Category Archives: Readings

December 3, 2023 – 1 Kings 12 – A Kingdom Divided

Solomon’s son Rehoboam listens to bad counsel from his young advisors. Jeroboam returns and persuades the 10 northern tribes to rebel against Rehoboam, as God had told him through the prophet Ahijah.  Jeroboam sets up two golden calf idols at … Continue reading

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November 26, 2023 – 1 Kings 11 – The Fall and Death of Solomon

King Solomon’s fall from being a wise and righteous ruler to a deluded, foolish, idolatrous doormat to his many wives’ demands is both puzzling and tragic. His sin caused God to later rip away 10 tribes from his son Rehoboam … Continue reading

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November 12, 2023 – 1 Kings 10 – Solomon and the Queen of Sheba

The Queen of Sheba is intrigued by stories of the wisdom and riches of King Solomon, and travels from Yemen to his court. She tests him with riddles, and according to tradition converts to worship the true God. Christian commentators … Continue reading

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October 29, 2023 – 1 Kings 9 – God Replies to Solomon’s Prayer

God replies to Solomon’s prayer at the dedication of the Temple with a warning of the dire consequences of falling away from obedience and going after idols. Notes on 1 Kings 9:1-28  

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October 22, 2023 – 1 Kings 8:12-61 – Solomon’s Prayer

At the dedication of the new Temple, King Solomon addresses the people, focusing on humility, and then offers a prayer invoking God’s acceptance of His new dwelling place and pleading for God to forgive his people when they repent. Notes … Continue reading

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October 15, 2023 – 1 Kings 8:1-11 – The Dedication of Solomon’s Temple

At the time of the Feast of Tabernacles, the Ark is brought into the Holy of Holies, heavenly fire descends to consume the sacrifice and the Shekinah glory fills the Temple, causing the priests to fall down on their faces … Continue reading

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September 10, 2023 – 1 Kings 7 – Hiram the Artisan

King Hiram of Tyre appoints another Hiram – a master builder and artisan – to go to Jerusalem and help Solomon in the construction of the furniture and utensils of the Temple, as well as the two pillars of Boaz … Continue reading

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