He did what was evil in the sight of the LORD; he did not depart from the sins of Jeroboam son of Nebat, who made Israel to sin — Menahem, despite (or because of) his brutal effectiveness, perpetuates the northern apostasy. The formula "did what was evil" applies even to the politically successful, once again affirming that military prowess and cultic faithfulness constitute separate axes. Menahem's reign demonstrates that stability achieved through terror cannot offset spiritual rebellion against the LORD.

COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS

Publish a note on this verse