80 ROBERT B. CHISHOLM, JR. * * * 2 Kings 3 is not a story about the failure of YAHWEH or his promise, but rather an account of Israel’s dismal failure in the face of opposi- tion. Jehoram’s partial success in battle ironically mirrors his partial com- mitment to YAHWEH, as described in the chapter’s opening verses (vv. 1-3). As such, the report of Israel’s retreat at the end of the chapter combines with the introductory report to round off the chapter themat- ically. Jehoram’s commitment to YAHWEH was half-hearted and he failed to experience the fullness of YAHWEH’s blessing. Jehoram’s father be- lieved a deceptive message (even when told it was deceptive); Jehoram, fearing he was also a victim of divine deception, failed to believe a genu- ine oracle, albeit a contingent one, and turned potential victory into a de- feat, when he retreated before the anger of an inferior god. When all is said and done, it is apparent that Ahab’s dynasty was doomed to fail, whether it received a false oracle of victory or a genuine one. Dallas Theological Seminary Robert B. CHISHOLM, JR. Dallas TX, USA SUMMARY This is not a story of failed or deceptive prophecy, but rather an account of Israel’s failure in the face of opposition. YAHWEH’s promise was inherently contingent upon Israel’s willingness to bring it to completion. Their failure to do so is not surprising. Jehoram’s partial success in battle ironically mirrors his partial com- mitment to YAHWEH (vv. 1-3). As such, the concluding report of Israel’s retreat combines with the introductory report to form a thematic inclusio for the chapter: Those whose commitment to YAHWEH is half-hearted invariably forfeit his blessing.