1 Kings #03: an exposition of 1 Kings 3:1-28. This message by Pastor Rod Harris was delivered at Trinity Baptist Church on Sunday evening, January 25, 2015.
Intro:
His wisdom is renown. It’s proverbial, “The wisdom of Solomon.” He was a great king in Israel. He reigned during the “golden age” of Israel’s dominance. Foreign dignitaries sought him out. World leaders praised him. Yet he was a frail child of dust along with the rest of us. This wise man was often very foolish. The presence of God with us and the work of the Spirit of God in us does not mean that we always do the right or godly thing. Yes we are image bears but sometimes that image is marred. Some times the picture of God represented in us is distorted. At other times we are splendid examples and accurate portrayals of God’s glory. We are a mixed bag. This evening I want us to learn a few lessons from a new king. Our text is found in 1 Kings chapter 3.
Text: 1 Kings 3:1-28
David is dead.
Solomon is king.
There were some questionable things done in chapter 2.
Why didn’t David handle some of that while he was in power?
Were Solomon’s acts due to spiritual wisdom or political expediency?
Now we come to chapter 3. There are a few introductory remarks that set the historical context. That is followed by God’s asking the new king what gifts he would like. Then we have an example of Solomon’s new found wisdom. As we explore this text I want to point to three lessons we learn from the new king.
- Political shrewdness does not equate with spiritual prudence. (3:1-3)
- When given the choice seek the good of God’s people rather than person gain. (3:4-15)
- The goal of a righteous life is that others take note of God’s work in us. (3:16-28)
Conclusion:
Was Solomon a good king?
Yes.
Was he a fallen son of Adam?
Yes.
Did he at times gloriously reveal the character of God?
Yes.
Did he at times fail miserably?
Yes.
Such is our lot as we strive toward holiness, pressing toward the mark of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.