Overview
2 Chronicles

Who was the Chronicler?

• Originally, 1 Chronicles and 2 Chronicles were one book. The break between 1 and 2 Chronicles was made strictly for convenience, since they were originally one very large book. The dividing point is well chosen between David's and Solomon's reigns.
• Traditionally, it's been thought that Ezra wrote Chronicles. But an unknown priest of Levite may have been the author.

When was Chronicles written?

• Chronicles was written around 450 to 400 B.C. - more than six centuries after the first events it records, about 100-150 years after the last events in 2 Chronicles 36.

Who was the first audience for Chronicles?

• All the people of Israel, returned from exile.

Why was Chronicles written?

• Although Kings and Chronicles focus on the same time period, the emphasis of Chronicles is spiritual while the emphasis of Kings is historical. Chronicles sometimes contains details not found in Kings.
• The two books of Chronicles (originally one) reexamine the history of Israel. The writer's apparent goal was for the Israelites to recognized their godly roots and to rediscover their heritage.

What period of history does 2 Chronicles cover?

• The first nine chapters of 2 Chronicles covers Solomon's reign. The rest of the book is devoted to the kingdom of Judah from Solomon's reign to the Babylonian exile. The kingdom of Israel is virtually ignored in this history except when Israel relates to Judah.

What to look for in 2 Chronicles

• Second Chronicles is filled with truths and lessons for life which, if heeded, will help you in your pursuit of holiness.
• Look for the three whos: the king, the prophet, and the Lord. Of the three, the Lord and the king are most prominent. Ask: Who are the associates of the king? Who influences, opposes, or assists him?
• Look for what each king does, what God does in respect to that king, and what role the prophet plays, if any. In 2 Chronicles the "house" of God takes center stage; therefore, in each reign observe what the king's relationship is to the Lord and to His house.
• Keep track of when events occur and where things occur.
• Observing why events occur will bring insight into the character and sovereignty of God in the affairs of men and nations. Keep asking why. If the king does evil, ask why.
• Ask how. How did the king seek the Lord? How did the king do evil? How did God respond?