Bible Notes Online - 2-Kings 24 - ESV
Commentary

v1-2: Jehoiakim, the second of the final four kings, was the vassal of Egypt, and then of Babylon, as Nebuchadnezzar extended the influence of Babylon. Jeremiah faithfully preached to the people for 23 years (Jer 25.26).

v3-4: We are reminded that Judah was destroyed because of the sins of Manasseh.

v5-6: Jehoiakim reigned for eleven years.

v7: Babylon became the dominant nation, and Egypt was restricted to her own land.

v8-12: Jehoiachin was king for only three months, and during his reign, Nebuchadnezzar attacked Jerusalem, and the king surrendered to him.

v13-16: The Lord God had promised that the treasures of the temple would be removed (20.17-18). Nebuchadnezzar also took many able people from Jerusalem, transporting them to Babylon. He left the poorest in the land.

v17: Nebuchadnezzar made Zedekiah king, and Judah was effectively under Babylon's control.

v18-20: The final statement, that Zedekiah rebelled against Nebuchadnezzar; this would bring down the wrath of Nebuchadnezzar, and mark the final defeat of Judah.