1-2 Samuel Key Concepts
The purpose of the books of Samuel is to tell the story of the establishmentof the covenant of kingship with David.
• Samuel is established as a recognized and verified man of God.
• God established a kingship covenant with David and his descendants.
• The key to successful kingship is the recognition that Yahweh is the true king, therefore a king’s reign must reflect Yahweh’s values.
• It is important to honor the presence of God [ark, temple].

1-2 Kings Key Concepts
The purpose of the books of Kings is to demonstrate that the kings of Israel and Judah failed to live up to the ideals of the kingship covenant made with David.
• The two books of Kings, like the book of Judges, document covenant failure.
• The exiles are shown that the cause of the judgment was apostasy and idolatry.
• The kings were frequently warned by the prophets.
• Recurrent themes are the sins of Jeroboam (the golden calves) and the promises to David (covenant).

1-2 Chronicles Key Concepts
In contrast to the books of Kings, writing during the exile, the books of Chronicles cover the same period but were written after the people returned from their exile. As a result, they are written from an entirely different perspective. The purpose of these two books is to show that throughout Israel’s history, obedience led to blessing and disobedience led to trouble.
• Seeks to understand the basis for continuity, transformation, and theological stability.
• Highlights retribution theology and the role of the priests and Levites.
• Leads the post-exilic community to refocus from monarchy to theocracy.
• Recurrent themes: reform and repentance as means to God’s blessing.