A New Chapter

When you read 1 and 2 Chronicles, you can’t help but ask, “What’s the point?” Especially if, like me, you recently finished reading all of Samuel and Kings, you have the distinct feeling you’re rereading material you just got through. Not only do the narrative sections of Chronicles seem to be almost verbatim reproductions from other books, these sections are broken up by long – long – lists of names. I for one am tempted to just skip these readings altogether.

Here are some things that might make Chronicles worth a second glance:
• Best estimates place the writing of these books in the 4th century BC. At this time the descendants of Israel have returned from the exile and are trying to resettle Judah. They’re servants of the Persian Empire, and have forgotten their historic identity as the people of God.
• 1 and 2 Chronicles present an “alternative history” – though they capture many of the events of Samuel and Kings, they offer a slightly different slant. It’s worth paying close attention to the differences. The focus of the author (whose identity is unknown) is highlighting the ways God’s people got it wrong.
• The Jewish Bible includes Chronicles as its final book - and with good reason. It is a retrospective look at the life of the nation that God called and gathered. It is a book that highlights the triumphs of God and his chosen people; it is a book that looks with regret and nostalgia on good things that have come to an end. Finally, it is a warning to God’s people in all times and places not to repeat past mistakes. Throughout, God is shown to be just, good, and consistent. What God promises – be it blessing or judgment – God will deliver.

So take a closer look. 1 and 2 Chronicles may tell the same stories, but they tell a new story. It’s the story of God’s people, starting at the beginning. It’s a story of failure and loss. At the same time it’s the story of God’s unwavering faithfulness, and the promise that in God’s story there’s always a new chapter.