2 Ki. 14: More Civil War

2 Kings 14:23 "In the fifteenth year of Amaziah son of Joash king of Judah, Jeroboam son of Jehoash king of Israel became king in Samaria, and he reigned forty-one years." 

Joash's son Amaziah takes power in Judah. Amaziah is reported as doing right in the eyes of the LORD, but not as good as David. And I thought, why didn't those who killed his father take control? Maybe they tried, but Amaziah had them killed. But he didn't kill their sons in accordance with Dt. 24:16. Which was nice. Amaziah's one great military exploit is listed as crushing the Edomites in the Valley of Salt.

Then he picks a fight with Jehoash from Israel. Jehoash rocks his world, but not before warning Amaziah in a cryptic parable about a thistle and a cedar. Amaziah stuck to his stance, and as a result was himself captured by Jehoash and Jerusalem was looted. He was killed upon his escape attempt. Should've consulted God, I s'pose.

In Judah, Amaziah is followed by his 16-year-old son, Azariah.

Meanwhile, Jeroboam II takes over for Jehoash in Israel. It says it was during the 15th year of Amaziah, so...who really captured Amaziah? Was there a co-regency? Was Amaziah taken in a time of transition? Hmm...

Jeroboam II was described as someone who didn't deviate from the example set by the first Jeroboam. While he was evil, God still used him to save territory. Jeroboam II increased Israel's territory. Apparently God was done reducing the size of Israel's territory...or Jeroboam was disobedient? 

After Jeroboam II's death, Zechariah became king.