2 Kings 21:14

So I will forsake the remnant of My inheritance and deliver them into the hands of their enemies. And they will become plunder and spoil to all their enemies,

Study Bible

So I will forsake the remnant of My inheritance
This phrase indicates God's decision to abandon the remaining people of Israel, who are referred to as His "inheritance." The term "remnant" often refers to a small, faithful group preserved by God, but here it highlights the few left after previous judgments. Historically, this reflects the period of the divided kingdom, where the Northern Kingdom (Israel) had already fallen to Assyria, and the Southern Kingdom (Judah) was under threat due to its idolatry and disobedience. Theologically, this forsaking is a consequence of persistent sin, echoing warnings given through prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah. The concept of God forsaking His people is a sobering reminder of the covenantal relationship, where blessings are contingent upon obedience.

and deliver them into the hands of their enemies.
This phrase signifies a transfer of power and protection from God to foreign nations. Historically, this was fulfilled when Judah was conquered by Babylon, leading to the exile. The "enemies" here are the surrounding nations that God used as instruments of judgment. This reflects the Deuteronomic cycle of sin, judgment, repentance, and deliverance. Theologically, it underscores the seriousness of breaking covenant with God, as seen in Leviticus 26 and Deuteronomy 28, where God warns of such consequences. This also prefigures the ultimate deliverance from sin through Christ, who was delivered into the hands of His enemies for the sake of humanity's redemption.

And they will become plunder and spoil to all their enemies,
This phrase describes the fate of Judah as a result of divine judgment. "Plunder and spoil" indicate total defeat and humiliation, where the people and their possessions are taken by conquering nations. Historically, this was realized during the Babylonian conquest, where Jerusalem was sacked, the temple destroyed, and the people exiled. This outcome was a direct result of the nation's failure to heed prophetic warnings and repent. Culturally, being plundered was the ultimate disgrace for a nation, signifying complete loss of autonomy and identity. This serves as a stark warning of the consequences of turning away from God, yet it also sets the stage for future hope and restoration, as God promises to eventually bring His people back from exile, a theme echoed in the prophetic books and ultimately fulfilled in the New Covenant through Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Manasseh
The king of Judah during this time, known for his idolatry and evil practices, which provoked God's anger.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which is being addressed in this passage as the remnant of God's inheritance.

3. Enemies of Judah
The surrounding nations that God would use as instruments of judgment against Judah.

4. God's Inheritance
Refers to the people of Israel, whom God chose as His own possession.

5. Prophetic Judgment
The declaration of God's intention to forsake Judah due to their persistent disobedience and idolatry.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Idolatry
Idolatry leads to spiritual and physical ruin. Manasseh's reign exemplifies how turning away from God results in severe consequences.

God's Righteous Judgment
God's decision to forsake Judah underscores His holiness and justice. He cannot tolerate sin indefinitely.

The Importance of Repentance
While judgment is pronounced, the broader biblical account shows that repentance can lead to restoration, as seen in Manasseh's later life.

The Role of Leadership
Leaders have a profound impact on the spiritual direction of a nation. Manasseh's actions led Judah into sin, highlighting the responsibility of godly leadership.

Hope Amidst Judgment
Even in judgment, God's ultimate plan is redemptive. The exile was a means to purify and eventually restore His people.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Manasseh's reign illustrate the dangers of idolatry, and what modern forms of idolatry might we need to guard against?

2. In what ways does God's judgment on Judah serve as a warning for us today, both individually and collectively as a church?

3. How can we apply the principle of repentance in our lives, especially when we recognize areas where we have turned away from God?

4. What lessons can we learn from the leadership of Manasseh about the influence of leaders on the spiritual health of a community?

5. How does the theme of hope amidst judgment in 2 Kings 21:14 encourage us to trust in God's redemptive purposes, even when facing difficult circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, providing a backdrop for understanding the consequences faced by Judah.

2 Chronicles 33
Offers a parallel account of Manasseh's reign, including his eventual repentance, highlighting God's mercy even amidst judgment.

Isaiah 1
The prophet Isaiah speaks of Judah's rebellion and the call to repentance, echoing the themes of judgment and hope.

Jeremiah 7
Jeremiah warns of the coming destruction due to the people's idolatry, similar to the message in 2 Kings 21.

Romans 1
Discusses the consequences of turning away from God, drawing a parallel to Judah's spiritual decline.