The stories that appear in the books of 1 & 2 Kings are part of a longer tragedy. Together with the books of Joshua, Judges and Samuel, they tell how the people of Israel moved from a bright beginning across the Jordan River into, and then out of, the Promised Land, and away to exile in Babylon. Throughout the books of Kings, the repeated message is the importance of faith in God and faithfulness to God, demonstrated in the lives of those who reigned over both Israel and Judah. There is a lesson to be learned. Righteousness brings it rewards - usually - and so does failure to walk in God's ways. Along the way, we encounter such memorable characters as Elijah and Elisha, Queen Jezebel, and Solomon in all his dangerous glory. The People's Bible Commentary is planned to cover the whole Bible, with a daily readings approach that brings together both personal devotion and reflective study. Combining the latest scholarship with straightforward language and a reverent attitude to Scripture, it aims to instruct the head and warm the heart. The authors come from around the world and across the Christian traditions, and offer serious yet accessible commentary. The People's Bible Commentary is an invaluable resource for first-time students of the Bible, for all who read the bible regularly, for study group leaders, and anyone involved in preaching and teaching scripture.