The Nation of Israel Divides (1 Kings 12 & 2 Chronicles 10)

Rehoboam was Solomon’s son who was crowned king of Israel (vs. 1). When he was approached by the people of Israel concerning their workload he turned to the elders for their advice. They recommended that Rehoboam be kind and show mercy to the people of Israel so that they would be his servants forever (vs. 7). He ignored the advice of the elders and listened to the foolish advice of the young men he grew up with, which was to increase the workload of the people, he was harsh with his people and did not listen to them (vs. 11, 13-14, 16).

The people of Israel cried out in hopelessness (vs. 16), this was quite different from 1 Kings 8:66 where they all went to their tents joyfully. They stoned Adoram who was over the forced laborers so Rehoboam fled to Jerusalem (vs. 18).

Jeroboam, Solomon’s servant from chapter 11, heard that Solomon died (vs. 2). The people of Israel called for him to return from Egypt (vs. 3). Upon his return he was made king over 10 tribes of Israel (vs. 19) Rehoboam was king of only Judah and Benjamin (vs. 19-20). Ahijah’s prophesy from 1 Kings 11:29-39 was fulfilled: that the kingdom would be torn out of Solomon’s hands and 10 tribes given to Jeroboam (vs. 15). At this is the point, Israel became a divided nation of 2 kingdoms:

1. Israel or the Northern Kingdom included the 10 tribes given to Jeroboam
2. Judah, the House of David or the Southern Kingdom included the tribe of Judah and the tribe of Benjamin. This was the linage of David to Solomon to Rehoboam

Rehoboam planned to attack the remaining 10 tribes led by Jeroboam but did not after the Lord sent word not to kill their relatives (vs. 24).

At the same time, Jeroboam’s heart filled with fear of his nation returning to be united with Judah (vs. 26-27) so he created worship that kept his people out of Jerusalem, worship of idols. He made 2 golden calves and told Israel to behold the gods that brought them out of Egypt (vs. 28) similar to what Aaron had done in Ex. 32:4,8. He made houses on high places and confirmed priests of those high places (vs. 31). He also instituted a feast on the 15th day of the 8th month where they sacrificed to the calves. A similar feast to the one the Lord established on the 15th day of the 7th month, the Feast of Tents or the Feast of the Tabernacle (vs. 32-33). All of these things were somewhat similar to the religious traditions of Israel but totally different as they were not focused on God.  As a result those who did not truly know God for themselves they were easily led astray.

Question to Ponder:  We must walk carefully and faithfully with God. Just because he blesses us does not mean that we can then venture out on our own. We should be cautious of whom we turn to for counsel; because of whom Rehoboam followed the kingdom of Israel revolted and divided. Godly wisdom, knowledge and discretion are so needed in the body of Christ today. Many believers are running to men when they should be running to the Word of God and simply obeying what He says. When you are in need of advice, where do you run?

The Turning of Solomon’s Heart (1 Kings 11)

Solomon loved many foreign women although it was strictly forbidden by God. God warned that associating with them would turn away a believer’s heart and that is what happened to Solomon. He had 700 wives and princesses as well as 300 concubines (1000 total WOMEN) who turned his heart away from God (vs. 1-3). Solomon turned FROM God TO idols and gods, this was evil in the eyes of the Lord (vs. 7) and the very thing God had warned Solomon about in the conditional promise (refer to 1 Kings 2:3, 3:14, 6:12, 8:24,61 and 9:4).

The gods Solomon followed:

• Ashtoreth, the pagan goddess of the Sidonians or Canaanites. She was the goddess of fertility, love and war, who later became the wife of Baal. (vs. 5)
• Milcom, a detestable idol of Ammonites whose name meant “king”; Solomon built him sanctuaries on the Mount of Olives (vs. 5). [Remember this is where the Temple was built, so Solomon built sanctuaries of a false king where he also built a Temple to worship the true King]
• Chemosh, god of Moab whose name meant to “subdue”; Solomon built him a high place on a mountain east of Jerusalem (vs. 7)
• Molech, detestable pagan god of Ammon who was known for human sacrifices, particularly children. (vs. 7)

God had appeared to Solomon two times each time warning him to be obedient and follow God’s Ways and God’s commands. When Solomon turned from God and worshiped idols and false gods, God became angry with Solomon (vs. 9-10). God told Solomon that because of Solomon’s sin, He would tear the kingdom from Solomon’s son and give it to Solomon’s servant (vs. 11-12).

God raised 3 men who were enemies of Israel:

1. Hadad fled Edom for Egypt when Joab, David’s commander, struck down all males in Edom (vs. 15). He found great favor with Pharaoh and married Pharaoh’s sister-in-law (vs. 19). When Haddad heard David & Joab had died he returned to Edom.
2. Rezon was from Zoab; he fled to and reigned in Damascus. He hated Israel because of David (vs. 24-25)
3. Jeroboam was a servant of Solomon. He was identified as an industrious man who was appointed over the forced labor of the house of Joseph. Ahijah the Prophet told Jeroboam that God would give him 10 of the tribes of Israel (vs. 31) because they had forsaken God and worshiped idols and gods (vs. 33). Ahijah said that Solomon’s son would pay for Solomon’s sins; however, because of God’s promise to forever have His name in Jerusalem, Solomon’s son would be given 1 tribe, the tribe of Judah (vs. 35-36). Jeroboam was also offered the promise once given to David and Solomon, that IF he walked in God’s ways and kept His commands, then God would always be with him and build him an enduring house as He did for David (vs. 38-39). When Solomon heard this he sought Jeroboam to put him to death, but Jeroboam fled to Egypt.

Solomon died after reigning over Israel for 40 years (vs. 42-43)

Question to Ponder: God is concerned with the state of our heart. He is a covenant keeping God; he had a covenant with David that he kept regardless of the state of Israel. He then kept the conditional promise he made to Solomon regarding Solomon walking in God’s ways as well as the promise he made to Solomon to keep His name in Jerusalem. Examine your heart; is it completely and fully devoted to God? Are there any areas that need to be cleansed, if so go to the Lord whole heartedly He is faithful and merciful.

How Importanant is the State of the Heart (1 Kings 2-11)

A Bible teacher of mine once said "The New [Testament] is CONTAINED in the Old [Testament] and the Old is PROCLAIMED in the New".  And how true that is!!  So often the state of he heart is assumed to the the focus of the New Testament and the Law the focus of the Old; however, we see the heart mentioned 34 times in 1 Kings.  Below is a review of what we have studied in chapters 2 through 11.

•  The first time the heart is mentioned, it is in the conditional promise God made David about the future of the kingdom if they walk with an upright heart 1 Kings 2:4
• The first reference to an evil heart was Shimei's.  This was the man David warned Solomon about who Solomon ended up killing 1 Kings 2:44
• David had a righteous and upright heart 1 Kings 3:6
• When Solomon prayed for wisdom in was in the context of an understanding heart 1 Kings 3:9; God answered that prayer again referencing Solomon’s heart later in vs. 12. This gift from God was again noted in 1 Kings 4:29
• It was David’s heart’s desire to build the Lord a house 1 Kings 8:17, 18,
• Solomon stated how all were to walk, before the Lord with all their heart 1 Kings 8:23
• In content of praying for future famines and pestilence in the land, Solomon prayed for the condition of Israel’s heart, specifically he prayed for the “affliction” or the plague of Israel’s heart in 1 Kings 8:38,39
• When sinning they were to turn to God with all of their heart 1 Kings 8:48
• Israel’s heart was to be inclined and fully devoted to the Lord 1 Kings 8:57, 61
• After the feast of the Tabernacle/Tents, the people returned to their tent with joy in their heart 1 Kings 8:66
• God heard Solomon’s prayer from chapter 8 and promised to have God's heart forever in the Temple Solomon built 1 Kings 9:3
• We again see the conditional promise of walking with an upright heart from 1 Kings 2:4 also in 1 Kings 9:4
• Solomon’s wise heart is described in 1 Kings 10:24 but notice the contract the next time Solomon’s heart is mentioned.
• Solomon's heart was turned away from God and toward other gods in 1 Kings 11:3-4.  This was the turning point in Solomon’s life and in the life of the nation of Israel.

God gave Israel the Law in the Old Testament; however, we see here in 1 Kings the importance of the heart and a beautiful foundation for what is ahead in the New Testament.  One of Jesus' core messages in the Sermon on the Mount is the state of the heart…if you have anger in your heart you have committed murder (Mt. 5:22) if you have lust in your heart you have committed adultery (Mt. 5:28). In light of this I encourage you to examine the state of your heart.

Solomon's Wisdom & Riches Confirmed by the Queen of Sheba (1 Kings 10 & 2 Chron.9)

Solomon was visited by Queen of Sheba, she had heard about Solomon’s fame and wisdom so she came with difficult questions to test him (vs. 1-10, 13). She affirmed the reports were true and Solomon’s wisdom and prosperity was actually two times what she was told (vs. 6-7). She gave Solomon 20 talents of gold, the greatest amount of spice every given and precious stones (vs. 10) and in return she received from Solomon all she requested (vs. 13)

Solomon’s riches and prosperity are articulated. King Hiram’s ships brought Solomon gold from Ophir as well as almug trees that were made into harps & lyres (vs. 11-12).

• With the 666 talents of gold with it he made shields (vs. 16-17) and cups (vs. 21). He also built a great throne (vs. 18-20)
• Silver lost its worth because there was so much of it (vs. 21-27); however, it was the very metal that was the price of Jesus’ life in Mt. 27:9
• Solomon was known for his fleet of chariots and horses (vs. 26-28)

We previously saw this display of Solomon’s riches, in chapter 4 we studied about the size of his land (vs. 1-21) and his provisions (vs. 22-28). Again the state of Solomon’s heart is described as wise in vs. 24

Question to Ponder: God’s keeps His promises; His promise to Solomon from 1 Kings 3:12 was fulfilled in vs. 23. Solomon’s riches both in his heart and his kingdom are described for all to see. Solomon had more wealth and riches than any man before or since. In Matthew 6 Jesus said that where one’s treasure is, there his heart is too. Focusing on riches can divide one’s heart—God is to have one’s whole heart. Does He have your whole heart?

God's 2nd Appearance to Solomon (1 Kings 9 & 2 Chron. 7:11-8:18)

There is about a 12 year gap between Solomon’s prayer in chapter 8 and the Lord’s 2nd appearance to Solomon (1 Kings 9: 1-10). After 12 years, God acknowledged He had heard Solomon’s prayer and supplication and consecrated the Temple Solomon had built. Find comfort here that God hears your prayers and just because you do not get an immediate answer does not mean that He has not heard.

God then restated the conditional promise to keep a king on the throne of Israel forever IF Solomon walked in God’s ways and kept His commands and statues(vs. 4-5). This is an important conditional promise; we have seen multiple times in 1st Kings. God then contrasted that promise with a warning of what would happen if they did not follow His ways and followed other gods instead. He told Solomon He would cut off Israel, they would be driven out of their land, and the Temple would be destroyed (vs. 6-9).

God knew they would follow other gods and not faithfully walk in His ways, so he promised mercy and grace for Israel’s repentance in 2 Chron. 7:14: “if my people who are called by my name shall humble themselves and pray, and see My face and turn from their wicked ways; then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

Hiram, the King of Tyre who provided Solomon timber in chapter 5 was not pleased with the cities Solomon gave him (vs. 13-14); however, his sailors still sailed with Solomon’s (vs. 27). This chapter also includes descriptions of Solomon’s wealth—which was promised by the Lord in chapter 3. Solomon built a house for Pharaoh’s daughter (2 Chronicles 8:11), his wealth and slave laborers are described in vs. 15-23.

Question to Ponder: When Solomon obeyed the Lord, kept His commands and walked in His ways, the Lord made him the wealthiest king on earth. NOTE the word “sin” in 2 Chronicles 7:14 is singular, ONE sin - idolatry. What in your life is taking the focus from God, keeping you from walking with Him? If your life is consumed with anything that results in you following it rather than the Lord, that “it” is an idol. What are some examples of these idols?

Solomon's Prayer over the Temple (1 Kings 8 & 2 Chron. 6:2-7:10)

The Temple was completed in the 8th month of the 11th year (1 Kings 6:38). There is an 11 month time gap where the furnishings recorded in chapter 7 were made. Then in the “7th month” the ark is moved to the Temple (1 Kings 8:1). There is significance to the 7th month; the 15th day of the 7th month was the Feast of the Tabernacle or Feast of Tents. This feast was to remind Israel of the time when they lived in tents in the wilderness; the tabernacle was His “tent,” His dwelling place and He lived in their midst during that time.

Solomon assembled the elders to move the Ark of the Covenant into the Temple’s Holy of Holies (vs. 1-7) Remember from 1 Kings 6: 27-29 and 2 Chron. 3: 12 there were 2 large cherubim in the Holy of Holies and under their wings is where the Ark of the Covenant is to be placed.

Solomon stood before the nation of Israel and proclaimed all God had done for them, then prayed for them (vs. 23-53). There are 2 words in regards to praying: “Prayer” is the general Hebrew word for speaking to God or making requests, while “supplication” is more specific for requesting kindness, mercy, or favor from Him. Solomon’s prayer and supplication included the following:

1. Praised God
• Acknowledged there is none like Him (vs. 23)
• The Lord’s attribute of One who keeps covenant
• His loving kindness - the act of kindness, love or mercy that is shown to someone usually reserved for close friends and family members
2. Proclaimed that Israel obey and walk in God’s ways so that there is a man on the throne of Israel (vs. 25). This was a prayer based on the promise God had given David and Solomon. He was praying God’s Words, we too should know God’s Word and Pray it.
3. Plead for God to listen to his prayer and supplications multiple times (vs. 29, 30 and 52). He asked for forgiveness (vs. 30) although no sin had yet occurred, but when these do…
• When man sins against his neighbor > God would judge, condemn (punish) wickedness & bring righteousness (vs. 31-32)
• When because of Israel’s sin they are punished (note these are foreshadows to what is ahead for Israel)…
• are defeated by their enemy - IF they turn, confess, pray THEN God would hear, forgive & bring them back to their land (vs. 33-34)
• have no rain - IF they pray, confess , turn THEN God would send rain (vs. 35-36)
• endure famine and sickness - IF they pray for that affliction THEN God hear, forgive and act accordingly (vs. 37-39)
• are delivered to their enemies and taken captive – WHEN they pray, repent, turn to Him with all their heart, God would hear, maintain their cause, forgive them, have compassion on them (vs. 46-50)
4. Asked God hear and grant the prayers of foreigners so that God would be glorified (vs. 41-43)
5. Asked for protection when Israel prays before going into battle (vs. 44-45)

We can apply this to our prayer life…(1) Praise God (2) Pray His Word in what you ask (3)Pray for Forgiveness (4) Pray God will be Glorified in what you ask (5) Ask for His Protection

After this prayer, Solomon rose and a fire from heaven came to earth, consumed the offering and the glory of the Lord filled the Temple (2 Chron. 7:1) in the form of a visible cloud. The cloud was a visible representation of the glory of the Lord, other scripture supports this: In Exodus 24:16-17 “the glory of the LORD rested on Mount Sinai in the form of the cloud. But to all Israel His glory on top of the mount appeared like a consuming fire.” When the LORD appeared to Moses in Exodus 34:5-7, He was in the cloud. There is a parallel between 1 Kings 8:11 and Exodus 40:33-38 concerning how the LORD’s glory filled it in the form of the cloud and when Jesus, became flesh, He was the embodiment of the glory of the LORD as His only begotten Son. (John 1:1-2, 14) He dwelt among men, just as God had in the tabernacle and in the temple.

When God’s presence came upon them, the people fell on their faces and worshiped God.  Solomon asked that the Lord be with Israel as He had been with their fathers and that the Lord not forsake them (vs. 57)Remember our bodies are the Temple of God, He dwells in us and He never leaves or forsakes us.

 Question to Ponder: Israel made sacrifices to the Lord, they blessed the king and went to their tents joyfully and glad of heart (vs. 62-66). They were living their lives according to God’s plan and they were full of joy. What needs to be different in your life so that you are full of joy?

Inside of Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 6 & 7)

In the midst of building God’s House, the Lord sent word to Solomon: IF you will walk in My statues, and execute My ordinances and keep all My commandments by walking in them, then I will…dwell among the sons of Israel and will not forsake My people; this is a reiteration of 1 Kings 2:4; 3:14. God actually dwelled in this magnificent structure Solomon built.

Again I have included below a color version of Solomon's Temple found on page 25 of your book, Walking Faithfully with God:

The Temple’s dimensions (given in 1 Kings 6:2-3) were 60 cubits (L) X 20 cubits (W) X 30 cubits (H) [1 cubit = 18-20 inches]; therefore, it was 90 feet (L) X 30 feet (W) X 45 feet (H). It had a “porch” on the front (1 Kings 6:3 and 2 Chron 3:4) that was 20 cubits X 20 cubits (or 30 feet X 30 feet). The windows had artistic frames (1 Kings 6: 4)

• It was built of stone that was prepared at the quarry; no hammering took place in it (1 Kings 6:7). Wood covered stone; then the wood was carved in the shapes of gourds and flowers (1 Kings 6:18) and overlaid with gold (1 Kings 6:21) and precious stones (2 Chron 3: 6). Why Wood and Gold...Gold represents deity while Wood represents humanity, this is the place where humanity met deity.
• The doorway was on the right side (1 Kings 6:8); this was the east side. Again there was significance for an east reference: The Garden of Eden had an eastern entrance (Gen 3:24), Jesus will come from the East (Is. 41:1-2), the eastern star led the men to the baby Jesus (Mt. 2:2, 9). God may have had countless reasons for choosing the east as the entrance to His presence, but surely not the least of this is that His perfect light interrupts the darkness every morning from the east.

The Main Room as referred to in 2 Chron. 3:5 & 1 Kings 6:17 was 40 (L) X 20 (W) OR 60 feet X (L) 30 feet (W). It was the first room after passing through the 2 pillars one on each side of the entrance that were 35 cubits or 52 ½ feet tall. They each had a name the one of the left was Boaz – which means “in it is strength” the one on the right Jachin – which means “He shall establish” (2 Chron. 3:17). It had 4-sided doorposts made of olive wood and 2 doors of cypress with carvings of cherubim, palm trees and flowers then covered in gold (1 Kings 6:33-35) and walls of cedar with carvings of cherubim, palm trees and flowers then covered in gold (1 Kings 6:29)

• In the Main Room was the Golden Altar (1 Kings 7: 48) was near the entry to the Holy of Holies, used to burn incense. It was covered by cedar and overlaid in gold (1 Kings 6:22)
• Also in the Main room were 10 Golden Tables, 5 on the left and 5 on the right (2 Chron 4:8) on which the bread of presence was (1 Kings 7: 48). The bread was a sign of the everlasting covenant between God and Israel (Lev. 24:8). In Luke 22:14-20, Jesus compares Himself to bread.
• On the 10 Tables were 10 Lampstands, 5 on the left and 5 on the right (2 Chron 4:7) of pure gold to burn in front of the Holy of Holies (2 Chron 4:20). They were made as described in Ex. 25: 31-38, note the flowers were almond blossoms – almond trees were the first to bloom in the spring, the flowers appeared before the leaves. In Numbers 17 Aaron’s staff spouted, budded and produced almond fruit. There were 7 lamps on each lampstand; this is the number of God, the sevenfold attributes of the Spirit of God are described in Is 11:1-2: wisdom, understanding, counsel, might/power, knowledge , fear and the Spirit of the Lord.

The Inner Sanctuary (1 Kings 6:16) or the Holy of Holies (2 Chron. 3:8) was 20 (L) X 20 (W) OR 30 foot cube (30X30X30) had chains of gold across the front of it (1 Kings 6:21) and a veil of violet, purple, crimson and fine linen with cherubim on it (2 Chron. 3:14). These colors signified royalty (violet/purple), sacrifice (crimson) and purity (fine linen). There were 2 doors made of olive wood with carvings of cherubim, palm trees and open flowers overlaid in gold (1 Kings 6:31-32). The walls had carvings of cherubim, palm trees and flowers then covered in gold (1 Kings 6:29).
The Ark of the Covenant would be placed in the Holy of Holies (1 Kings 6:20) – this was the only thing that was transferred from the tabernacle everything else was built by Solomon. Over the Ark , in the midst of the Holy of Holies were 2 cherubim 10 cubits or 15 feet tall; they were made of olive wood and covered in gold(1 Kings 6:27-28). Each had (2) wings 5 cubit or 7 ½ feet wide; the wings of each attached and they sat facing the main room (2 Chron. 3:12) and covered the entire entrance to the Holy of Holies (1 Kings 6:27).

Question to Ponder: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 states that our bodies are God’s temple. It is our responsibility of the believer is to glorify God in his body. Solomon wanted the house of God’s to be great and wonderful because God is great and wonderful. Because of Jesus, God sees us just as magnificent as Solomon’s Temple. Do you view yourself that way or are you always looking at your faults? How can we glorify God with our body (His Temple)?

Outside of Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 6 & 7)

Solomon built God’s House according to the instructions God gave Moses in Exodus 27 for the Tabernacle. It was built in Jerusalem on Mt. Moriah (2 Chron. 3:3); this is where the Lord appeared David, also where Abraham went to Sacrifice Isaac (Gen 22:2) and from where Jesus as ascended into heaven (Acts 1) as well as where he will step back down onto Earth (Rev 19). Building began 480 years after the exodus from Egypt in the 4th year of Solomon’s reign. It took 7 years to complete it.

We will look at what is recorded in 1 Kings 6 & 7 as well as 2 Chronicles 3 & 4 about Solomon’s Temple. I will include some comparisons to the Tabernacle and see how they point to Jesus. To begin we will start with the courtyard outside of the Temple. There were 3 furnishings outside of the Temple, after we have examined them we walk through the temple. The picture below is a color version of the one you will find on page 25 of your book, Walking Faithfully with God. I have noted the 3 outside furnishings.

#1 The Bronze Altar was almost the same size as the Holy of Holies but only 10 cubits or 15 feet tall. This is where the sacrifices would take place; where the blood was shed. It is what replaced the “Altar of Sacrifice” in the tabernacle. It is where Adonijah and Joab ran and grabbed the horn when they were in fear for their lives earlier in 1 Kings.

#2 Bronze Laver on Oxen was where the priest would wash their hands and feet (see Ex 29:4; 30:19). The idea of clean hands and feet was not new we see God telling Moses to take off his sandals because of him standing on holy ground in Ex 3:1-5, Jesus washed his disciples feet in Jn. 13:1-17 and Ps 24:3-6 promises a blessing to clean hands and a pure heart.

• The Bronze Laver was a circular shape 10 cubits or 15 feet wide and 5 cubits or 7 ½ feet tall with a brim like a cup with 2 rows of gourds like a lily blossom. 12 oxen encircled it facing outward and the laven rested on their backsides – 3 faced north, 3 east, 3 south and 3 west. (2 Chron 4:2-5)
• 2 Chron 4:6 says it holds 3,000 baths where 1 Kings 7:26 says 2,000. The Bible Knowledge Commentary suggests that, “Perhaps the best reconciliation is that the Sea had a capacity of 3,000 baths but actually contained only 2,000.”

#3 Bronze Stands with Bronze Basins were on each side of the Temple; this is where the utensils and tools used during the burn offerings were washed (1 Kings 7: 38-39). There were a total of 10, 5 on each side of the Temple.

• The bronze stands had ornate designs of borders between frames, on the borders were lion, oxen and cherubim, on the frames above the borders were pedestals and wreaths were below. (1 Kings 7: 28-29) The stands had 4 wheels (1 Kings 7: 30) like chariot wheels (1 Kings 7: 27).
• The stands were 4 cubits wide by 4 cubits long and 3 cubits tall; the basins, inside of the stands, held 40 baths (1 Kings 7: 39)

Question to Ponder:  The outer court had one furnishing where the blood was spilled and 2 for cleansing with water. You would have had to pass by the blood and the water to enter the Temple, the place where the fellowship is sweet. In Jn 19: 34 one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side bringing forth a flow of blood and water.  Have you passed by the blood and the water?

Solomon Gives Back to God & Prepares to Build the Temple (1 Kings 5 & 2 Chron. 2)

Solomon decided to build a house for God and for himself (2 Chron. 2:1). Unlike his father, David, Solomon had being given peace on every side from God (vs. 4). This house would be dedicated to God to burn fragrant incense before Him, set out the showbread continually and offer burn offerings (2 Chron. 2:4).


Solomon contacted Hiram, King of Tyre to get the timber (vs. 6-7) since Hiram had provided it to David and he know Hiram had skilled workers (2 Chron. 2:3). He also requested Hiram send a skilled workman to work in gold, silver, brass, iron and fabrics (2 Chron. 2:7).

Hiram rejoiced at Solomon’s request, proclaimed Solomon’s wisdom (vs. 7) and agreed to send Solomon the wood and workers (2 Chron. 2:13-14). He took the wood down from Lebanon, made it into rafts (vs. 9) sent them by sea to Joppa. Solomon’s workers (see paragraph below) carried the wood to Jerusalem (2 Chron. 2:16). In return Hiram asked Solomon for food: 20,000 kors of crushed wheat, 20,000 kors of barley and 20,000 baths of wine and 20,000 baths of oil (2 Chron. 2:10).

His workers included all 153,600 aliens (they became forced workers) – 70, 000 carried loads, 80, 000 quarried stones in the mountains and 3,600 supervisors (2 Chron. 2:17-18). Adoniram (from 1 Kings 4:6) was over these workers (vs. 14). There were also 3,300 chief deputies over the project (vs. 16).

Question to Ponder: Solomon continues to be blessed as God promised; in his wisdom Solomon used the riches and state of his country both provided by God to glorify the Lord in preparing to build a Temple to worship Him. We should view all we are given as blessings from God and use them as an opportunity to give back to Him. How can we give back to God?

God Blessed Solomon (1 Kings 4)

Solomon walked in God's ways and God blessed Solomon with a vast kingdom that had peace on all sides.  It was so large that he had officials to help run the government.  Solomon’s officials are recorded (vs. 1-6).

Solomon’s Officals:
Azariah, son of Zadok, was the priest (vs. 2)
Elihoreph & Ahijah, sons of Shisha, were the secretaries (vs. 3)
Jehoshaphat, son of Ahilud, was the recorder (vs. 3)
Benaiah, son of Jehoiada, was over the army (vs. 4)
Azdok & Abiathar were priests (vs. 4)
Azariah, son of Nathan, was over the deputies (vs.5)
Zabud, son of Nathan, was a priest and the king’s friend (vs.5)
Ahishar was over the household (vs.6)
Adoniram was over the men forced to labor (vs.6)

Solomon's 12 deputies of Israel are recorded (vs. 7-19) (I have listed the location first then the names in bold followed by any recorded information).  I can't get the map to paste here so if you are interested let me know and I will make you a copy of it.
#1 Hill country of Ephraim > Ben-hur (vs. 8)
#2 Makaz, Shaalbim and Beth-shemesh > Ben-deker (vs. 9)
#3 Arubboth, Sochoh and Hepher > Ben-hesed (vs. 10)
#4 Dor > Ben-abinadab married to Taphath, Solomon’s daughter (vs. 11)
#5 Taanach and Megiddo > Baana, son of Ahilum (vs. 12)
#6 Ramoth-gilean (included 60 great cities) > Ben-geber (vs. 13)
#7 Mahanaim > Ahinadab (vs. 14)
#8 Land of Naphtali > Ahimaaz married to Basemath, Solomon’s daughter (vs. 15)
#9 Asher and Bealoth > Baana, son of Hushai (vs. 16)
#10 Land of Issachar > Jehoshaphat, son of Paruah (vs. 17)
#11 Land of Benjamin > Shimei son of Ela (vs. 18)
#12 Land of Gilead > Geber, son of Uri (vs. 19)

Solomon’s provisions are recorded (vs. 22-28) as well as some of his accomplishments (vs. 29-34): his wisdom was greater than all men before him from the east or Egypt and all came to hear his wisdom (vs. 30-31, 34). He spoke 3,000 proverbs, 1,005 songs (vs. 32) and wisdom of the trees and animals (vs. 33).

Question to Ponder: Solomon’s kingdom grew in size needing officials and deputies to help govern the land. He also grew great in wisdom, both of which were promised to him by God in 1 Kings 3 and 2 Chron 1. God blessed Solomon and He kept His promises. How has God blessed you?

Walking in God's Ways ~ Solomon is granted Wisdom (1 Kings 3 & 2 Chron.1)

Solomon made a marriage alliance with Pharaoh [at that time it was not common for Egyptian pharaohs to intermarry, this was a sign of an alliance between the nations of Egypt and Israel and a sign of Solomon’s unusual esteem.

Solomon then went to the high places at Gibeon and burned incense. At the High Places pagan worship took place (Arnon is referenced in Num 21:28, Baal in Num 22:41 and God told His people to destroy the molten images and high places in Num 33:52).  In addition, he offered sacrifices to the Lord at Gibeon. Then when asleep, the Lord appeared to him:
Solomon was given a promise by David in 1 Kings 2:3 if he would walk in God’s ways, keep His statues, His commandments, His ordinances, and His testimonies according to what is written in the Law of Moses, God would keep a man on the throne of Israel. This promise mirrored God’s promise to Solomon in 1 Kings 3:14, if you walk in My ways, keeping My statues and commandments you will have a long life.

• The word “way” in Hebrew literally means “a road”, figuratively it means “a course of life or mode of action”

The Lord then offered Solomon anything and Solomon chose wisdom and a discerning, understanding heart. God not only gave him wisdom, but wealth and honor as well.

After being granted wisdom, he displayed that wisdom to God when he went to Jerusalem and sacrificed burnt offerings and a peace offering before the Ark of the Covenant. He then displayed his wisdom to his kingdom in the judgment of the 2 harlot women arguing over the baby.

Question to Ponder: It was obviously important for Solomon to walk in God’s ways ~ David said it in chapter 2 and God reiterated it in chapter 3. What does it mean for you to walk in God’s ways?

Solomon's Cleansing of Israel (1 Kings 2)

After Solomon took over as king, David told Solomon to be sure to follow God’s ways, His statues, commandments, ordinances, testimonies and all that was written in the Law. He went on to warn Solomon about 2 individuals, Shimei and Joab; he told Solomon to use wisdom in dealing with them; then David died.

1. Adonijah, Solomon’s brother, tried to have Bathsheba convince Solomon to give him Abishag as a wife (vs. 13-17); his intensions must have been wicked due to the promise Solomon made in vs. 52 of chapter 1 because Solomon was outraged and had Adonijah killed by Benaiah (vs. 25).
2. Abiathar was the priest who supported Adonijah in chapter 1. Solomon dismissed him as the priest just after Benaiah killed Adonijah; Solomon did not kill him due to Abiathar’s service to David (vs. 26-27).
3. Joab was another supporter of Adonijah (1 Kings 1: 7, 19) he also killed 2 members of the army during a time of peace during David's reign (vs. 5). Joab received news that Solomon dismissed Abiathar the priest (vs. 28) and fled to the altar (vs. 29) where he was killed by Benaiah then buried at his house (vs. 34)
4.  Shimei was a Benjamite of Bahurim who cursed David. David promised that he would not kill Shimei (vs. 8). After David’s death Solomon summoned Shimei and told him to build himself a house in Jerusalem but not to cross the brook of Kidron or he would die (vs. 36-37). One of Shimei’s servants ran away and he went after the servant (vs. 39-40). Since Shimei broke his promise to Solomon, Solomon sent Benaiah to kill him (vs. 46)

Solomon headed the warnings and instructions of his father, David and cleansed his kingdom of wickedness and evil men (his brother Adonijah, both of Adonijah’s followers, Joab and Abiathar, as well as Shimei)

A Question to Ponder:  It is important to examine our lives and cleanse ourselves of wickedness and evil; not only is this something that must occur individually but our community and government must do this as well. What areas need to be examined and cleansed in your life?

From David to Solomon (1 Kings1)

David’s son, Adonijah, exalted himself as king and had the assistance of Abiathar the priest and Joab, son of Zeruiah/commander of the army (1 Kings 1:5, 7). He made sacrifices and threw a feast at the king’s table with the king’s sons, Joab and Abiathar (1 Kings 1:25).

Adonijah did not include David, Solomon nor David's faithful servants, Benaiah, Zadok or Nathan (1 Kings 1:8).

• Benaiah, son of Jehoiada was in the army
• Zadok was a priest and
• Nathan a prophet

Nathan and Bathsheba, Solomon's mother, made David aware of this and asked David about the promise he made to Bathsheba concerning Solomon being the next king. David appointed Solomon king and David's men, Benaiah, Zadok and Nathan anointed Solomon king in Gihon (1 Kings 1:29-39). Solomon took his place on David's throne and Benaiah proclaimed a blessing over him stating “may the Lord make Solomon's throne greater than the throne of David”.

Hearing this Adonijah's guests left him; he was alone and terrified so he fled to the altar where Solomon called him. Solomon promised if Adonijah would be a worthy man and show no wickedness he would endure no harm and told Adonijah to return to his house (1 Kings 1:52-53).

1 Kings 1 sets the tone of the book of Kings, we immediately see God's sovereignty ~ God chose Solomon to be the next king after David and promised it through David's promise to Bathsheba.  It was fulfilled when David appointed him and his men anointed Solomon King of Israel. No evil planned by men can stop God's plan. We also see God’s mercy foreshadowed in Solomon’s actions when he sent his brother away safely, giving him another chance if he would not be wicked.

A Question to Ponder…Solomon and Bathsheba must have felt like everything was out of control when Adonijah was the self-appointed king.  What situations cause you to feel like everything is out of control or do you trust in a sovereign God who has your best interest in mind?

Welcome!!

Hello all!! This blog is where I will post notes from the lessons each week. You may want to sign up to “follow it” so that when I post updates you will be notified via emailed. After you have completed your studies, please feel free to add comments; I would love for this to be a venue for us to be able to share insights we have gleaned from God's Word.

I pray a special blessing on each of you as we embark on this journey together through the history of Israel's kings and prophets. Take special note of those who did what was right in their own eyes and evil in God's eyes...those who sought after godly wisdom and those who were more concerned with worldly "wisdom". Please let me know how I can help you.

Blessings,
Ellen