‘Thoughts'
I & II CHRONICLES
As it was with Samuel and Kings, the two books were originally one composition. It is not given as a political history (in the same period of time as II Samuel through I & II Kings), but a divine editorial of God's people during the same period of time. The books provide a historical map and editorial of the Davidic dynasty of Judah .
The first book begins with the royal line of David and then traces the spiritual significance of David's righteous reign. The second book begins with Solomon's reign and temple construction, and ends with Cyrus's edict to rebuild the temple; with particular attention paid to the kings of reform, that brought temple worship back to its intended purpose as given in the Law.
Title: The Hebrew title simply means, “The Words of the Days”, “The Annuls”. They were not referred to as the Chronicles until about 400 AD.
Author and Date: Chronicles contains no statements about its own authorship or date. Its genealogies extend to the grandsons of Zerubbabel, who led the return from exile. In addition, the Chronicles seem to be extended by the book of Ezra, which continues the history of Israel from the decree of Cyrus through both the returns from captivity (about six decades). Ezra was also a scribe, which may explain the detail of the genealogies by means of his access to official court records.
Contents: Chronicles consists of four basic parts:
• The genealogies that would enable the returning Israelites the ability to establish their blood lines and family descent ( I Chronicles 1-9 ).• The kingdom of David , a pattern as a standard for future generations of Israel 's monarchs to follow ( I Chronicles 10-29 ).• The reign of Solomon and the establishment of temple worship ( II Chronicles 1-9 ).• Finally, the history of the southern kingdom ( Judah ), with emphasis on the reforms and military victories of the more devout kings ( II Chronicles 10-36 ).
In the prophetic realizations of the words of Moses to the nation of Israel , the Chronicles records the blessings and cursing of the people, predicated on their fidelity to God. The Chronicles would stand as testimony to the post exile Israelites of how they may secure divine blessings in their days.
Good Reading !