1 and 2 Kings: An Introduction and Commentary

by Donald J. Wiseman

Book Overview

The book of Kings is a unique source for understanding the history of Israel from the last days of the united kingdom under David to the eventual fall of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. Presenting Israel's national history from a divine viewpoint, these narratives measure the kings of Israel and Judah not by the mark they leave on secular history, but by their "doing what is right in the Lord's sight." Embedded in this story are enduring lessons...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0877842590
• ISBN13: 9780877842590
• Release Date: January 1993
• Publisher: InterVarsity Press
• Length: 318 Pages
• Weight: 0.67 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 4.8" x 7.3"

Customer Reviews

This book is a fine textbook.

As the dean of a Christian college/seminary, we use this book as the textbook for one of our "Through the Bible" courses. We find the book to be factual and helpful for our students in understanding First and Second Kings. I highly recommend the book for anyone wanting to better understand these two Old Testament historical books.

Succint and Theologically sound!

Wiseman's commentary provides tremendous assistance in understanding the backdrop of 1 and 2 kings. A brief explanation accompanies each major section. Focus is given to cultural, archeological and theological aspects of the book. Wiseman interacts with various scholars as he endeavors to be a faithful interpreter. The author stresses the importance of keeping God's law as it stands face to face before the kings, the leaders of God's people and the nation of Israel as a whole. Yahweh, the undefeated King is utterly sovereign, yet the responsibility of men is not undermined in the book. The unfaithfulness of the leaders, particularly the elected kings of both (northern: Israel and southern: Judah) kingdoms to God, his covenant, and his message through the prophets brings about fractions and ultimately division in the dynasty (kingdom). The role of the prophets as God's spokesmen is emphasized by the author. One of the strength of this work remains the author's interest in applying the message of the book to the Christian life. In other words, the message of the book of kings is relevant to the modern church and the people of God. .

review on Wiseman

very insightful book that gives a easy to read description to the history of 1st and 2nd kings. Amazing author that knows what he is talking about