Introduction to the first book of the Chronicles.
First and Second Chronicles, like First and Second Samuel and First and Second
Kings, were originally written as one unified book.
Chronicles was written for Jewish exiles who returned to the land of Israel after
being released from their captivity in Babylon.
The promised land had been lost, but now some captives were being permitted
to return to the land.
The message of First and Second Chronicles reminds them that they are still God's
chosen people.
They needed to know that God's covenant promises still had meaning for them.
In order to give the Jewish people continuity with their past, this book
records their family genealogies all the way back to Adam.
According to tradition, Ezra the priest wrote this account sometime after 450 B.C.
As you listen, notice the value in retracing the past and rediscovering
spiritual foundations.