Introduction
First
and
Second Chronicles
are largely a retelling of events recorded in the books of
Samuel
and
Kings
but from a different point of view. Two main purposes govern the account of the history of the Israelite monarchy in the books of
Chronicles
:
1) To show that in spite of the disasters that had fallen upon the kingdoms of Israel and Judah, God was still keeping his promises to the nation and was working out his plan for his people through those who were living in Judah. As a basis for this assurance, the writer looked to the great achievements of David and Solomon, to the reforms of Jehoshaphat, Hezekiah, and Josiah, and to the people who remained faithful to God.
2) To describe the origin of the worship of God in the Temple at Jerusalem and especially the organization of the priests and Levites, by which the worship was carried out. David is presented as the real founder of the Temple and its ritual, even though it is Solomon who builds the Temple.
Outline of Contents
Genealogies and lists (1.1—9.44)
The death of Saul (10.1-14)
The reign of David (11.1—29.30)
a. Troubles and achievements (11.1—22.1)
b. Preparations for building the Temple (22.2—29.30)