Study together · The Cast

Solomon

The wisest man in Israel, who knew better and drifted anyway.

The story

1. Named beloved 2 Samuel 12:24-25

   Born after David's sin and the death of his first son. The LORD sends word through Nathan that he loves this child.

2. Crowned in a crisis 1 Kings 1:32-2:46

   Adonijah tries to take the throne. Solomon is anointed, then secures power by removing Adonijah, Joab, and Shimei.

3. Asks for wisdom 1 Kings 3:5-14

   God offers him anything. He asks for an understanding mind to govern well, and God is pleased.

4. Dedicates the temple 1 Kings 8:22-61

   He prays that heaven cannot contain God, yet asks God to hear from this house. The high point of his life.

5. Gold, horses, wives 1 Kings 10:14-11:3

   His wealth grows past every king. So do his horses from Egypt and his 700 wives, all against the law for kings.

6. Heart turned away 1 Kings 11:4-13

   In old age his wives turn his heart to other gods. God says the kingdom will be torn, but keeps a tribe for David's sake.

Key verses

“Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil” 1 Kings 3:9 (ESV)

Read together: 2 Samuel 12:24-25 · 1 Kings 1:32-2:46 · 1 Kings 3:5-14 · 1 Kings 8:22-61 · 1 Kings 10:14-11:3 · 1 Kings 11:4-13

Questions to sit with

1. Where do you know the right thing clearly but feel a slow pull the other way?
2. What good gift in your life could become the thing that turns your heart?

Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible, © 2001 by Crossway. Used by permission.