The second book of Kings continues the history of the two separated kingdoms, Judah and Israel. with the prophet Elisha replacing Elijah as God's witness. both of truth and grace. Other prophets also witnessed and suffered for their faithfulness. In the books of Kings special prominence is given to the ministry of prophets, in contrast to the books of Chronicles. where the priests and Levites are more often noticed. This is consistent with the fact that Kings deals specially with the government of God as the true Ruler over the kingdoms of Israel and Judah, while the books of Chronicles more particularly emphasise the grace of God. For this reason the ten tribes (Israel) are more prominently seen in the books of Kings, while much more is said of Judah in the books of Chronicles.
No believing king is found in Israel, though in Judah there were some. Yet even in Judah there was not one king who had a really bright end to his life. Hezekiah might have hid if he had died when the Lord first told him he would, but he spoiled it when the Lord allowed him 15 years extra. Jotham had a relatively good reign, but he did not banish the high places of worship.