Jotham and Ahaz Reign. II Kings 15, 16

 

II Kings 15- Jotham Reigns over Judah

 

As a time of reckoning drew near, the kingdoms of Israel and Judah suffered under the rule of men whose godless lies brought more and more trouble. Conspiracies abounded as God's law was ignored.

 But there were two exceptions Azariah and his son Jotham, who followed his father's example. Unfortunately, Azariah became proud and wanted to serve as a priest. The Lord punished him by making him a leper. It is a lesson of second kings 14:10 all over again:

Accept the sphere of blessing God gives you and do not meddle with matters that are beyond you.

 

 

II Kings 16 – Ahaz Reigns Over Judah

 

In the seventeenth year of Pekah’s reign in Israel, Ahaz began his reign in Judah. He was not a good king. He offered children as sacrifices to heathen gods. He sacrificed and burnt incense in all the high places, on the hills and under every green tree.

Isaiah challenges this man to trust God. Ahaz appeals to the Assyrians which opens the door to the captivity of the northern kingdom. He bribed the Assyrians who come to his aid by attacking Damascus in Syria and then take the city.

Ahaz mutilated the house of God and stripped it of its elaborate ornamentation. After Ahaz dies, his son Hezekiah reigns in his place.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

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J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.