s will and Man’s free will meet and end?
Does God’s will supplant man’s choice. Does it apply to an individual or man-kind as a unit
Let’s look at the cases in this study thus-far
Jeroboam (Israel) Rehoboam (Judah)
God’s hand of blessing was placed on God’s hand was removed from
Not God’s Special Location God’s Special HOLY Location
Does EVIL Does EVIL
Near Complete Rejection Rejection with a Remnant
Rebellious Jeroboam Killed by God Humbled Rehoboam allowed to die in office

18. War between North (Israel) and South (Judah)
God fights against (kills) Jeroboam God fights with Abijam/Abijah
Questions:
Does God favor Judah because it is his “Heart” a blessed HOLY land? Deut. 11:12
Does he favor it because Abijam is Righteous? Does he do it DESPITE his personal evil doings?
If God’s Hand was off Judah and he GUARANTEED blessing to Israel. Why did thing go the way that they
did?
You see both things are in play. God does have a will. His will is done!
Yet we also have Free Will.
God’s wisdom is such that he can accomplish his will WITHOUT forcing individuals. Obedience and action
on the part of some can and will counter the disobedience of others. Yet, God’s will and his INTEGRITY
stays intact. All of his promises are IF…THEN arrangements. He keeps HIS WORD!

19. A Good King comes forth! (South) 1Kings 15:9-24 2 Chronicles 14/15/16
After Abijam, his son Asa comes to power.
He reforms the nation and changes direction back towards the ways of God.
His Grandmother, Maachah *, was deeply pagan. She worshipped pagan gods and even her personal idol.
The righteous king Asa destroyed them all, including his mother’s
He also banished the practice of temple prostitution and kicked out the sodomites.
To this end, the bible says that he “did right in the eyes of the Lord”.
He brought into the house the Lord, precious items of Gold and vessels from his families wealth.
He failed however, to remove the high places throughout the land.
Note * She was also Abijam’s (grand)mother. Why is this noteworthy?

20. Asa has military victory when invaded by Ethiopians
Why was he successful against this invasion? 2 Chron. 14:11
A Word from the Prophet. What was his message? 2 Chron. 15:1-7 How did Asa respond?
After the reforms, peace followed.
When war broke out between Judah and Israel, what did Asa do?
What do you think about that decision?
How did it compare to the decision and choice he made when Ethiopia invaded?
Why do you suppose he acted different against Israel?
Key Verse: 2 Chronicles 16:9

21. How did God inform Asa of his wrong choice?
What was the results of his Self-Reliance?
Asa was angered. He did not like the message from the prophet and had him placed in prison.
Asa would then ‘Suppress’ some of the people.
In the 39th year of his reign, he becomes crippled.
He dies in the 41st year of his reign.
Lessons learned from the life of this GOOD king!
Let’s Discuss. God wants us to remember his past blessing/guidance.
God wants willing vessels to work through to show his power and to do his will.
We sinners, do both good and bad / obey and disobey, as we serve Him.
It is up to us how we respond to God’s correction.

22. Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone
to devour. 1 Peter 5:8
WHAT TO WATCH FOR – WARNING!
The Enemy is on the Prowl looking to entrap and destroy us!
What to KNOW about God! - Challenge
For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the
behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. 2 Chronicles 16:9
The Heavenly Father, Giver of Life, is actively looking to use those
Willing to be used. He wants to show his power through US!

23. Another GOOD KING in the South! 2 CHRONICLES 17
Jehoshaphat ruled after his father Asa
He did right in the eyes of the Lord
He walked after David and sought the Lord
He did not follow after idols and false gods
He built up the cities and strengthened the military
He sanctioned the priest to go out and begin teaching the people
The fear of the Lord came among the people. The land was blessed and other nations
Recognized this blessing and protection.

24. Meanwhile…. More Sin and Chaos up North! 1 Kings 16
After the reign and death of Jeroboam in Israel, legacy continues in his descendants
Nadab did evil and walked in the ways of Jeroboam his father. The people followed.
Baasha followed the same path. Continued the war against Asa. God sent a prophet to speak against him.
Informs him that his ”Posterity” would not last.
Elah, Baasha’s son, came next in line. Ruled 2 years. Again, Did evil. His chief military leader was Zimri.
Zimri rose up against him. Elah’s rule was short-lived. Why is this significant? How did God use Zimri to fulfill
prophecy?
Omri outlasted Tibni in the divided northern kingdom. His reign was 12 years and is described as evil,
greater than those that came before him.
NO REST – NO PEACE – WAR – UPHEAVEL – BETRAYAL – All the effects of rejecting GOD!

25. North and South Alliance: 2 Chronicles 18
Guided by Self-will/Prophets/Angels/Spirits
Jehoshaphat and Ahab come together to go against a common adversary
Jehoshaphat rightly suggest that GOD should be involved in their decision
Ahab agrees and they inquire counsel from a host of Prophets (400 men)
The Prophets give the “go ahead”. Jehoshaphat wants to ensure balance. He ask if any other
prophet was available. Ahab knows of a person ‘who he hates’ as he “always” prophesied against
him.
Micaiah does bring a message. “I will say what God said”. He then says , ’ I see all of Israel scattered
and without a LEADER”. Why did Ahab take offense?
The Prophet tells of his vision from heaven. The LORD is on his Throne. God ask the host of angelic
beings around him, “Who shall ENTICE king Ahab to go out against Ramothgilead? One volunteer
stand up. He would go out as a Lying spirit in the mouth of all the king’s prophets.

26. Results and Outcomes
Ahab has Micaiah placed in Custody
Jehoshaphat and Ahab proceed as planned. They invade the enemy.
However, Ahab goes in in disguise. He does not want to be recognized as the king. Why?
The King of Syria tells his men to seek out the King of Israel – Ahab.
They encounter Jehoshaphat king of Judah instead. What does he do? What was the results?
“At random, by chance”, (God’s sovereign rule) Ahab is hit in a space between the armor wounding him. He later
dies of this injury.
Lessons learned in these events. Prayer before decision making
Obtaining Godly counsel
Avoiding and recognizing bad advise
Using wisdom and heeding it when known. Be willing to change course
What do we make of the fact that God sent out a “Lying Spirit”? Is it a act of TEMPTING?
Was he manipulating Ahab? James 1:13

27. So, Who is to blame for the death of AHAB? Is it God’s or is it Ahab’s?
Here are the facts as presented.
Ahab came up with the idea of attacking Ramothgiliead
He had made an alliance with the King of Judah, who was righteous and blessed of God.
This may have given him a false sense of assumed victory. Bottom-line, It was IDEA.
It was not HIS idea to ‘enquire of the Lord” to see if he should invade. He did agree when prompted
He called on his “YES men” Prophets whom he knew would give him the OK.
He avoided calling the one prophet whom he knew told the truth.
When the truthful prophet gave what essentially and effectively was a WARNING to NOT DO THIS. He ignored
it and proceeded anyhow. What proof / clue do we have that even Ahab himself knew that he should not have
proceeded? He knew that GOD was ACTUALLY attempting to STOP him.
God, however, knew that he would NOT heed the message. God knew that this would be his death.

28. Conclusion
God’s will was done (punishing a evil and wicked king, who led the people further astray.
God used Ahab’s own pride and ignorance against him. For he trusted his yesmen (and I believe
falsely assumed protection and blessing from his alliance with godly Jehoshaphat.)
Ahab allowed his self-willed arrogance to blind him with ambition.
Prior to his pulling the trigger on actually going ahead with the plan, GOD sends a crystal clear
message explaining that it was a LYING SPIRIT from the THRONE OF GOD enticing him to go ahead.
This was his opportunity to CHANGE HIS PLAN.
Ahab COULD have avoided death on that day and in that matter if he would have HEEDED.
GOD’s Punishment - GOD’S Will – GOD’S – Guiding hand, Yet Ahab’s choice!

29. Ahab, Jezabel and Baal vs Elijah and GOD! 1 Kings 16 to 18
During Ahab’s reign he made allegiance with enemies of Israel
He married an evil woman who became his Queen.
He encouraged all to worship, trust and follow Baal. A false god, but one worshipped by the pagans.
The pagan credited Baal with their success – specifically, controlling weather and blessing the harvest.
Enter Elijah, God’s prophet. He confronts King Ahab and tells him that there would be no rain or dew for years until
the Lord God speaks it. God then tells Elijah to flee and hide. God would provide food and water. First by the
unexpected care of Ravens. This would be followed by an poor widow and her child.
During the drought, God keeps his promise and Elijah is cared for and protected. During the stay with the widow,
her son dies. Elijah’s heartfelt plea to the Lord for his grace. God resurrects the boy and the faithful woman knows
for a fact that Elijah was a true man of God.
After 3 years, God tells Elijah that it is now time to challenge Ahab.
He goes to find the king, but he first meets with another prophet – Obadiah.
He ask Obadiah to inform Ahab that Elijah wants to meet him but Obadiah is afraid to do so. He fears how Ahab
and Jezebel would react. He informs him that Jezebel had many prophets killed and how he himself, hid and cared
for 50 of them.

30. Elijah assures him that God was with him and that he would be faithful to show up as promised.
Elijah keeps his word and does meet with the evil king Ahab.
The king ask, ’are you the one that brought trouble to the land’. Elijah puts the blame right on the King. He
tells the king that it was his fault for leading the people into worship of the false god Baal.
He then tells him to gather up all of the prophets of Baal to the site at Mt Carmel. When they and all the
people of Israel come, Elijah tells them that now was it time for them choose. Who will you follow, The Living
and true God of their fathers or the false idol god, Baal.
The Challenge – both he and the prophets of Baal would be given a bull to sacrifice and pit with wood.
Neither would have fire. Elijah would call on the one true living God and the prophets of Baal would call out
to him. The God that start the fire to cook the offering would be recognized as the true God. Who will win?
Who were the people betting on? Who will the people chose to follow?

31. The Prophets of Baal go first. Despite all of their efforts they get NO RESPONSE for their god.
They beg, wale, beat and cut themselves to no avail. The more they do so, the more Elijah mocks them.
After their failed attempt. It is Elijah’s turn.
He prepares the offering using 12 stones to represent the tribes of Israel. He built it in the name of God.
He instructed them to dig a trench around it. He then had it and the wood saturated with water x 3.
He offers prayer to God. He acknowledges the forefathers. He asked that the people’s eyes would be opened to see
that he is the ONE and Only God. That they would then repeat and turn to Him.
God ignites the fire and everything is burnt up, even the water in the trench! The people’s eyes are opened and they
do repent. Elijah then executed the false prophets of Baal.
As promised, God brings the Rain, ending the drought. Ahab is humbled and returned to his home where evil
Jezebel awaits

32. Jezebel learns about the events involving Elijah and sends him a message
Upon hearing her threat, Elijah is filled with fear and flees. At a certain point, he has his assistant stay behind. Where
do they go?
Why does he state, “Take my life, for I am no better than my fathers”?
God once again sustains him miraculously. He then travels 40 days and nights until he was at Mount Horeb.
God then asked him, ”What are you doing here?”. Elijah pleads his case. He voices that he has been a strong and
zealous prophet to the people but they have rejected and killed your prophets and now seek to kill me. “I am the
only one left”.

33. Where is GOD?
God instructs Elijah to go out of the cave and onto the mountain. He tells him that HE, God would pass by.
Then, a mighty destructive wind goes by.
Next, a powerful Earthquake. Soon, followed by a Fire. In each we are told, “but GOD was NOT in the ___!
Then after all of these fear invocative demonstrations, GOD arrives in a STILL SMALL VOICE. Elijah recognized his
voice. He covered his face and went out to the mouth of the cave. Again, God asked, What are you doing here? He
again bemoans that he has faithfully served God, yet the people reject and the he is the only one left faithful.
He tells Elijah to return. He was to anoint Hazael king of Aram and Jehu king of Judah. He was also to find Elisha, and
place him as the new prophet of Israel. Jehu would put to death any that escaped Hazael and Elisha would put to
death any that escaped Jehu. 1Kings 19:15-17
He informed Elijah that he in fact, was NOT the only faithful servant. That there were reserved 7000 in Israel, who had
not bowed a knee to Baal and mouth had not kissed him!

34. Lessons to learn…
God wanted Elijah to know that he was NOT in the loud destructive and threatening things.
Therefore, he should not have feared. Jezebel was that loud threat, and likewise should not have been feared.
God was in the still small voice. Elijah, lost focus. He failed to listen, hear from, and wait for God to instruct him.
He just ran.
I believe that Elijah knew this soon after fleeing. This may be why he was DEPRESSED. Not for being pursued by
Jezebel, but over the guilt and shame in knowing that he should not have fled.
God is patient and kind to his servant. Despite Elijah’s short coming, God has a new assigment.
He has more things for him to accomplish.

35. Covetousness, Greed, and Political Corruption
Naboth is the owner of valuable land. King Ahab had his eye on it and wanted to get it.
Naboth declined Ahab’s offer to buy it. Naboth honored his inheritance above financial gain.
He would not cave to political pressure. Ahab went home defeated. He whined to his wife.
Jezebel took control. Paraphrase – ‘You are king – take what you want”. She crafted a letter and sent it to local
elites and political leaders. The plan was to bring Naboth to a meeting. She had them place 2 false witnesses to
lie about him. He is falsely accused and falsely convicted and stoned to death.
God sends Elijah back to confront Ahab about this devious acts.
It is prophesized that he would die at the same spot as Naboth was stoned. It was also stated that his family line
would end and that Jezebel would die by the wall in Jezreel. Her body would be eaten by wild dogs.
Upon hearing, Ahab is humbled and has a repented heart. God acknowledges this heart felt act.

36. Lessons learned in these events
Ahab was NO leader! Despite being king. He allowed Jezebel to take the lead.
He married the daughter of a foreign kingdom and took on her idol worship. He promoted Baal worship
Ahab and Jezebel broke many of the 10 commandments of God.
# 1 # 2 # 4 # 6 # 8 # 9 #10 All of these were broken in just the 3 chapters
Jezebel was 100% pagan. She was pure evil and motivated by power, gain, and operated with violence.
The people of Israel willingly followed. They are not innocent victims. They pay the price for following bad leaders.
Despite what could be seen as Elijah’s prior ’failure’, God did not hesitate to go to Elijah as his servant.
Elijah did not fear confronting Ahab.
God shows his mercy by giving Ahab credit for showing true repentance.

37. LIFE UP NORTH AFTER AHAB
2 Kings Chapter One
 The Northern Kigdom of Israel
 God deals with Ahab’s descendant
 King Ahaziah’s rebellion through the
Prophet Elijah
2 Chronicles Chapter 20
 The Southern Kingdom of Judah
 Follow the End of the Reign of Good
King Jehosaphat

38. Up North…. After Ahab’s Death 2 Kings Chapter 1
He son, Ahaziah follows in the footsteps of Ahab and after the ways of Jeroboam.
As things would go, He is injured and is fearing death.
He call for a word from a false god to give insight. He deploys staff to seek out this advise.
Knowing this, God has Elijah intercede the messenger. He tells him to go back to the king with a question
“Why are asking for help from a false idol, why not ask the God of Israel? Don’t I exist?” Paraphrase
Ahaziah does not like this. He sends him back and God destroys the leader and his 50 men.
Ahaziah sends a second set of 50 with another leader and the same thing happens.
Ahaziah is not phased. He sends a 3rd group. But this leader tells Elijah, ’I don’t want to end up like the other
messengers. So, God tells Elijah to return to Ahaziah with the group and deliver the messege directly to the King.

39. Upon delivering the message, he proclaims that he will truly die.
The king dies as stated.
What are we to learn from this story as it is told and how it is laid out in this manner?
What was the purpose of having group 1 and 2 to go back to the king with the Question?
Was it a ‘Crossroad’ event?
What does Crossroad events show us about God?
Is it significant that the first 2 groups were destroyed? If so, why and what to learn from it?
Why was the 3rd group not destroyed?
What evidence do we have to suggest Ahaziah was NOT going to repent?
Lastly, in terms of Legacy. Who does all of this rebellion in the north trace back to?

40. Down South Good King Jehosaphat comes to an end – Good, not Perfect! 2
Chronicles 20
Recall in chapter 18, King Jehosaphat agreed to help evil Ahab up north to fight their common
enemy.
He used good judgment in seeking out godly consult (remember the lying spirit from God)? It all
worked out as God would have it and ultimately Ahab came to his death.
However, in the telling of the story we did not know if it was God’s will for Jehosphat to help at all.
Well, we find that out in chapter 19.
The Prophet Jehu informs the good King by asking, “Should thou help the ungodly, and love them
that hate the Lord?” This showed God’s displeasure.
God promised his wrath. In this chapter, the Ammonites and Moabites come to invade

41. Word arrives that an invasion is pending. King Jehosaphat calls for a national fast.
Jehosaphat then offers up to God prayer and guidance. He was humbled.
He acknowledged God for who he is and for what he has done.
He asked that God would intervene on their behalf in dealing with the ongoing threat.
Jahaziel the Prophet offered comfort. You and the people need not worry. God’s got this!
The various factions of the invading armies will proceed to fight and kill each other!!
The children of Judah took plunder for 3 days and on the 4th day worshipped the Lord.
He walked in the ways of his father Asa and reigned for 25 years. He did good in the eyes of the Lord.
Yet, the high places were not taken down and he agreed to fight along side Ahab , which was NOT in the
will of the Lord. Here we learn why the high places were not removed. Why?
God did punish him. He had a ship building venture that was joined into with Ahab. God destroyed the
fleet of ships at sea as means of his wrath.

42. TWO KINGS, TWO DIFFERENT PATHS
AND OUTCOMES
Ahaziah (Northern) from Ahab
 Did Evil
 Rebelled against God
 Served Idols
 Elijah the prophet spoke against
 This king would not repeat and would
not call on God when he had the
opportunity to do so.
 Failed Leader
Jehosaphat (Southern)
 Did Good
 Respected and obeyed God
 Served God
 Jehu the prophet rebuked him
 Jahaziel the prophet guided him
 This king called upon God when in
trouble
 Successful Leader

43. All GOOD things come to an end, Judah goes astray in the south (2 Chron
21)
After the death of Good King Jehosaphat, he is succeeded by his son Jehoram.
Jehosaphat had 6 other sons. The king left each of them much wealth.
Jehoram was given the kingdom, but would have them executed. Why do you think he did this?
Instead of modeling his life after his father, he chose to follow the ways of AHAB.
One likely reason was the influence of his wife, Ahab’s daughter.
Despite his evil leadership, God would NOT abandon Judah – being faithful to his word of promise to king
David.

44. Southern Kingdom begins to CRUMBLE
Apparently, two separate non Israelite people groups were living under the reign of Judah
The two were the people of EDOM and of LIBNAH.
However, because of the new King Jehoram and his actions they both revolt.
Jehoram without explaination rose up against Edom and slayed a host of them. This began their revolt.
This was likely enough to see to provoke Libnah to also decide to part ways with Judah.
Elijah writes a letter to the evil king. In it he points out that he had departed from the ways of
Jehosphat, his grandfather Asa and king David. Instead deciding to walk evil in the way of Ahab and
Jeroboam and the children of Israel up north.
He accused them of going WHORING AFTER. Again this is Spiritual adultery to God. He calls him out
for killing his brothers.
Because of these things – God tells him that he would be stricken with a very specific illness.

45. Why do you think God would be so specific in telling him how he would die and what he would
die from?
He would also suffer foreign invasion.
His kingdom would suffer financial and material loss.
His family would also be destroyed except for one son, Jehoahaz
He suffered two years and then died. He reigned 8 years.
He was not honored by the people.
He was buried in Jerusalem but not in the sepulcres with his Fathers.
He is succeeded by, his son and then his mother. Both did EVIL before God.
As God had promised, he sent his servant Jehu to punish. * 1 Kings 19:16

46. Ahaziah : Next in line Down South 2 Chronicles 22
The people made Jehoram’s only surviving son, Ahaziah the next king of Judah.
He followed after the ways of his now dead father and still alive mother Athaliah.
Athaliah followed after Ahab in the north along with many wicked counselors
Ahaziah was 42 y/o when he was installed. He was influenced and guided by the above.
He joined forces with Ahab’s son, Jehoram, to battle a common enemy.
This was unfortunate. For this was the anointed time of God to deal with Ahab’s descendants.
Recall how God told Elijah to crown the king of Syria and to anoint Jehu. Jehu would be used to destroy
the house of Ahab. Well, Jehoram would be injured and would die.
By joining forces and aligning with him, Ahaziah would be executed himself.
This did NOT need to occur, but did occur because of his poor choices.

47. Another EVIL women – Athaliah: Power over Family
After the death of her son, Athaliah sets about to kill her own son’s children and any male heir to the
throne. In her mind, she wanted the throne and actively eliminated all potential threats.
Jehoshabeath, the daughter of the deceased king hid her brother Joash.
Apparently, Athaliah did not know about him. So, she take reigns of the kingdom and had a briet stint in
power. Joash remained safe and in hidding until the treat of Athaliah was gone.
He was hid within the House of God for six years. This is interesting for 3 reasons. Hint. 1) Faith 2) Behavior
of the unholy 3) Crossroads
During these 6 years, Jehoiada the priest along with other faithful Priest and Levites were strengthened.
Then went throughout Judah and found the faithful. These would be mobilized to take back the kingdom
and place it back in line with king David and with the Will of God.
With the military and much of the people behind them, they made their move. Evil Queen Athaliah hear
the uproar and considered it “treason”. She would be killed. Jaash would be rightfully placed in office and
anointed king in Judah.

48. The Good Priest Jehoiada – Takes the Lead. 2 Chron. 23
After organizing and orchestrating the take-over and putting the right king in David’s seat, He made
commitments, more strongly covenants with the people, the king, and with God.
First on the to-do list – Destroy the presence of Baal.
He restored the offices and function of the house of Judah as set up by David.
He restored burnt offerings. The Law of Moses. Worship. Law and Order.
He placed the king back on the Throne of David.
Results – The People Rejoiced.
Questions. Why did the people not step up before? Why did they follow the ways of Jehoram in the first
place? What does this say about us as humans?

49. God keeps his promise – Ahab’s line is CUT OFF and Jehu is the new King up North!
2 Kings Chapters 9 and 10
Just as Elijah was told, Elisha is now the Prophet. He anoints Jehu as new king.
Jehu is now the King in Israel
As prophesied, He would be the one to put an end to the evil rule of Ahab and Jezebel.
The current king Joram is engaged in battle with Syria. He was injured and returned to Jezreel to heal.
Joram sees his approach and sends messenger to see if he came in peace.
Joram, king of Israel and Ahaziah, king of Judah gather to meet Jehu on the battlefield.
Jehu informed them that they did no deserve PEACE because of their sins and the acts of Ahab and Jezebel. They
Jehu would die in the field that was stolen from Naboth.
Ahaziah would attempt escape – but would fail. He too would die at Jehu’s hand.
Queen Jezebel would be next.

50. Ahab family Round-Up!
After the two Kings and Queen Jezebel are disposed of, Jehu turns his attention to wiping out all of the
descendants of Ahab.
So, Jehu sent letters out to the leaders in Jezreel. He told them to locate the 70 remaining male descendants
of Ahab and to choose the best of the lot. They were to then place that son on Ahab’s throne to crown as
their king. They would then challenge Jehu in battle to see which team would win control of the northern
kingdom of Israel. But the leaders were afraid for they could not get volunteers from Ahab’s family.
So, he gives a new challenge. Since they won’t fight me. You prove that you are on my side.
Go and hunt down all of them, kill them and bring me their heads.
They complied. All gathered at the gate of the city where the piles of heads were laid.
Jehu announced that he was doing God’s will and then proceeded to eliminate the remaining followers of
Ahab.

51. Jehu destroys the remnant of Baal
Jehu then gathers all the priest of Baal. How did he get them to come into his presence?
Was he a Baal worshipper? Did his plan work?
He was very selective. He made sure that NO non followers of Baal would come.
Once all gathered for their solemn day of worship and sacrifice to Baal, Jehu had 80 soldiers gathered on
the outskirts.
This was a trap. While the Baal worshippers were engaged in the religious ceremony, Jehu instructed the
men to enter in to kill them. He threated the lives of the executioners if they let any escape.
He then destroyed all of the idols and alters of Baal.
Unfortunately, Jehu did not FAITHFULLY serve God from his heart.
He would go on to resume the Idolatry of Jeroboam.

52. Joash: The ‘Leader’ who needed a Leader
2 Chronicles 24
During the life and under the guidance of Jehoiada the Priest, King Joash did good.
He was a boy when he began, He reigned for 40 years.
Jehoiada not only took down all the Baal, He restored worship to God.
Joash was moved to restore the house of God. He even questioned Jehoiada as to why the
Levites have not yet responded.
Through his efforts money was raised to restored and rebuild the things of God and the people
rejoiced. They restored burnt offerings unto the Lord.
Unfortunately, Jehoiada passed. After this, other influencers surrounded Joash.
They brought up the idea of returning to idol worship. He FOLLOWED their advise.
Prophets of God are sent to correct them but they rejected.

53. They stoned Jehoiada’s son – Zechariah. King Joash approved the execution.
The Lord God of Heaven holds him accountable.
God sends his wrath via the people of Syria and King Hazael. He uses them to attack Judah
The princes of Judah were killed. King Joash was left to die but was killed by his own servants.
So Joash is given a MIXED grade report card. NOT all BAD / Not all GOOD.
He did some good on his own initiative but seemed to lean on the guidance of others.
He was highly influenced. More of a follower than TRUE Leader!
Yet, accountable as he clearly made his own decisions.
Why is King Hazael important? You should remember him!

54. Elijah passes baton to Elisha
Just as God had ordered. Elijah ordained his replacement
Many at Bethel seemed to know that something was going to happen but not quite sure of the details
The same thing occurs at Jericho.
Fifty son’s of Prophet’s met Elijah and Elisha at the Jordan.
After they get to the Jordan River. Elijah demonstrated the power of God. He ask the young Elisha
if he could do anything for him. Elisha request if for a double portion of his gift.
The sign of if this would be given would be if God allowed him to see his departure.
They would soon be separated by a heavenly host of fiery horse and chariot. Elijah would be taken to
Heaven and Elisha would see the whole event.
What clues do we get showing that Elisha did indeed inherit the double portion he requested?

55. Mockery punished
Some youth disrespect Elisha.
What did they mean? “Go up, Bald head, Go up”
Were they picking on him for the physical look only?
Was it because he was perceived as UNCLEAN?
Was it because of his position as a servant of God , and therefore a rejection of GOD?
He then places a curse on them
We learn that 2 Bears come out and over 40 of them suffer physical injury.
What lesson was intended to be made and learned by them?
Is there a lesson for us in this event?
Is there a modern equal in how we are to respond or has this been changed?
Heb. 10:30 Matt. 5:39 Rom 12 1 Tim. 6 and 2 Pet. 3

56. Elisha’s Ministry: 2 Kings 4
Social service intervention
One of the wives of the Prophet’s presents to Elisha and informs him that her husband has died.
Making matters worst is that he left behind a significant amount of debt. The debt collectors are now coming
to her for payment.
Utilizing the wisdom of Solomon and power of Elijah, Elisha asked her what did she have in her household
(of value). She states that she has one jar of oil. He has her go to all of the local households to collect every
possible spare Jar. Her son helps to gather and place in the her house.
Elisha then fills every container from the one container that she had. (sound familiar?)
What else does this sound similar to? HINT Think new testament.
Once they are all filled, he instructs her to go and sale the newly produced oil to the public and use the
profit to pay off the creditors.

57. Hospitality rewarded by Gratitude
Elisha is now introduced to couple. The wife is described as a Shunammite.
She has a great heart for service and hospitality. She and her husband provide meals and housing for Elisha
and his servant every time he is in the area.
Elisha wants to show his appreciation. He has his servant call for her to ask what she may need.
She has no request. However, the servant observes that her husband is old and that she was childless. Elisha
calls for her and when she arrives he tells her that she will be a mother by next year. “Don’t lie to thy
servant”, she replies. What do you make of this action and her response?
As prophesied, the woman does indeed give birth to a child.
As fate would have it, one day the child becomes ill and dies.
The woman takes immediate action. She places him on the bed where Elisha slept. She then goes to her
husband and tells him to send for the Prophet Elisha. He does not act. Why?

58. The Woman mounts a donkey with her servant and tells him to go straight way to the Prophet and not
to slow down unless she says so. What does her actions show about her?
Elisha sees her from afar and tells his servant to go find out if there was a problem with the husband or
the child. She tells the servant that there is not a problem
When she gets to Elisha, she falls to his feet and is distressed. She says, “I told you not to deceive me”.
Elisha learns that the child has died. He instructs the servant to return to him and to place the prophets
staff on the child’s face. The woman is not satisfied if Elisha does not come along. The initial attempts
to bring to child to life fails.
Elisha then goes to the boy and lays on him. He is brought back to life! Sound familiar??

59. Famine and Bad stew, made anew!
Back at Gilgal, there is a famine in the land.
Some of the son’s of Prophets needing food, go and gather vegetation to add to stew.
When they eat it, they soon realize that what was put in it was not edible and likely poison.
Elisha tells them to add flour to it and when they did – they were able to eat.
Then a traveling man came with 20 barley loaves. Elisha tells them to distribute this among the people. The
men ask in disbelief, that is NOT enough to feed a hundred in need.
Elisha says to do it as this is what the Lord instructs. He says that there will be plenty of leftovers
Sound Familiar?

60. Tests of FAITH!
A courageous and honored military leader in Syria has Leprosy. His name was Naaman.
His loved ones would love for him to be healed. There is a young Israelite maiden who suggest that he
would be healed by a prophet of the Lord.
The King of Syria likes the idea and arranges for a message and payment be delivered to the King of Israel
to request help in this matter. Strongly suggest this to be Jehoram. Jehu is not anointed King until chapter
9.
The King of Israel’s response was of suspicion. He thought it was a plot to start a war between the nations.
What was his reason to think this way? This showed his spiritual state!
Elisha hears of the Kings response and goes to him with a plan of faith. He tells them to have Naaman
come. He would demonstrate that Lord of Israel is the God of all.
When Naaman arrives, Elisha tells his servants to instruct Naaman to go the Jordan river and to
dip/submerge in the river seven times.
Naaman is OFFENDED!

61. In his mind this request and the procedure of bathing in the Jordan was fruitless.
He had in HIS mind how Elisha should heal him. His EXPECTATIONS.
He reasoned that there were better water sources in his homeland. Why in the dirty Jordan?
This made Naaman very angry. He stormed off to head back home to Syria.
Yet, His own servants reasoned differently. They say to him, ‘If the Prophet would gave you a complicated list
of things to do to get healed, you would have done it. Why not do the simple task?” **
He relents. He goes and does it ELISHA’S way. Guess what?! It works!!!
Naaman is healed. It is said that his skin becomes as a young child’s.

62. Gratitude and Deception
Naaman is so pleased that he wants to go beyond what his King had give to their King.
He offered direct gifts and payment to Elisha in thanks for his miraculous healing.
He does acknowledge that Elisha’s God is like none-other.
Elisha declines the gifts. Naaman then ask if he could load as much dirt/soil as two mules could carry. He
stated that he would not worship the gods of his land. Elisha says “go in peace”.
Naaman leaves but Gehazi follows after him. He tells Naanam that things have changed. He says that
Elisha does now want his payment. He tells him that two sons of the prophets were in need.
Naaman agrees to the payment. Gehazi returns to Elisha and is asked, “where have you been?”
Gehazi says that he has not gone anywhere. Elisha knows that this is not true. How?
What was the consequence of Gehazi’s lies and actions?

63. LESSONS LEARNED from NAAMAN AND GEHAZI
The young maiden knew that the God of Israel and his prophet could heal Naaman
King Jeroboam showed that he was faithless and estranged from God. Syrian King had more faith.
The Syrian’s did not have the STIGMA against Lepers as was in Israel. Why?
Is this Good or Bad?
Naaman was not a man of faith but did learn about faith and of the power of God.
He thought he needed to do things his way. But did he TRULY learn the lesson??
**How does this relate to the GOSPEL and RELIGION?
Does he get healed on the inside, as he did on the outside?
How do we explain Gehazi’s fall from Grace?
He had been a dutiful and faithful servant.
Was this a brief lapse in judgment or evidence of his character?
Did the curse of Leprosy bring him back to God, or push him further away?
Could the Jordan river miracle be symbolic of the NEW TESTAMENT practice of Water Baptism?

64. More Elisha Miracles and Encounters- 2 Kings 6 and 7
The son’s of the Prophet’s ran out of living space. The request was to add more by building.
One of them lost the head of a IRON AXE when it fell off and into the Jordan.
It as borrowed and the man was concerned that he lost it and it would need to be replaced
Elisha has a stick that he threw in the water and this action causes the IRON AXE head to float to the
surface to be easily retrieved.
Elisha is aware of the plans of the King of Aram to invade Israel. He informs the king of this plot.
The king of Aram is certain that he has a trader giving away his secret plans to the enemy.
One of his servants tells him that it is because Elisha, Prophet of the God of Israel can know and tell of
the things that you speak while you are in your bedroom.
The Aramean king wants the head of Elisha. He sends a host to get him in Dothan.

65. When he is found there, it appears that the Prophet is outnumbered and doomed.
His servant is fearful but Elisha assures him that all is well and not to fear. He then prays,
“Lord – open his eyes that he may see”.
God allows the servant to see a vast host of angelic power in their presence.
Elisha prays that the army would be blinded. He then leads them to the King of Israel. The
king is not sure what to do with them and ask Elisha if it was ok to kill them. He says not to.
He tells them to feed them and return them to their king. They do not invade them again.
Questions: Why is God by way of Elisha giving warning to Jehoram?
What does this say about God?
In this story and the one with Naaman, who showed true LEADERSHIP, the
prophet or the king? Explain

66. After passage of time, the region is experiencing a significant famine.
While traveling, King Jehoram encounters a woman who begs and pleads for help.
His response…. Both leaderless and faithless.
He does however, asked her what her specific issue of concern is.
Her response is shocking!! In the midst of the inflationary times, she makes a deal with another woman.
They agree to cannibalizing their children. In an horrific exchange one child to be offered on one day and
the other the next.
Apparently, this woman followed through and killed her own son for a meal but on the next day the other
woman did not follow through.
Hearing this the king is deeply troubled and moved to tear his clothes. He then in a real sense, puts
bounty out on Elisha. He wants the prophet’s head. Why is he blaming Elisha for the state of things in
Israel?
Elisha is again provided with supernatural revelation (information from God). He knows that they coming
to kill him.

67. What does he mean when he says, “Calamity is from the lord, why should I wait for the Lord any
longer?
What does this say about him?
Elisha then tells the officer of the kings court that the economy will recover, yet they would not be
able to experience the turn-around. Why?
A group of hopeless Lepers decide to take desperate action. You can say that it was a suicide mission
like it would be in a death by cop act.
Yet, a miracle occurred. Before they arrived at the enemies gates, the enemy had abandoned their
place fully stocked.
They begin to indulge and keep all of the materials for themselves but good conscience keeps them
right before God. They decide to inform King Jehoram of the good fortune.
Again, Jehoram believes this is a trap.

68. His men intervene and with logic convinces the king to allow a small team to go and check things out.
They reason that things are desperate and that all if Israel is doomed otherwise.
Upon doing so, the scout team confirmed that the Arameans had indeed fled and left quickly without
care.
The king allows the people to go into the Aramean camp. Just as Elisha predicted, the king’s officer who
he spoke to would not benefit from the new economy. He is trampled to death by the people.

69. Lessons Learned in Chapters 6 and 7
God cares about the small and seemingly unimportant things in the lives of his people.
If important to you, it just may be important to God. He cares and is mindful.
Miracles are used to show his power and to get us to acknowledge him and to come to him.
No miracle is done just to do. It is a means to bring one to truth and to trust.
Elisha wanted his servant to know that God had their back when he prayed that they were not out
numbered. He allowed him to see that surrounding chariots of fire backing them up.
God showed mercy to the Aramean’s. He treated them with hospitality and allowed them to return home
unharmed. How, does this compared times of Israel’s outright rebellion?
What does the story of the women say about the state of the spiritual life of the Israelite
People at this point?

70. End of Elisha’s Ministry 2 Kings 13
During this time, Jehu’s son, Jehoahaz ruled in the north and Joash’s son Amaziah ruled in the south.
Jehoahaz did evil in the sight of God. He followed Jeroboam, not his father Jehu.
He made the people sin and the anger of the Lord was kindled against them.
Once again, God used foreign enemies as his tool to punish. Syrian kings Hazael and his son Benhadad
At some point Jehoahaz sought out the Lord and the Lord heard him and intervened. Yet, he and the people failed
to repent and continued idol worship. His army was depleted and he died.
His son, Jehoash ruled after him. He did evil. In the south, a good king Jehoash ruled.
Elisha was ill and dying. Jehoash of Israel went to him. Elisha assisted him with the battle against Aram.
However, Elisha used a bow and arrows to determine his success. He only provided partial victory. Why?
Elisha dies and is buried. What happens when a man is thrown in his tomb?
Hazael harrassed Jehoahaz thoughout, but God’s grace gave Joash some victory ? Why

71. Joash turns to the DARK SIDE; 2 Kings 12 and 2 Chronicles 24
Joash in Judah did well most of his reign. However, in the end he allowed his Flesh to rule him.
It can be partially blamed on the death of his mentor, Priest Jehoiada. Why only Partial blame?
After the priest died, many princes of Judah came to the King. How did they influence him?
What did he do to Jehoida’s son Zachariah?
How can we explain the arrival of King Hazael of Syria to attack Judah under King Joash?
How did King Joash attempt to get out of trouble?
How did King Joash die?

72. Fighting between Brothers 2 Kings 14/ 2 Chron 25
While things were not great in Israel, Judah has had more positive outcomes
After a fairly good king in Joash, his son Amaziah ruled. He also started out good
He ruled 29 years. Yet, he failed to take down the high places and the people continued idolatry
He killed those who killed his father but not the son’s, he followed Moses law. He had victory over the
Edomites.
Amaziah attempted to work with Johoash in Israel but the northern king did not trust him. He accused him of
“Pride” He led an attack on his kinship in Judah. He captured Amaziah and took wealth from the house of the
Lord.
Explain how God use both?
During Jeroboam II, the prophet Jonah was active in the north

73. Final Straw : The END of Israel 2 Kings 15 and 17
During the Good reign of King Uzziah (Azariah) the northern kingdom went through many evil kings.
Zachariah followed Jeroboam II. He is the last of the Son’s of King Jehu as prophesied as punishment for
Jehu’s killing of King Ahaziah without God’s order.
He did evil. His rule was short lived. Only 6 months. He was assassinated by Shallum.
Shallum did evil. He ruled even shorter. Was killed in one month by Menahem.
Menahem did evil. Followed the ways of the first King Jeroboam. Waged war campaigns. Order that pregnant
Women’s babies from the wombs. He paid tribute (Gang/Mob extortion money) to Pul, King of Assyria. He
lasted 10 years.
Pekahiah his son followed him. He lasted just 2 years. Of course, he did evil in the sight of the Lord. He was
overthrown by his captain Pekah.
King Pekah reigned 20 years. Did evil and followed the ways of Jeroboam. It is during his rule that the
kingdom began to truly fall. The Assyrian King started taken people from various cities and taking them to
Assyria.

74. 2 Kings 17
Hosea conspired against Pekah. Why?
He assassinates him and becomes the last king.
Of Course, He did evil in the sight of the Lord. He ruled 9 years.
Shalmaneser was King of Assyria. He concluded that Hosea was not paying the tribute. It also appears that he
was attempting to get the Egyptians to back him to defend against Assyria.
Because of this, Assyria put an end to the idea of taking tribute. They went all in and conquered the northern
kingdom of Israel. In the 9 th year of Hosea’s reign, he is placed in prison by the Assyrians and a 3 year
campaign to clear out all of Israel took place. All the people were taken to the Assyrian cites of Halah, Habor,
and the cities of Medes.
Ultimately, why did Israel Fall? Who controlled the hands of the Assyria’s?
Could this have been avoided?
Why was it Not Avoided?

75. God’s Final Thoughts on Israel
Verses 7 through to the end is the summation as to the history and reason for their end.
INDICTMENT : Israel – “you have disobeyed me”
Summary Statement
• All of this happened because of “YOU”
• You have sinned against the Lord who brought you out of Egypt
• You worshipped other gods. Followed the nations that I told you to drive out.
• You followed the practices of your King
• You build high places to worship false gods and idols
• You specifically ignored my direct command, “You shall not do this thing” regarding serving idols. You
provoked me to anger!
• I warned you throughout by way of my prophets. You did NOT LISTEN!!
• You rejected the statues and the covenant.
• You abandoned my Commandments and made 2 calf idols to worship, bowed
• to Baal, and sacrificed children in the fire and practiced
• Therefore, God removed Israel from their promised land.
• He delivered them into the hands of the spoilers and out of HIS SIGHT!

76. • You have not followed in the ways of David your Father.
• You followed after the ways of Jeroboam who caused all of Israel to sin. You choose to continue in his
ways.
• VERDICT : ISRAEL – GUILTY AS CHARGED!
• JUDGEMENT: Expulsion from THE PROMISED LAND.
• God sends the Assyrians to take them into Captivity.

77. Judah remains strong – For Awhile…
2 Chronicles 26
After Amaziah, Uzziah becomes the next King.
He does what was right in the sight of the Lord.
Military Victories of the Philistines and others. He strengthened his military.
He fortified the walls of Jerusalem.
Unfortunately, Pride was found in his heart.
He performed roles of the Priest. He is not a Priest. This did not please God!
The Priest attempted to correct him, yet he was too proud.
Being a successful King, He believed that he is above scrutiny and correction.
God punished him with Leprosy.

78. Jotham follows Uzziah. 2 Kings 15
He did what was right in God’s Eyes.
He did not follow Uzziah in doing priestly duties. (the RIGHT thing – Uzziah was wrong to do so)
He fought foreign enemies and build up the cities and high gates of the house of God.
The Ammonites would pay him tribute. Jotham was blessed from God because of his walk.
Yet, the people continued to do corruptly.
What does this say about ‘Leadership’?

79. NEXT UP… AHAZ! : Followed after Israel.
2 Chronicles 28/2 Kings 16
After having 2 Good Kings back to back, Enter Ahaz
He abandons them and follows after the ways of the North
Pekah would have been King of Israel at the start of his rule.
It was under Pekah that the Assyrians began to take cities.
Ahaz began Baal worship. He sacrificed his son’s to fire.
So God sent the King of Aram to punish Judah. God also allowed the wicked King in Israel
to come to punish. However, Israel went too far? God sent the Prophet Oded to correct
Israel. Under pressure from civic leaders and from God, the people of Israel acted wisely,
and returned those hostages of Judah.

80. After returning the captives of Judah, King Ahaz had not yet learned his lesson
He makes the political decision to contact the King of Assyria, Why is this odd?
He is under attack for the Philistines and the Edomites.
Verse 19 makes it clear the God is the author of the attack. Yet, He attempt to make a deal with the
Assyrians to “strengthen” Judah.
This backfires!!
Despite given the Assyrians money from the House of the Lord and much wealth, the Assyrian King did
NOT strengthen Judah as he hoped. The Assyrians afflicted them greater than before.
Discuss Ahaz’s decision and the outcome noted above.
This however and unfortunately, made him even MORE disobedient.
FAULTY REASONING FOLLOWS - ’Since the Edomites defeated us, their gods must be worthy of our
worship. He closed down God’s house and went ALL-IN on Idolatry. v24

81. Good and Faithful King Hezekiah 2 Chron. 29 to 32 and 2 Kings 18 to 20
During the time of King Hezekiah in the south, the last king Hosea falls to the Assyrian’s up north.
King Hezekiah walked according to the ways of David.
He did what was right in the Lord’s eyes. He took down the Idols and honored and follow the
commandments of God.
He took time to re establish the proper sanctification of the Levites and Priest. Then cleansed the House of
the Lord and brought back proper worship.
This is another example of Serving GOD the WAY He wants to be served. There is a fine line.
Intent of the Heart has to be balanced with honoring and respecting purpose. The trap in the middle of the
two is Legalism. Let’s Explore.
Hezekiah set things Right! He even reached out to his brothers in Israel to repeat. Some did, Most did not!

82. Hezekiah takes action under attack from the Assyrians
He remains faithful and courageous under threat.
The Assyrian king sent representatives to bully and belittle. The plan was to intimidate Judah.
”We Assyrians have defeated every kingdom and every god of every kingdom! Give up. Judah! You have
no choice but to fall to us. Don’t even put up a fight and surrender now”
Hezekiah received this message and responded by……
Isaiah the Prophets enters the story line.
The two leaders through faithful reliance on God and direct prayer asked for his
guiding hand.
The Lord defeats the Assyrians by his angelic force. The Assyrians was God’s choice to punish Israel only.
He will use another nation to punish Judah. Just not right now. Thanks to Good Leaders noted in these
chapters.

83. The Death of Hezekiah
Eventually, Hezekiah becomes ill. He is told that he would not recover and to plan for his death and
successor. Yet, He does not accept this fate. 2 Kings 20
It appears that after the victory over the Assyrians and the praise that came from other nations, Pride was
found in the kings heart. He would humble himself however. This spared Judah from God’s wrath during
his life.
God grants him an additional 15 years of life after his prayer. What does this show and how do we apply it
to us and our lives?
The king of Babylon would send representatives to visit. Hezekiah shows them everything.
Isaiah questions the king in this matter. Then gives a message from God. How did the King respond to the
news that Babylon would soon take Judah captive? How are we to
Interpret these things?

84. The Last Straw: God ‘washes his hand’s” of Judah: Manasseh’s reign.
After Good King Hezekiah, his son Manasseh takes the crown at the young age of 12.
He rules for 55 years. Unfortunately, he does not follow he father Hezekiah.
Manasseh choses to follow after Ahab and the Israelite path. He worships Baal.
Besides the positive influence of his father, who else would he have had to disregard and ignore to go in
this direction? Hint - 2 people/groups.
Following after the North is a clear sign of Spiritual Blindness, a Hard Heart, and the Sin nature.
Review and compare Hezekiah’s Father and his Son. Who does God say was worst? Why? What does it
say that Hezekiah was different than both of them? Hint – Jotham (2Kings15)
Manasseh eventually is humbled. How? Does this means he fully repented?
Was this enough to save Judah?
Judah will have one more Good King to come. So, God does not destroy them yet. Why?

85. The LAST Good King: Josiah
King Josiah followed his father Amon, but did NOT follow him in his ways.
Josiah commanded the Scribes to fund the restoration of the Temple.
Hilkiah, the High Priest, is brought the lost records of the Law (apparently misplaced and forgotten)
Hilkiah rent his clothes upon receiving and hearing the Law of Moses.
He knows that God’s wrath was deserved, Why?
He has his staff contact the Prophets of God to get a word from God. This message goes to Huldah. What
states out about Huldah?
What message does Huldah deliver?
King Josiah is told that he would not see the coming Calamity that is destined for the people.

86. Josiah’s Reign
Josiah renews the covenant between God and the People.
Josiah Restores the Passover.
It is said that He did the Passover ‘as it had not been none since the time of the Judges’. Likely
referring to Samuel the last Judge before Saul.
Does this mean that the Passover was not observed the entire time of the Kings, including David’s
reign? It is a thought but I think it is in reference to “HOW” it was done.
Josiah had a pure heart. He truly sought the Lord and did all that he did in sincerity. Others before him,
even when they kept the Law, must have done so, half-heartedly. Going through the motions as they
say and as WE often do. God would honor him for this distinction!
Unfortunately, this does not SAVE Judah. It’s FATE is SEALED. V26

87. Judah is FALLEN!
After Josiah, the remaining 4 kings are merely PLACE HOLDERS!
Jehoahaz. Jehoiakim, Jehoiachin and Zedekiah are all evil and dismissive of God.
Judah’s Fate has been determined.
Does that mean that these 4 Kings had to disobey?
Were they PRE-DESTINED to disobedience?
Jehoahaz becomes a vassel of Egypt. He taken to Egypt as a prisoner.
The Pharoah replaces him with another of Josiah’s son – Jehoiakim.
Jehoiakim is also a vassel of Egypt. He does evil in the sight of God. Under his rule, Babylon invaded and
takes control. Egypt is no longer in charge.
Jehoiachin becomes the next in line. Nebuchaddezer takes him captive to Babylon in his 8th year. Judah is
stripped bare.
Zedekiah is the last King. Under his watch the last of the South are taken to Babylon!

88. Rewind and Review : Highlights and Lessons Learned
People NEED to be led!
Selflessness vs Selfishness is a key trait separating the GOOD leaders from the BAD ones
Yet, Pride and disobedience is likely the MOST important trait marking the BAD and Humility and
obedience are the traits marking the GOOD.
Lesson Learned #1
Good Leaders can do the right things but the people still have to FOLLOW!!
“You can led a horse to water, but you can’t make ‘em drink”
Bad Leaders can guide you down the wrong path, but you don’t have to FOLLOW!
So it truly is a two way street. God holds the Leader responsible for leading but he also hold the
follower accountable.
“You can chose NOT to follow the BAD Leader”
It takes COURAGE to lead!

89. God provides the means and opportunity to succeed
Rehoboam in the South and Jeroboam in the North both could have followed after God.
Both choose not to do so.
Rehoboam had a set of GOOD counselors and BAD ones to listen to and he chose to follow the BAD.
Jeroboam had the favor and promise GOD and the Prophet of God to guide him. He chose to ignore.
It was Jeroboam that set up two sites in two cities for Golden Idols to worship. He annoited his own
priest to began his false religion.
It is because of Rehoboam that Israel in the North NEVER had a GOOD King and that they fail to the
Assyrians over 100 years sooner Judah. 18 Kings were BAD. One was OK. None were GOOD.
God did place much the blame of their fate on his shoulders.

90. Rehoboam governed selfishly.
His pride made him build and accomplish carnal and secular success and to ignore any thing that
God would have wanted.
He did benefit from having a large host of GOOD Levites and Priest who fled the North and came to
Judah, which helped strengthen the south’s spiritual foundation.
Lesson Learned #2
God’s Will (Sovereignty) and Man’s Free Will (Choice) both co-exist and needs to be understood in
balance.
Judah DID last longer than Israel. It did so because it had more GOOD Levites, Priest, and Kings.
Judah had 6 GOOD Kings. 2 more who were OK. 12 were BAD.

91. ASA was a good king. Yet, he allowed Self Reliance in decision making to effect his reign.
Jehoshaphat was the next GOOD King. Reigned at the same time as EVIL King AHAB.
Lesson Learned #3
The “Lying Spirit”.
Ahab’s fate was HIS Choice. God gave him plenty of chance and opportunity to REPENT. He would Not!
God BUILT up Elijah’s faith over time with small victories. This gave him the courage to do the Big Thing
the God knew he would need to do when he challenged the 400 false prophet’s of Baal.
Lesson Learned # 4
STILL SMALL VOICE!
God wants us to focus on HIM and NOT our FEARS.