1 Kings 10 (Cf. 2 Chronicles 9)
Verses 1-13 parallels 2 Chronicles 9.1-12. The Queen of Sheba’s visit is presented. Many believe Sheba to be a country north or east of modern day Yemen, bordering the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. However, it was also a dual kingdom, which crossed the Red Sea into Ethiopian territory. From whatever side she came, the Queen and her entourage traveled more than 1,400 miles to visit Solomon. Hers was a strong kingdom, gaining power and wealth from Arab traders.
The Queen of Sheba had opportunity to watch Solomon deal with his people and with his God. This was a great witness to her. As the end of verse five presents, she was speechless. Yet it comes after Solomon’s worship, and not his wealth. The Queen went back to give testimony of Solomon’s greatness. Nevertheless, it appears, she also testified of the greatness of Solomon’s God too. It is possible that many converts were made due to this encounter. We read of the Ethiopian eunuch in the book of Acts (Acts 8.25-40). After this encounter we also read of countless numbers of Ethiopians helping God’s people.
Are people going home to tell their family and friends about you or about your God?
Verses 14-29 presents Solomon’s wealth and parallels 2 Chronicles 9.13-28. He received more than twenty-five tons a year in gold as an income. When you read the passage it appears as though gold was running down the streets it was so common. It appears he also had a zoo.
Solomon disregarded God’s commands about horses and trading with Egypt (Deuteronomy 17.16). In one phrase he did both for he was a horse trader with Egypt. These verses, 26-29, lead into chapter 11 and Solomon’s downfall.
What will lead to your downfall? What one area in your life are you overlooking or disregarding from God’s Word that you know you should follow but you are walking away from (James 4.17)?
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