12 April

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1 Kings 1-2

1 Kings 1

The two Books of Kings appear in the Hebrew Bible as one. Together they practically cover the whole period of kingly rule over the ancient people. The first Book deals mainly with events centering around two persons, Solomon and Elijah.

The opening verses of this chapter give the account of the days of David's feebleness. These days created the opportunity for rebellion under Adonijah. A remarkable statement concerning the training of this son of David throws light on his action (1 Kings 1:6). It may be that the bitterness of his sorrow over Absalom was the cause of his foolish indulgence of Adonijah.

As a result of this rebellion Solomon was crowned before the passing of David. Thus, while the life of David was shadowed to the last, the satisfaction of seeing the divine will carried out in the accession to the throne of Solomon was granted to him.

Solomon's action toward Adonijah was characteristic of the best side of his nature, in which clemency and dignified authority were alike manifest. From the beginning of the story of Solomon it is well to remember he was the child of Bathsheba and David. In some sense, therefore, his inheritance was against him; but it is equally true that he inherited excellences as well as defects. Moreover, what was of greater value was that God was ever on his side when he answered the call of the good within him. Had he completely yielded it he would have found sufficient strength to overcome the evil.

1 Kings 2

In the last charge of David there was first a recognition of the sphere of Solomon's safety. In all probability his personal influence had been great with his son, but now he was going "the way of all the earth." Great responsibilities would devolve upon that son. There was, however, a path of safety. It was absolute loyalty to God. One can imagine how, as David urged this upon his son, his own experience of disobedience would add weight and urgency to all he said.

The remainder of the charge of David, especially concerning Joab and Shimei, has been severely criticized. Much of this criticism would cease if certain simple things were borne in mind. It may be well to state them. First, David knew these men by experience, and appreciated their danger to the state. Second, he had kept his covenant with them, and spared their lives. Third, and this is to be especially noted, he left the matter of how to deal with them in the hands of Solomon. Finally, his words concerning the death of each are in all probability prophetic rather than vindictive.

With Solomon began, in some senses, the most splendid period in Israel's history. The splendor, however, was largely mental and material. The spiritual is noticeably absent. The acts in which he dealt with the leading men in the kingdom in whose hearts were the impulses of treachery were characterized by clemency and yet firmness. Adonijah's request for Abishag must be considered in the light of Eastern custom. Solomon saw in the request a movement toward rebellion, and therefore Adonijah was also slain. Abiathar was deposed from the priesthood. To Shimei an opportunity of life was granted on certain well-defined conditions. He broke his parole, and paid the penalty.