1

& 2 Chronicles
Purpose
1 & 2 Chronicles summarize the history of Israel, particularly the reign of David and his descendents, in a way that highlights their spiritual successes in order to give hope to the Jews who were returning to the land.

Authorship & Genre

1 and 2 Chronicles were written after Judah returned to the land from captivity in Babylon, possibly by Ezra. The author compiled genealogies, official documents, poetry, and narrative stories from throughout Israels history to provide a comprehensive picture of Gods dealings in the past to give hope for the future.

Key Verse

2 Chronicles 7:14: And [if] My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land. (NASB)

Structure
1 9 1 Ch. 10 2 Ch. 9 10 36

Genealogical Records United Monarchy History of Judah Line of David and Israel, from David and Solomon construct Good Kings vs. Bad, concludes Adam to the return from the Temple with captivity and return. captivity 1 Chronicles 2 Chronicles

Theological Themes
Temple: 1 & 2 Chronicles highlight David and Solomons roles in the temples construction and close with the initiation of its reconstruction after the captivity. Worship: 1 & 2 Chronicles emphasize the theme of worship more than any other book besides Psalms. This emphasis highlights the authors concern for right relationship with God upon the peoples return to the land. Prayer: From the Prayer of Jabez (1 Chr. 4:10) to Solomons Dedication of the Temple (2 Chr. 6:1-42), these books are rife with prayer. In Gods own words, prayer was central to the healing of the land after exile (2 Chr. 7:14). Hope from the Past: The author of Chronicles uses Gods works in times gone by to encourage the people for what lies ahead. We have hope for the future because of what God has already done in the past.