In these two books, the author records the history of Judah, the southern kingdom. The focus is on the Davidic kings and the priesthood. These books were written during the time of the Babylonian exile and the author was trying to give the people hope. These books use the ups and downs to show the need for a good and faithful leader, ultimately this would be fulfilled in Jesus Christ. As long as the king and people honored God, there would be peace and prosperity. If they chose to be unfaithful there would be adversity.