Sin challenged the Lord’s reign over Israel, just as it had earlier challenged His reign over creation. God’s chosen people rebelled against Him and broke the covenant, seeking other masters in His place. The kings whom God had raised up to lead the people in righteousness instead led them astray, setting up idols for them to worship. As a result, instead of righteousness, peace, and joy, Israel experienced the curses of the covenant, culminating in exile from the land of promise. The Great King