F-260 Jehoiakim and Jehoiachin - 2 Kings 23:36-24:17  What do you imagine to be some of the hardships of living in a small country that is continually being conquered by one large neighbor or another?  If you had to choose between these two options, would you prefer to be banished from your native country for life or confined in your current home under house arrest?  How long did Jehoiakim (who was installed and renamed by the Pharaoh Neco of Egypt) rule in Jerusalem? (23:36)  What kind of a king was Jehoiakim? (23:27)  How did Jehoiakim’s relationship with Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon change during his rule? (24:1)  When raiders from Babylon and other countries attacked Judah, what prophecy was being fulfilled? (24:2)  When the Lord executed judgment against Judah, what sins in particular was He unwilling to forgive? (24:3-4)  Who succeeded Jehoiakim on the throne of Judah? (24:6)  Why was the king of Egypt no longer a potential ally and protector for Judah against Babylon? (24:7)  How long did Jehoiachin sit on the throne of Judah? (24:8)  What happened when Nebuchadnezzar and his army laid siege to Jerusalem? (24:10-12)  What was left of Judah’s people and wealth after Nebuchadnezzar captured the king and the city? (24:13-14)  Who were some of the notable people taken captive to Babylon? (24:15-16)  What was the relationship of Nebuchadnezzar’s puppet king to the previous king? (24:17)  Why did Nebuchadnezzar install a new king rather than deal with the old one?  Who were the various enemies that contributed to the downfall of Judah?  According to the prophets, why was Judah destroyed?  Why does God take it upon Himself to avenge “innocent blood”?  In what ways did Judah push God too far?  What are the pitfalls of relying on someone else’s strength, whether physical or spiritual?  What advantage was there in Nebuchadnezzar taking captive all but the poorest people of Judah?  What “riches” and “strength” do we possess in Christ that cannot be taken away by anyone?  How can you reaffirm your relationship with Christ and that you are not depending on anyone else’s faith or goodness to save you?  For what innocent or defenseless person could you step forward? In what way?