Heroes: Solomon
Speaker: Matt Hails
Notes
Background
Solomon was the 3rd king of Israel, and the son of David and Bathsheba. He was conceived when David + Bathsheba were married, after their adultery and David's effective murder of her husband, and following David's repentance and forgiveness. Solomon's name probably means “peace” or “peaceful” - which speaks of the peace between God and David after his restoration.
God chose Solomon to succeed David (1 Chronicles 28:6-7). He wasn't David's eldest surviving son, and there was a power struggle around his succession (see 1 Kings 1). However, David confirmed Solomon as his successor, and after David's death, Solomon decisively consolidated his rule (1 Kings 2).
Solomon's Request
1 Kings 3:3 - 15. God's appearance to Solomon was very dramatic, and a great privilege for Solomon. Nevertheless, he reacts with great humility (v7 - 9) and asks for wisdom to govern well. God is pleased (v10), and not only gives him wisdom to govern (v12), but also wisdom in other areas, plus great wealth and honour (v13).
God is keen to give you what you need to fulfil his call on your life. Ask him for what you need!
Descriptions of Solomon's wisdom, wealth and fame: 1 Kings 4:29 - 34; 1 Kings 10:23 - 24.
Example of his wisdom: 1 Kings 3:16 - 28. Point to Jesus amazing wisdom, such as in John 8:1 - 11.
Solomon's Legacy
What legacy did Solomon leave behind? 1 Kings 11:1 - 6 shows his failings. Foreign wives were good politically, but not spiritually. They pulled him away from God.
God's blessing on Solomon's rule was because of David's faithfulness - 2 Sam 7:12,16; 1 Kings 3:6. Yet Solomon's unfaithfulness cost his son the kingdom - 1 Kings 11:11.
Don't assume that God's blessing on your life means you're doing everything right. Let's each examine our own life against God's word. Accept correction from each other.
On the other hand, your faithfulness to God could see blessing on those coming after you. God's blessing lasts a lot longer than his judgement - 1 Kings 11:12 - 13 (compare with Exodus 20:6).
1 Kings 11:6 rates Solomon negatively against David, despite David messing up big time - committing adultery and murder. Yet David repented, followed God again, and consequently passed on a blessing.
Follow God and keep going, even if you mess up on the way. You will leave a legacy of blessing for those coming after you.
Application
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Read 1 Kings 3:3 - 15
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What would you ask for if God appeared to you?
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What does God want you to do with your life now?
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What do you need from him in order to fulfil that?
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Pray for each other
Posted: 4 Oct 2009
