This morning we begin our new study of the Kings of Israel by analyzing the biblical literature in which we find the record of the OT kings of Israel and Judah: 1-2 Samuel, 1-2 Kings, and 1-2 Chronicles. When we read 1-2 Samuel and 1-2 Kings in conversation with 1-2 Chronicles, we discover that there are sometimes significant and even puzzling differences between the two records. However, we can appreciate these contrasts when we understand the purpose for each book.