“We can't play hide and seek with God.” – Pastor Jeff Cranston

In this episode, Pastor Jeff and Tiffany dive into 2 Kings. They talk about the challenging story of the prophet Elisha, the Assyrian invasion, the rise of Babylon, and the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC. They dive into the consequences of Israel and Judah's actions, their apostasy, and God's unwavering covenant with David, alongside the omnipresence of God. 

2 Kings is a profound reminder that actions have consequences, reminding us of the importance of heeding God's call and embracing repentance!  

[00:01 - 11:03] An Introduction to 2 Kings

• Pastor Jeff shares a challenging story about the prophet Elisha in 2 Kings 2:23 
• In episode 73, we covered 1 Kings, including King David's final days, Solomon's reign, and the division of the kingdom into Israel and Judah.
• Who authored 2 Kings? 
• 2 Kings, starting in 853 BC, covers the Assyrian invasion, the rise of Babylon, and major events like the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC.
• By the end of 2 Kings, Israel and Judah are no longer in their promised land.

[11:04 - 25:11] What Happens When We Walk Away From God?

• The Babylonian armies left many regions uninhabitable due to their destructive tactics, including burning, enslaving, and dispersing people and leaving regions uninhabitable.
• King Jehoiachin of Judah was taken captive by Babylonians.
• Major Themes: 
  • God's retribution and judgment against Israel and Judah for their apostasy.
  • Despite their sins, God did not forget his covenant with David, preserving a remnant.
  • The omnipresence of God.
  • God's presence is beyond the temple.

[25:12 - 28:58] How To Apply 2 Kings: Actions Have Consequences

• It’s important to heed God's warnings through prophets about repentance and the consequences of sin.
• How are you responding to God's call?
• Paul reminds us in Corinthians that events in 2 Kings are recorded for our instruction and learning.

Quotes:

“The author of 2 Kings identified the Israelite’s national demise as God's retribution and judgment against his rebellious people.” – Pastor Jeff Cranston 

“Their apostasy is directly linked to God's judgment… When you abandon God; The demise and attacks that were brought on them, the capture, all that is viewed in 2 Kings as God's retribution and judgment because they left God.” – Pastor Jeff Cranston

Resources Mentioned

• Will David reign with Jesus in the Millennial Kingdom?
• KTT Episode: The Eschatology Series Part 1
• KTT Episode: God Is Omnipresent

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Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!