1 Kings
Ahab Defeats The Assyrians
The scene now switches temporarily from Elijah to an account of Ahab’s reign. This chapter begins with the first of three battles over Samaria. These are between Ahab and Ben-hadad, king of Israel’s northern neighbor. This Syrian leader, Ben-hadad, was greedy for lan …
Solomon Petitions God For His People
In this whole prayer (vv. 23-53) Solomon called on God, who had been faithful to His promises in the past, to continue to be faithful to his people in the future. Solomon prayed for needs with confidence that those who sinned, were defeated, and those who had need would bring the …
Rehoboam’s evil reign in Judah
Jeroboam’s reign in the northern kingdom of Israel actually covered the same period of time as the reigns of Rehoboam, Abijam and the beginning of Asa’s rule in the southern kingdom of Judah. each ruler of Judah is introduced by reference to his age at accession, the numb …
Shimei Executed
Shimei first appeared in Scripture throwing rocks and cursing as David’s army was fleeing from Absalom. David’s men wanted to kill him on the spot (II Sam. 16:5-13) but his execution was delayed, probably because of all that David was facing at the moment in view of Absalom’s …
Jezebel’s Plot
Directed by Jezebel the men of Naboth’s city carried out her plans by accusing Naboth of blasphemy and having him stoned to death outside the city (vv. 11-14). Then Jezebel announced to Ahab that he could take possession of Naboth’s vineyard because he was now dead. Immediate …
Nadab’s Evil Reign in Israel
This passage of scripture now returns to the history of Israel. The heir apparent to Israel’s throne, Abijah, had died in childhood. Therefore, his brother Nadab ascended to the throne. His reign lasted for less than two years (vv. 25-32). He continued the policies begun by his …
The Temples Interior
In this passage a description of the inside of the temple is given. The cherubim were sculptured angels, carved from olive wood. Their wings were spread 30 feet and they were covered with gold (vv. 23-28). The walls of the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place were decorated with …
Elijah’s Mt Carmel Victory
On the day appointed a great crowd gathered on Mount Carmel (v. 20). Mount Carmel, which was agreed on by Ahab, was a fitting location since it lay between Israel and Phoenicia, the lands of the Gods in question. Also Mount Carmel was regarded by the Phoenicians as the sacred d …
Solomon Brings The Ark to The Temple
Chapter eight shares the climax of Solomon’s accomplishments and the dedication of the temple. The verses today recount the period of “moving in” (vv. 1-21). The most important item after all the new furnishings and utensils had been put in place was the Ark of the Cov …
A Lion Kills The Man of God
The old prophet announced the fate of the younger prophet (vv. 20-22). He had disobeyed the Lord’s command and God’s judgement would be severe. The severity of this judgement was due to the importance of this young man’s mission. Even though the old prophet had sinned, the w …