These chapters read like a Russian novel, with the main characters referred to by multiple names and having the same names as different characters. What is notable is the major unstability especially in Israel, with Kings regularly despatched and replaced by a Usurper who is in turn usurped. A clear example of sowing and reaping, although doubtless it was their own rebellious lifestyle against God that wreaked their destruction as much as the specific act of regicide.
What is also interesting is that God sends sickness (2 Kings 15.5). Or does He? Elsewhere in Chronicles it is clear that Azariah's (Uzziah) sickness is a direct consequence of his actions: jump in the fire and you will suffer burns, eat too much bacon and you'll get bowel cancer (according to doctors this week). So did God send it, or was it a consequence? I did set detentions for pupils as a teacher, but I was always at pains to explain that it wasn't my cruelty, but a logical and necessary consequence of their actions. I did not desire detentions for any of my pupils anymore than God desires sickness for His creation. Therefore we can pray for healing with confidence, knowing that God desires to heal, but conscious also that there may be other issues relating to the sickness. It is amazing how often people with bad backs get healed after forgiving some one they had been angry with for years. It is also obvious that praying for health for someone who does no exercise, smokes, drinks and lives on fast food may not be entirely successful. The healing ministry must be accompanied by great sensitivity to the voice of God. It is interesting to note too that Elisha, God's faithful servant who healed the sick and raised the dead, died of an illness; no obvious cause and effect is mentioned or implied.
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