David is followed by a succession of mostly unrighteous kings. God raises up prophets to proclaim the coming of a Messiah and to call people to return to His ways, but the people continue to disobey God, so God disciplines His people by sending them into exile. After 70 years in captivity in Babylon, Nehemiah leads a return to Jerusalem and rebuilds the walls for God’s glory. Then God is silent for 400 years.