Chronicles: [ /kränək(ə)ls/ ] noun --- the daily or yearly records of the transactions of a kingdom.
The author is unknown. However, tradition holds that much, if not all, of Chronicles was written by the prophet Ezra. We will look at that book, as well as Nehemiah next month.
OVERVIEW:
Like the books of Samuel and Kings, Chronicles were originally one. The books held a title in Hebrew that means "Acts of the Days." This title was rendered by Jerome in his Latin version, "Chronicon," and therefore into English, Chronicles, in our bibles.
The Books of 1 & 2 Chronicles cover much of the same information as 1 & 2 Samuel and 1 & 2 Kings. The biggest distinction is that 1 & 2 Chronicles focus more on the priestly aspect of the time.
The Book of 1 Chronicles was written after the exile to help those returning to Israel understand how to worship God. The history focused on the Southern Kingdom, the tribes of Judah, Benjamin, and Levi. These tribes tended to be more faithful to God. The first 9 chapters of 1 Chronicles are dedicated to lists and genealogies. Further lists and genealogies are scattered throughout the rest of 1 Chronicles. In between, the Book of 1 Chronicles records David’s ascension to the throne and his actions throughout his reign. The book concludes with David’s son Solomon becoming King of Israel.
The Book of 2 Chronicles is essentially an evaluation of the nation’s religious history. The text records the history of the Southern Kingdom of Judah, from the reign of Solomon to the conclusion of the Babylonian exile. The decline of Judah is disappointing, but emphasis is given to those in the kingdom who zealously seek to turn the people back to God. Little is said about the bad kings or of the failures of good kings; goodness is the highlight. Since 2 Chronicles takes a priestly perspective, the Northern Kingdom of Israel is rarely mentioned because of her false worship and refusal to acknowledge the Temple of Jerusalem. Second Chronicles concludes with the final destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple.
SO WHAT?
It seems at this point that we would wonder why God would repeat what has been shared in previous writings. Yes, there are some details and additional content, by why be repetitive, Lord? We must look again at the text. Even though there are some repetitive accounts, we are given more information and have the focus on seeing the merciful hand of God as He keeps His covenant intact with His people for His name’s sake. God’s faithfulness, His goodness, and His promises are needed reminders for His people – both in the Old Testament and today for us.
As we read these accounts, we must see the fault of seeking promises and peace with earthly kings and rulers. They cannot deliver true peace or everlasting joy – only the King of kings, Jesus has made that promise and is going to fulfill that promise. Just as the saints of the Old Testament turned their eyes from the Lord and onto men, we see that humanity still does that today. We waver in trusting in the good promises of our God and seek earthly hope. I believe that as we read through the Bible, we will be reminded of God’s faithfulness, purpose, and promises - a Yes and Amen in Jesus. We should read these accounts in scripture and reflect on how we can learn as followers of Jesus to trust Him, even when we cannot fully understand His plan. Famous pastor, Charles Spurgeon, said, “God is too good to be unkind and He is too wise to be mistaken. And when we cannot trace His hand, we must trust His heart.” If you are hard-pressed to recall specific times when God worked in your life, consider your bible-reading habits and fellowship with other Christians, in Sunday worship service and throughout the week. A prayer journal that recalls prayers asked and those answered can act as your own “history” manual. God wants us to remember His works, so we, too, can praise Him for His goodness and have hope for our future!
Next month, we will look at the Books of Ezra and Nehemiah. The books were written after the return from Babylonian exile and focuses on the themes of hope, restoration, and a continual remnant kept for the Lord God even amidst unfaithful generations of mankind.
I have been blessed to hear your feedback to me. I have heard of restored joy in the scriptures, and even a few accounts of individuals reading specific biblical texts for the first time in your Christian walk. Friends, let’s continue to trust the Bible and God who inspired it. He never changes, He is trustworthy, and therefore, His word is trustworthy (John 17:17; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21).
I would love to hear from you, pray for you, and encourage you. Reach out to me via email: Colin@nlcwanamingo.org or by phone: 507-824-3019. May God richly bless you with peace through Jesus Christ today, my friends.
