In this episode covering 2 Kings 16–25 (The Long Decline and the Hope Ahead), Taylor Halverson and Mike Harris explore the dramatic 150-year period spanning the fall of the Northern Kingdom of Israel and the ultimate destruction of Jerusalem by Babylon.

Why You Should Listen

Listeners will gain a foundational understanding of one of the most critical turning points in biblical history—the origin of the "lost ten tribes" and the scattering of Israel. Taylor and Mike tackle these tragic, violent chapters with clarity, showing how ancient editorial frameworks reveal God's enduring covenant loyalty, respect for agency, and ultimate plan to gather His people in the last days.

What You Will Learn & Enjoy

• The Historical Context of the Scattering: Unpack the brutal reality of the Assyrian conquest in 722 BC, exploring why the 10 northern tribes fell and how understanding this tragedy illuminates modern LDS gathering efforts.

• Covenant Frameworks at Play: Discover the three background frameworks ancient editors used to tell this story—the Mosaic Conditional Covenant, the royal expectations of Deuteronomy 17, and God's Unconditional Covenant to David in 2 Samuel 7.

• Isaiah Prophecies Unlocked: Understand the real-world political drama behind the Syro-Ephraimite War and Isaiah's famous "Immanuel" prophecy (Isaiah 7), showing how God preserved Jerusalem despite King Ahaz's unfaithfulness.

• Insights into Biblical Editors: Learn to see the Old Testament through the eyes of ancient, Mormon-like inspired compilers who edited horrific historical events to teach future generations about God’s unfailing mercy and justice.