INTRODUCTION TO 1 & 2 KINGS
1 and 2 Kings describe the history of Israel's monarchy from the closing days of King David until the Babylonian Exile. King Saul died in defeat and disgrace, and after seven years, David became king of the united kingdom. His son Solomon presided over the golden age of Israel (1 Kings 1-11), and sowed seeds that produced the fruit of destruction. The kingdom was divided during the reign of Rehoboam, son of Solomon (1Ki 12; 930 BC), and Israel's history separates to flow in two streams: Israel (north) and Judah (south). The writer contrasts and compares Israel and Judah by intertwining their histories. The monarchy in Israel is characterized by frequent violent dynastic changes. Twenty rulers representing nine dynasties ruled for about 210 years--until the fall of Samaria (722 BC). In Judah there were about 20 kings, but they retained the dynastic continuity of David's line until the Exile (586 BC). The kings of Israel were, without exception, wicked. They followed the policies of Jeroboam, the king who caused Israel to sin (14:16;15:26; 16:2; 13,19, etc.). The kings of Judah were measured against King David. Some were godly men, but most of them fell short of David's standard.
Both nations failed because of idolatry--spiritual adultery. When God's hand of protection was removed, the Assyrians conquered Northern Israel (722 BC), and the Babylonians conquered Jerusalem 200 years later (586BC). The spiritual giants of the kingdom period were the prophets. Elijah and Elisha prophesied in Northern Israel during one of its darkest times. The prophets fit into the framework of the history of Israel and Judah. They called the nation to repent and turn back to God.
1. Adonijah sets himself up as king (1-27)
King David was old and seemingly impotent. Everyone thought that he was too old to know what was going on. His handsome son, Prince Adonijah, decided to make himself king. His father had never disciplined him nor questioned what he did, so he anticipated no difficulty. Furthermore, he had the support of powerful men like General Joab.
2. Bathsheba's faith and courage (28-53)
In Jesus' genealogy (Mt 1) Bathsheba is identified as one who 'had been Uriah's wife.' She reminds us of God's mercy and forgiveness. She had four sons by David. He had promised her that her son Solomon would be his successor. She had not been close to David for a long time. But when Nathan the prophet told her about the political intrigue, and what she must do, she overcame her fear and pride and went to David. David appointed Solomon as his successor. Solomon rode into Jerusalem on David's mule and was crowned king.
Application: Lord, help me to overcome pride and act with courage and in faith. Raise up men and women who can change history.
One Word: One woman's faith and courage