Category Archives: Readings

Uzziah was one of Judah’s greatest kings, but he ends his reign in shame when he pridefully tries to enter the priestly office and offer incense in the Temple. God strikes him with leprosy of the forehead. Notes on 2 … Continue reading →

In his last prophetic act, Elisha puts his hands on the hands of King Joash of Israel as he shoots an arrow east, promising that Joash will defeat the Syrians in battle. Next he tells the king to strike the … Continue reading →

King Jehoash of Judah becomes ruler as a child, and during the first part of his reign he is godly and begins a project to repair breaches in the Temple. But after the death of the High Priest Jehoiada, he … Continue reading →

When the Queen Mother Athaliah of Judah learns that her son Ahaziah has been killed, she in turn murders all the remaining royal line so she can be sole ruler. But one woman saves a one-year-old baby – Joash, the … Continue reading →

Jehu, newly anointed as king of Israel, is God’s instrument in fulfilling Elijah’s prophecy and curse on the descendants of King Ahab. But Jehu is a flawed leader, because although he blots out Baal worship, he doesn’t end the worship … Continue reading →

Elisha sends a disciple to anoint Jehu as the next king of Israel. He takes up his role with relish, slaying King Jehoram and Judah’s king Ahaziah, and finally dispatching Queen Jezebel according to the prophecy of Elijah. Notes on … Continue reading →

God had previously told Elijah to “anoint” Hazael as king of Syria. Elisha takes up this mission, and foresees the suffering that this court advisor will bring as God’s vessel to bring judgment on Israel for its idolatry. Hazael then … Continue reading →