2 KINGS 14

AMAZIAH OF JUDAH + JEROBOAM II OF ISRAEL

Amaziah, son of Joash, reigns as king over Judah. Although he is faithful in some ways, his heart is divided. He kills the servants who murder his father and leaves up the high places of worship for false gods.

Amaziah defeats Edom in battle, giving him confidence. After his victory, Amaziah wants to pick a fight with Israel. His decision is a prideful and poor decision, leaving the people of Judah defeated and afraid.

Jehoash, Israel’s king, captures Amaziah and plunders Judah in his absence. Amaziah escapes captivity, but is found, captured again, and killed. After his death, his son Azariah becomes king over Judah and helps restore the land.

After the death of Jehoash, his son Jeroboam II becomes king over Israel. Jeroboam II continues Israel’s streak of evil kings, leading Israel into further rebellion. Jeroboam II restores Israel’s borders, fulfilling the prophecy God gave to Jonah. God sees that Israel is struggling, but uses Jeroboam to maintain the kingdom and protect them from being wiped out entirely. Jeroboam II dies and his son Zechariah becomes the next king over Israel.