New Testament writers, as well as Jesus Himself, often alluded to and quoted from the Hebrew Scriptures. This series explores that section of the Bible, also known as the Old Testament or “The Law, the Prophets and the Writings.”
In their descent to national downfall, the people of ancient Israel increase in idolatry despite repeated warnings from the prophets of the day. The outcome is just as God promised.
In the eighth century BCE, the prophet Hosea proclaimed blessings, curses, captivity and ultimate restoration for the ancient kingdom of Israel. But those prophecies actually date from much earlier.
Solomon’s kingdom has been divided, but the period of the early monarchs who succeed him is still largely defined by treachery, disloyalty and increasing idolatry.
In a continuation of ancient Israel’s troubled history, an aging King David endures more violence and intrigue among his children but ultimately passes the crown to his son Solomon.
