For years when I saw the terms "Israel and Judah" in the OT, I just thought it was referring to the same people. That is the Jews. As in: "For behold, days are coming, declares Yahweh, when I will restore the fortunes of My people Israel and Judah." (Jeremiah 30:3)
But then God opened my understanding to see, no, these Scriptures are referring to the two divided kingdoms of Israel. The ten exiled tribes of the northern kingdom of Israel (often referred to as Ephraim) and the southern kingdom of Judah with its two tribes of Judah and Benjamin. Which is why the books of Kings and Chronicles are constantly telling us about the king of Judah doing this. And the king of Israel doing that. I couldn't believe I never realized that! Am I the only one who was so confused? It really unlocked some profound understanding of end time events.
But then God opened my understanding to see, no, these Scriptures are referring to the two divided kingdoms of Israel. The ten exiled tribes of the northern kingdom of Israel (often referred to as Ephraim) and the southern kingdom of Judah with its two tribes of Judah and Benjamin. Which is why the books of Kings and Chronicles are constantly telling us about the king of Judah doing this. And the king of Israel doing that. I couldn't believe I never realized that! Am I the only one who was so confused? It really unlocked some profound understanding of end time events.
