Solomon – Old Testament Survey

1 Kings 9

Verses 1-9 parallel 2 Chronicles 7.12-22 except for the addition by the writer of the Chronicles of verses 12-18. Second Chronicles does provide an explanation of verses one in the chapter. All that Solomon desired is defined as the two buildings that he built (the Temple and his compound 2 Chronicles 7.11).

God offers two types of promises or covenants in these verses, as was explained in 2 Chronicles 7.12-22. These are conditional and unconditional. For an explanation of these see our discussion in 2 Samuel 7 and Psalm 27.

God appears to Solomon for the second time (see 1 Kings 3.4-15). There are no details, merely the statement. It seems as though God spoke to him through a dream; in other words, there was no audible voice of God. God gives Solomon assurance that He has heard Solomon’s prayers. His answer is the unconditional covenant of a ruler on the throne. God then informs Solomon of the conditional covenant He has made with those He has chosen and created from the beginning of time (i.e., Deuteronomy 28.36–37 and29.24ff.). You obey and God will bless. You disobey and God will chastise. It is interesting in what we see in Israel today. We do not see the Temple. What we see is the Mosque of Omar, which is really the Dome of the Rock. Is this God’s promises fulfilled in judgment?

Verses 10-28 parallel 2 Chronicles 8. What is found in these verses are the buildings and other activities in which Solomon was involved. A reference to corvée is presented again (see our explanation of this in 1 Kings 5). This chapter details cities and strategies of Solomon.

Will God be blessing you today or disciplining you today?

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1 Kings 8

1 Kings 8 (Cf. 2 Chronicles 5.1-7.11)

1-13-The Ark of the Covenant is brought into the Temple as are the two stone tablets containing the Ten Commandments. Verses 10-12 present the glory of God coming into the Temple. The glory of God has been with the Israelites since God called them in Exodus. He went before them in the Wilderness, visited them at Sinai, and would dwell with them until Ezekiel 10.18-19. He will pay a brief visit in the flesh (John 1.14), dwell within man (John 14.16-17), and will come again in the Kingdom (Revelation 21.2-3).

14-21-Solomon reminds the people of God’s faithfulness to His promise, covenant, with David and with all Israel.

22-53-Solomon constantly reminds Israel through this prayer that God dwells in Heaven, though He dwells in the Temple. He is also reminding Israel that all they have is still God’s and they are merely stewards or managers of what He has given. These two principles are necessary for our understanding of accomplishing God’s task. God is greater than we can imagine (Ephesians 3.20-21, cf. with verse 56). Although He indwells us through the Holy Spirit, we should never make Him commonplace as much of the current theology attempts to do when they describe Him as a friend who is hugging and kissing us. If you would like further discussion on this topic, please respond to this post. We are the managers of what God has given us. He owns it all, we are to take care of it and do as He would with it. When we get this mentality, our perspective on giving and life changes dramatically.

Verse 46 is a great reminder that we all sin and that we all need God to help us overcome our sin. What is your sin that causes you to stumble and fall (Galatians 6.1-3 and Hebrews 12.1-2)?

54-61-Solomon then blesses Israel with a reminder that God is with them.

62-66-The dedication ends with a joyful celebration; dare I say party?

When you read this long chapter, do you see elements of this in your personal daily worship and weekly corporate worship? If so, celebrate; if not, try to incorporate aspects of it this week.

A thought to ponder: though Solomon’s Temple was magnificent and beautiful, it was merely another building until God came. Our lives are just another life, our churches are just another church, until God comes in. It is at this point when these ordinary things become super-ordinary not because of what they are but because of Who chose them.

Another thought: Trace “heart” through this chapter and you will notice that we know what is in our heart (38), though we attempt to conceal it from others. God knows our heart (39), we cannot conceal anything from Him. In order to come to Him, it must be with all our heart (48). When we do, God gives us the ability to obey His Word (58). All this because this is a goal of God for our lives (61).

An example of prayer from Solomon

Praise and worship (22-25)
Revelation of self in God’s presence (26-30)
Requests for forgiveness sins (31-40)
Requests for the Lord to be merciful to those who seek Him (41-43)
Prays for victory (44-45)
Restoration when they sin (46-53)

1 Kings 4

Verses 1-6 are a listing of Solomon’s administrators.

A major sin of Solomon is found in verse six. He uses forced labor, not only from conquered countries but from Israel. We will discuss this at length when we cover 1 Kings 5.13-14 (see our study).

The Word in Life Study Bible (1997) created the following chart

Name	Position	Responsibilities
Azariah the son of Zadok	High priest	Oversaw worship and religious rituals, representing the people to God.
Elihoreph and Ahijah, the sons of Shisha	Scribes	Similar to secretaries of state or chancellors (1 Kings 4.22–23; 11.3).
Adoniram the son of Abda	Manager of the labor force	Oversaw Solomon’s numerous construction projects (1 Kings 5.13; 7.1–8; 9.15–19).
Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud	Recorder	Maintained written historical records of the king’s business and decisions.
Benaiah the son of Jehoiada (see 1 Kings 2.29)	Military commander	Oversaw the nation’s defenses, including its storage and chariot cities; led the army in military engagements; handled royal police matters (for example, 1 Kings 2.28–35).
Zadok and Abiathar	Priests	Oversaw religious matters and served as custodians of the Law.
Azariah the son of Nathan	General	Carried out the military orders of Solomon and Benaiah.
Zabud the son of Nathan	Personal confidant	Consulted with the king on personal matters.
Ahishar	Manager of Solomon’s household	Oversaw the palace complex and the needs of Solomon’s extensive court (1 Kings 4.22–23; 11.3).
Adoniram the son of Abda	Manager of the labor force	Oversaw Solomon’s numerous construction projects (1 Kings 5.13; 7.1–8; 9.15–19).

Verses 7-19 are a listing of Solomon’s governors.

In both of these, Solomon realized that he was unable to do all things, so he created a leadership team that would support him. The twelve division of governors are displayed in the map of the growth of Israel under Solomon and his reapportioning of Israel.

Verses 20-21 are added to signify the era of peace and prosperity that God introduced through Solomon. It is also given to provide a word of fulfillment of God’s word to Abraham. That word, from Genesis 22.17, states that the descendants of Abraham would be as numerous as the grains of sand on the shore. The borders stretching to Egypt was also a prophecy and a promise given to Abraham in Genesis 15.18.
Verses 22-28 depict his kingdom, wealth, and military. As for his horsemen, read Deuteronomy 17.16. Verse 24 describes the zenith of Solomon’s reign.
Verses 29-34 display the worldwide fame Solomon and wisdom. He wrote most of the Proverbs. His songs are contained in Psalm 72 andPsalm 127 along with the Song of Solomon. He also wrote the lyrical book of Ecclesiastes. His name became synonymous with wisdom (Matthew 12.42).

The four names that appear here are listed as descendants of Judah in 1 Chronicles 2.6, and two of the men, Ethan and Heman, appear in the superscriptions of Psalm 88 and Psalm 89.

1 Kings 3

These verses display the wisdom of Solomon. What should catch your attention is that the lowest of the low had access to Solomon. How do you display the insight God through His indwelling Spirit and His Word give to you?

1 Kings 3

Verses 1-4

Although this chapter is normally presented as Solomon’s wisdom, yet it begins with the beginning of Solomon’s troubles. Verse one tells us that Solomon married an Egyptian woman for the sake of a political alliance. Although this confirms his ranking as a world-leader, it still violated two commands given by God. The first was not to marry people who worshiped other gods and the second was not to make political alliances with other nations but to trust in God. Verses 2-3 are no better. The nation is worshiping God on the forbidden places, which are the high places, and Solomon is joining them. Although the following passages deal with the people of Canaan and not Egypt, the principles still apply. So, read Exodus 34.12-16, Deuteronomy 7.1-6, and 17.16-17 to gain insight into what Solomon was doing. Some state that Solomon broke no law of God because his wife was not Canaanite and there was no other place to worship God so the people were creative in their places (Spence-Jones, 2004). With this reasoning almost anything can receive justification. What we do notice from these three verses is Solomon’s love for God is not balanced with his knowledge of God at this point. He worshiped and did what he thought was best, not what Scriptures instructed. He needed to take every thought and deed captive (2 Corinthians 10.4-6). Verse three even indicates the writer of 1 Kings knew this was wrong. After mentioning Solomon’s love for God, he places an “except” before the next clause. We notice in 1 Kings 11.1-13 the result of doing such things. Although the ark and the tabernacle were in Jerusalem, a place of true worship was established in Gibeon, the nation along with Solomon worship where and how they pleased. God only spoke to Solomon when he went before the Lord in the correct manner.

Verses 5-15

Solomon was not as young as verse seven appears to make him. Rabbis have him at twelve or fourteen. However, we find that his son Rehoboam takes the throne when he is forty-one after Solomon had reigned for forty years (1 Kings 11.42 and 14.21). Rehoboam would have been a year old when Solomon began his reign, either as co-regent with David or as regent by himself. Either way, Solomon would be twenty or so at this point. His statement implies humility and lack of experience more than age.

Solomon’s request for God is wisdom in dealing with national matters. God was pleased with this request and granted him the request along with riches and long-life (as long as he obeyed God). The parameter of the answer is interesting. Solomon would be the wisest person to ever live but would only be the wealthiest of his time. Solomon then returns to Jerusalem to worship God.

Today we have opportunity to boldly approach God (Hebrews 4.14-16) knowing we have our requests answered when they are in alignment with His Word and will (1 John 5.13-15). We also have Christ, who is the essence of wisdom and knowledge, indwelling us (Colossians 2.3). So, what are we doing with this great privilege?

Verses 16-28

1 Kings 2

Any morals here? Compromises need to be taken care of sooner than later.

1 Kings 2

These last words of David to his son Solomon are intriguing. When I thought I was to die, I gave my last words to my oldest son. They were,

Joshua, lead our family in the ways of God. Continue to trust Him in all you do. He will guide you into all that is good and right; follow Him. Protect your sister throughout her years with the love of God. His love guides and protects us, we need to do the same for others. I look forward to seeing what God is doing in your life. As I look from Heaven to see my oldest son, I desire to see a man of God changing the world for Him. Press on in His Word!

David’s were a little different. He gave the words of encouragement we would expect him to give. He had done this previous in 1 Chronicles too. He gives the same advice Moses gave to Joshua, be strong and of good courage for God is with you as you follow Him. Good advice for all of us.

What is intriguing is the next bit of advice. He gives Solomon some names and then advises him to act wisely in the matter. With Joab and Shimei his implication was to kill them. With Barzillai his advice was to honor him. These choices and decisions Solomon was to make were intended to give him a strong start in his reign. He needed to know what intrigue there was in the court and needed to establish his reign as just and swift. We will see how he goes exacts just and swift retribution in this chapter.

David dies. Solomon follows David’s advice and establishes his throne. He wisely executes three people. Adonijah, his brother, Joab, his general, and Shimei were all executed by their own words.

Adonijah was warned in our previous study (1 Kings 1) not to attempt to usurp the throne again or he would die. His words in verses 13-18 seem innocent enough. However, because Abishag lay with David, although not in a sexual manner, she was given the rights of a wife. So, whoever married her would have the right to claim the throne. This innocent request, if granted, would give Adonijah the right to the throne. Solomon saw this and put him to death for breaking his promise from chapter 1.49-53. Benaiah executed Adonijah.

To fulfill the prophecy given in 1 Samuel 2.31-35, Solomon banishes Abiathar but does not kill him.

Joab, in fear for his life, runs to the safety of the altar as did Adonijah in 1 Kings 1. Because of Joab’s killing of Abner 2 Samuel 3 and Amasa in 2 Samuel 20, Solomon orders his execution. Benaiah executed Joab at the altar.

Solomon gave Shimei opportunity to live if he stayed in Jerusalem. He agreed. Three years later, thinking Solomon forgot, he left Jerusalem. The terms were if Shimei stayed in Jerusalem, he would live; if he left, he would die. He left. Shimei hears Benaiah’s footsteps. Benaiah executed Shimei.

Any morals here? Compromises need to be taken care of sooner than later.

1 Kings 1

All through this chapter is intrigue. God’s will or Satan’s will. Which will will prevail? God designated Solomon to succeed David. Satan desired Adonijah. God wins (but you knew that).

1 Kings 1

The book of 1 Kings opens with great intrigue. David is old, about seventy-two, and his sons are vying for power. David is not well. A young woman is innocently introduced to the audience. She will provide Solomon with a powerful kingdom. Adonijah attempts to usurp the throne. Nathan and Bathsheba become concerned about Solomon, the next king as God told David and as David had promised Bathsheba.

Verses 1-4 express the feebleness of the king. Some have conjectured that David was impotent and would not be able to rule. So they placed a young girl in his bed to arouse him sexually. When this did not occur, David’s rule was over in the mind of the Israelites (Rice, 1990, p 8; Henry, 1996; Elwell, 1995). Although fanciful, I do not agree with this proposition. David was stricken with old age and, according to Josephus, had hypothermia or arteriosclerosis. He was cold at night. In order to keep him comfortable, a young, warm body was placed next to him. He did not know her sexually not because he was unable to but because that was not the purpose. Radmacher (1999) explains that a healthy person’s body warmth was used to care for a sick person as a medical procedure is noted by the second-century Greek physician Galen and the Jewish historian Josephus. This process is diathermy, the process of passing heat from one object to another. The key to this passage is that she lay in the same bed as the king, which makes her a valuable commodity in this and the next chapter.

Verses 5-10 present us with Adonijah’s first attempt to become king. Because David was old and not physically capable of ruling the kingdom, David’s fourth son, Adonijah attempts a coupe. He draws men like Joab and Abiathar to follow him, while he purposely does not call for Nathan or Benaiah. He made a rather loud and public proclamation that he was the next king. He even engaged a coronation ceremony at En-rogel.

A note on child-rearing is given here. David did nothing to get his children angered at him. This is evident from the lack of discipline he showed to Amnon, Absalom, and Adonijah when the Amon raped Absalom’s sister and Absalom killed Amnon, and none were disciplined. When this freedom is given, children have no boundaries.

Verses 11-27 develops the plot by Nathan and Bathsheba to remind David what God had told him about Solomon. Nathan calls Bathsheba to let her know what Adonijah is doing. They immediately go tell David what is happening. David’s infirmities are evident as Abishag is with him (this helps the plot develop for chapter 2). After Bathsheba speaks to David, Nathan enters to state the same.

Verses 28-30 are David’s oath that Solomon will be king. This would make Solomon a co-regent with David. This is why the dating of 1 Kings is difficult.

Verses 31-40 is Solomon’s coronation as king. David gives the instructions, they are carried out, and Adonijah receives word of the newly crowned king.

Verses 41-53 give us the failure of Adonijah’s first attempt to be king. Adonijah realized that he could be put to death by Solomon. He runs to the Temple to lay hold of the refuge given at the altar. Solomon gave his word not to kill Adonijah, if Adonijah does not attempt to usurp the throne. Interestingly, Adonijah dies in the next chapter (read ahead to see if you can figure out why).

All through this chapter is intrigue. God’s will or Satan’s will. Which will will prevail? God designated Solomon to succeed David. Satan desired Adonijah. God wins (but you knew that).

Psalm 127

What we do with our time, finances, and efforts determine the direction of our life and of our family (both present and future). If your time, finances, and effort are based on your desires, your strength, and your understanding, the final outcome may be good but it won’t be great. What are you doing today in light of God’s work and God’s purpose for you?

Psalm 127

This is our first psalm of Solomon or of David for Solomon. He provides wise insight into a home blessed by God. This chapter is also reminiscent of the book of Ecclesiastes.

Verses 1-2-If God is not the foundation of the household it will not become that for which God created the family. If you desire more on the family, please post your request. Workaholics are not meant for God’s work. When we do His work, allow Him to create His family, His life in us, we find that His work is not a burden and His work is productive (Matthew 11.29-30). Verse two provides us insight into the makings of the body. God created the body so that it repairs itself while we sleep. Solomon tells us that God provides for us during our sleep. This can be read as God being at work in our work as we rest and it can also be seen as God working in us to rebuild and strengthen us as we rest. Either picture is wonderful.

These verses should be a warning to those who are in school and cram the night before to complete a project that should have been completed over time. A job done for His glory is done as we are physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually healthy. It does not come in a frenzy.

Zechariah 4.6 directs our attention to this truth. We cannot accomplish greatness apart from Him who is great.

Do your job, your house, your finances take away from the time spent with God, family, and friends? If so, you are building your house on the sand. Jesus reminds us in John 15.5 that we can do nothing apart from Him. What are you trying to do without His strength and understanding?

Verses 3-5-We are called to a great responsibility as parents. God has given us a great and precious gift in our children. If we do not submit our lives to the Lord, and give this example daily to our children, they will not submit to the Lord. Our labor is in vain when we choose our own path. Solomon tells us it leads to destruction.

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1 Chronicles 28

Verse nine is a call for all of us to serve God with all our heart and mind. It is also our call to know what God has called us to do and for us to live our lives and act on that calling (10).

1 Chronicles 28

The detailed plans given to Solomon by David were given by God (19). God has also given us detailed plans for our life. Have you been reading it? As David reminded Solomon that God has a purpose and a plan for his life (20), we are reminded that He has a plan and a purpose for our life (Ephesians 2.8-10).

Verse nine is a call for all of us to serve God with all our heart and mind. It is also our call to know what God has called us to do and for us to live our lives and act on that calling (10).