The Books Of History
The books of Joshua through Esther record key events in the history of Israel: their conquest of Canaan (Joshua); compromise with the enemy (Judges); the establishment of the kingdom, ending with a divided nation (1 and 2 Samuel—2 Chronicles); the captivity; and the return from exile (Ezra—Esther).
Israel’s besetting sin was idolatry, and these books record the decay of the nation both politically and spiritually because the people turned away from God and His Word. Throughout the turbulent history, God was faithful to His people, sending them prophets to call them to repentance and helping them in their crises. But the people repeatedly turned away from God to serve heathen idols, and the Lord finally had to chasten them and send them into captivity. God preserved His people so that He might send the promised Redeemer and fulfill His covenant to Abraham that through Israel all nations would be blessed.
Political systems change, as do means of war and international diplomacy, but human nature is the same today as in the days of Joshua, David, Solomon, and Hezekiah. As you read the history of Israel, you will discover how contemporary it really is: “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people” (Prov. 14:34).