2 Kings 17

Commentary

In 2 Kings 17, we see the consequences of the Israelites’ disobedience to God. After the death of King Solomon, the kingdom of Israel was divided into two separate nations, Israel and Judah. The northern kingdom of Israel was ruled by a succession of wicked kings who led the people away from God and into idolatry. As a result, God allowed the Assyrians to conquer the northern kingdom and take the people into exile. The chapter begins with a description of the Assyrian king, Shalmaneser, who conquered the northern kingdom of Israel. He brought in people from other nations to inhabit the land and to serve as a reminder to the Israelites of their disobedience. The chapter then goes on to describe the various forms of idolatry that the Israelites practiced, including the worship of the gods of the nations around them. The chapter ends with a warning from God to the people of Judah, who were still in the land. He warned them to not follow the example of the Israelites and to remain faithful to Him. He promised that if they did, He would protect them from the same fate that befell the northern kingdom. This chapter serves as a reminder to us of the consequences of disobedience to God. We must remain faithful to Him and His commands, or else we will suffer the same fate as the Israelites.