2 Kings 15

2 Kings 15:1

AZARIAH (UZZIAH) REIGNS OVER JUDAHIn many ways Azariah (Uzziah) was a good king. However, he did something that he should not have done: he intruded into the priest’s office. For this he was smitten with leprosy (2Ch_26:15-21). It broke Isaiah’s heart when he died because Isaiah was afraid Azariah’s successors would lead the nation back into idolatry. Azariah’s fears were well-grounded, for his grandson did just that. We will spend more time on the reign of Uzziah when we come to Chronicles and Isaiah. In Israel Zachariah, the last of the line of Jehu, was slain by Shallum after he had reigned for only six months. Shallum did not do very well, either. He reigned for only one month and was overthrown and slain by Menahem. Menahem reigned for ten years and did evil as had Jeroboam. At this time Pul, king of Assyria, came against Israel, and Menahem paid one thousand talents of silver to preserve his kingdom. It was a dark period for the nation. At his death, his son Pekahiah succeeded him to the throne but reigned only two years, when Pekah, his captain, conspired and slew him. During the reign of Pekah, Tiglath-pileser, king of Assyria, came against Israel and took captive the tribe of Naphtali. Pekah was slain by Hoshea. Jotham reigned in Judah, and was recognized as a good king.

2 Kings 15:33

JOTHAM REIGNS OVER JUDAHNow we return to the kings of Judah and the son of Azariah (Uzziah). He is rated as a good king, and the Lord records the name of his mother.

2 Kings 15:34

He also tolerated the idolatry which would eventually send his people into captivity. As we begin chapter 16, let me say that if you enjoy history, you will find this section intensely interesting. If you are looking for spiritual lessons, you will find some very practical things in this section. Much of this part of God’s Word is extremely helpful. Remember, all of these things happened as examples for us.