SAD, BAD SISTERS
1 & 2 Chronicles were written/compiled to encourage the Jews as they returned from exile. Israel went into captivity first – then her faithless sister Judah followed.
Israel was the northern Kingdom – Judah the south. Both kingdoms were the recipients of messages from the prophets. The chart below is VERY helpful in tracking the relationships between the two kingdoms, the individual kings, and the prophets who spoke before, during, and after the captivity.
Isaiah explains why Israel is falling short – and why they are receiving the judgement of God. The Jews (like all nations) had a penchant for serving other gods. This was the downfall of both kingdoms. The alliances made with the gods of the surrounding nations was a personal affront to their Deliverer. Time after time His prophets warned them to turn from these idolatrous liaisons.
You will want to take a few minutes to consult the chronology and correlate Isaiah the prophet’s message. The first page of DEEPER in Isaiah (below) will help you pinpoint the focus of Isaiah, and provide layers for you to go as deep as you wish.
Isaiah – Yahweh’s Salvation. Isaiah – book of the coming Messiah! So many chapters – so little time. If your time is limited, chapters 1,6,9,36-40,53 will give you a good sense for Isaiah’s prophecies concerning Israel, the future, and Messiah Jesus.
“Come now, and let us reason together,” says the LORD.
Though your sins are as scarlet, they will be as white as snow;
Though they are red like crimson, they will be like wool.
If you consent and obey, you will eat the best of the land;
But if you refuse and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword.
Truly, the mouth of the LORD has spoken.” – Isaiah 1:18-20