The Last King of Judah (MACBS)

The class explores the requirements for a king before taking the throne, focusing on Zedekiah, the last king of Judah. It discusses the reasons Israel sought a king, emphasizing the importance of a personal knowledge of God's law for the king, and the diminished state of Judah when Zedekiah ascended to the throne.

Passages: 1 Samuel 8:4-20, 1 Samuel 11:1-2, 2 Kings 24:14-17

The class covers Zedekiah's reign as the last king of Judah, focusing on the yokes he faced: captivity, Babylonian rule, and God's prophecy through Jeremiah. It emphasizes the importance of obedience and the consequences of rejecting divine guidance.

Passages: 2 Kings 24:13-16, Jeremiah 29:1-7, Jeremiah 27:4-11, Jeremiah 28:2-11

The class discusses Zedekiah's covenant with Nebuchadnezzar and his subsequent breaking of it, emphasizing the consequences of disobedience and the importance of keeping oaths. It also touches on Jeremiah's prophecies and Zedekiah's brief moment of obedience before ultimately failing to uphold his covenant.

Passages: Jeremiah 28:1-4, Ezekiel 17:11-19, 2 Chronicles 36:11-13, Jeremiah 51:59, Jeremiah 34:8-10

The class discusses King Zedekiah's actions during the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem, focusing on his proclamation of liberty to servants and subsequent betrayal. It highlights the hypocrisy and disregard for God's law, emphasizing the consequences of such actions and the importance of leadership in adhering to divine precepts.

Passages: Jeremiah 34:8-14, Jeremiah 37:5, Deuteronomy 15:12-14

The class discusses Jeremiah's prophecy to King Zedekiah, emphasizing the choice between surrendering to the Babylonians and facing certain death or judgment. It highlights Zedekiah's craven nature and the contrasting faith of Jeremiah and Ebed-Milek, illustrating the importance of courage and obedience in the face of fear.

Passages: Jeremiah 38:1-28, Deuteronomy 31:6-8

The class discusses Zedekiah, the last king of Judah, focusing on his disobedience and the consequences, including his capture and exile to Babylon. It also explores the themes of obedience to God's word and the promise of a future righteous king.

Passages: Ezekiel 12:1-14, Jeremiah 38:14-20, Jeremiah 23:1-6