1 Kings 01

1 and 2 Kings records all the kings except Saul. It records Jehoichin’s release from Babylonian captivity, so may have been written by an exile, as Ezra or Ezekiel. The historical books are not merely for history, but to preserve spiritual lessons.

v 1-4. David was old, feeble, and apparently had loss of circulation, resulting in him being cold. He has been criticized for having a young virgin to keep him warm instead of one of his wives. However this was a common medical custom of the day and was a therapeutic practice that continued into the middle ages.

v 5. David died at 70 and may have been becoming senile. He certainly should have seen that Adonijah was setting himself up as Absalom did, 2 Sam. 15:1.

v 6. David had been too lenient with all his children, and as yet today, it usually turns out harmful. Several of David’s family were extra good looking, perhaps having  something to do with the wives he chose. Haggith bore Adonijah after Maacah bore Absalom, but he had died, 2 Sam. 18:14,15. Though Solomon was younger, he knew David favored Solomon and God had said that he was to be king, 2:15 and 22:9.

v 7-10. Joab and Abiathar may have thought they would fare better if Adonijah was king. He didn’t invite Solomon, heir to the throne, 1 Chr. 22:9, and his friends to the feast.

v 11-14. Nathan informed Bathsheba of Adonijah’s plans, with the warning that he would probably kill her and Solomon. He instructed her to ask the king why he was letting Adonijah be king, then Nathan would immediately come in to confirm her words. 

v 15-21. She bravely reminded him of his promise to her that Solomon was to be king, but that Adonijah was taking over, that people were watching to see what David would do, and if he did nothing, she and Solomon would be killed after his death.

v 22-27. The words were hardly out of her mouth before Nathan was ushered in and confirmed and enlarged on her statements. Then he tactfully asked if Adonijah was the king’s choice and he had not told him.

v 28-31. David was spurred to action and promised Bathsheba he would attend to the matter that very day.

v 32-37. David was true to his word and took immediate steps to have Solomon crowned king. Open declaration of this was by having Solomon ride the king’s mule. Those who had remained faithful to David were to blow the trumpet and declare Solomon king, following him and causing him to sit on the throne as David ordered.

v 38-40. David’s faithful ones did as directed, Zadok, with Nathan, anointed him with oil, (2nd 1 Chr. 29:22) and the people celebrated with music and joyful shouting. They are at Gihon spring northeast of Jerusalem, preparing for a ride of honor into the city, and the rebel group were likewise at En-rogle spring southeast of Jerusalem. 

v 41-49. Adonijah’s guests had barely finished their feast, which was to celebrate him as king, when the trumpet (official announcement) and gaiety over Solomon could be heard less than a mile away. One of the faithful messengers when David was fleeing, Jonathan, brought word that the cause of the clamor was the anointing of Solomon as king. All the people and David’s servants were rejoicing, and he even bowed in his bed before Solomon. All the guests of Adonijah fled in fear at this report.

v 50-53. Adonijah was in fear for his life and fled to the altar at the Tabernacle (Apparently the altar of burnt offering set up by David when he brought the ark back.) for refuge and hope for mercy. Solomon’s words as much as said, “You can go home and live if you behave yourself”. Adonijah bowed in submission, but see his failure 2:13-25. 

1 Kings 02

v 1. Since David was not well, this probably happened soon after chapter one.

v 2-4. Parental advice to Solomon, be strong, be a man, obey and follow God in truth with all his heart and soul, and God would prosper him and assure the kingdom.

v 5,6. David had obtained great mercy from God, and extended mercy to Joab for his years of faithfulness. However, sin needed to be dealt with as a new reign is begun, so he leaves it to Solomon to use his judgment in Joab’s punishment, v 28-34. Joab isn’t condemned for his personal defection, but for murder of Abner and Amasa.

v 7. Solomon is to continue David’s commitment to Barzillai, 2 Sam. 31-39.

v 8,9. David had been merciful to Shimei in the day of victory, but in his wisdom, Solomon should be prepared to execute him without regard to gray hair, v 36-46.

v 10,11. David died around 70 years of age after reigning 40 years, and was buried in Jerusalem. See 1 Chr. 29:26-30, where three uninspired writings are listed.

v 12. Solomon’s reign is covered in 2:12 to 11:43. This verse is elaborated on in 1 Chr. 29:23-25. He prospered, Israel obeyed him, all princes, mighty men and even the sons of King David submitted to him, and his majesty exceeded that of previous kings.

v 13-18. That Bathsheba was suspicious of Adonijah is seen by her questioning if he came peaceably, but  he convinced her intentions were proper. However, he was subtil in maneuvering to yet get hold of the kingdom. He arrogantly stated that the kingdom was his and that all Israel wanted him, which was hardly true. He admits it was Solomon’s from the Lord, probably he knew that before he tried to take over. So he asks  what seems to her like a simple request, that he could marry the virgin that had kept David warm in his old age. She didn’t realize that the young lady, though still a virgin, was part of David’s harem, and as such, giving her to Adonijah would be conceding that he actually had claim to the throne.

v 19-25. Bathsheba thought this was just a small request, but Solomon saw right through it. As his older brother and ordinarily in line for the throne, Adonijah had just as well asked for the kingdom for himself and his followers. Solomon ordered his immediate execution to stop further insurrection on his part.

v 26,27. Abiathar had probably knowingly gone against God’s choice, but because of previous faithfulness, he was only removed from office, 1 Sam. 2:27-36. It is many times years before what God orders comes to pass.

v 28-34. Though Joab was  not executed for his part in the rebellion, it opened the door to execute him for his previous murders. thus clearing the household of David from any blood guilt. Some people fled to the altar instead of a city of refuge, Num. 35:11, but that could only delay the execution of a deliberate murderer. Joab, as a murderer, could not find mercy at the altar, but refused to leave, so he was slain there.

v 35. The new high priest and leading general are now duly installed.

v 36-46. Shimei was worthy of death for his actions and threats against David, but Solomon gave him a chance to prove himself. All  he had to do was remain only in Jerusalem and his life would be spared. However, when he went to Gath to bring back two servants who had run away, his reprieve was broken. Solomon reminded him of his breech of agreement and his wickedness against David, then had him immediately executed. Solomon’s deposition of his enemies confirmed his kingdom. 

1 Kings 03

v 1. This marriage alliance made peace with Egypt, but it was contrary to what God commanded. God would have made peace without that. Solomon did not build her special house until after he had built his own house, the temple and wall, a period of over 20 years, 6:38-7:8.

v 2. Heathen worshipped on high places thinking they were getting closer to the gods. Moses’ prohibition against high places, Deut. 12:1-4 was not observed until the temple was built. Then it was commanded to worship there, Deut. 12:5, 2 Chr. 7:12.

v 3,4. In general Solomon was still following the Lord. The chief place of offering was still at Gibeon where David assembled all his leaders. This was where the tremendous sacrifice of 1000 animals was made. The ark was in a new tent at Jerusalem, but the bronze altar was still at Gibeon at the old tabernacle 2 Chr. 1:1-4 . From the time of Abraham, sacrifices had been made on high places, so there was nothing wrong with Solomon and the people offering on high places until they had a permanent place of worship. However, God had forbidden it in Lev. 17:3,4 etc. because it would become almost equivalent to heathen worship on high places.

v 5-9. Probably that same night, God appeared to Samuel in a dream, offering anything he would ask. Solomon admitted his inexperience, v 7, (he was about 20) and asked for wisdom in governing this vast number of people.

v 10-15. Since this was such an unselfish request, God promised to make him more wise than any before or after, but He would also give him riches and honor. Further, if he was as obedient as David, he would also have long life. Upon awakening Solomon felt drawn closer to God and offered more offerings of complete dedication and made a worship feast of the peace offerings for his court. Since he was not a priest he did not enter the tabernacle, but stood outside facing the ark. .

v 16-28. The first recorded test of his wisdom was with the two women, one of whose child had died. Both argued that the live child was hers, so he ordered a sword to be brought and divide the living child among the two. The real mother begged to let the other woman have the child rather than harm it, thus proving it to be hers. This case of his wisdom became known throughout all the land.

1 Kings 04

v 1-6. Solomon’s eleven princes and their particular responsibilities are listed here. Scribes were important secretaries who prepared all documents for business transactions. The recorder maintained the daily records. Benaiah’s position was that of commander in chief of the army. Abiathar was listed as priest along with Zadok. He had been deposed for his defection with Adonijah and could no longer serve, but he retained his title. Azariah, different than verse 2, was over the twelve district officers in v 8-19, while Zabud of the priestly line was over all, and Solomon’s chief advisor. As son of Nathan, he had probably grown up along with Solomon. Ahishar oversaw the servants. Forced laborers were non Israelite conscripted workers working for the king.

v 7-19. Each of these twelve officers was responsible for supplying food supplies for the king’s household and his thousands of horses, v 28, one month of the year. In v 11 and 15 we find two of these men married daughters of Solomon, which would have been a noble relationship. Geber, v 9, was over the other two, v 13 , 14, east of Jordan, so is spoken of as being the only officer in that land. No officer is mentioned as being over Judah, so it was perhaps exempt from the levy.

v 20,21. Israel and Judah were prosperous and prolific during this period of time. Critics question Solomon being able to reign over this much land, but thorough studies show that Egypt and Assyria were both in decline at this point in history.

v 22-25. The amount of food needed to run the government for one day is hard to imagine. Solomon had dominion over this whole vast area, but part of it was simply tributary to Israel. The part they actually possessed was from Dan to Beer-sheba.

v 26-28. By now Solomon had ignored the command of the Lord for the kings not to multiply to themselves horses, Deut. 17:16. Verse 26 says he had four thousand horse and 2 Chronicles says he had four thousand stalls for horse. There is no contradiction. He had ten horses to a stall. Such a stall of large stones was at one time in Jerusalem.
He continued to violate the next verse and multiplied to himself wives,11:1-4.

v 29-34. Solomon’s wisdom exceeded that of the most knowledgeable in the world. He not only spoke 3000 proverbs, but 1005 songs. He had wisdom in every subject, and representatives from all over the known world came to hear him.

1 Kings 05

So much can be added from 2 Chr. that those additions will be in parenthesis.

v 1-6. There was now peace in the land so Solomon immediately set about to build the temple. He knew David and Hiram had a good relationship and informed him of his goal to obey the Lord and David by building the temple. Solomon requested to purchase cedar (also fir and algum) [which was use on steps in the temple and his house and for frames for harps and lyres] from Lebanon). Lebanon had not given Israel any trouble so they had not conquered it, but apparently Tyre had control over it and could sell timber from it. Solomon offered his workmen (70,000 carriers, 80,000 stone masons and 3,600 overseers), to work along with Hiram’s skilled workers. (They were skilled, 2 Chr. 2:7, in all metal, dyed cloth and engraving.) ( In 2 Chr, 2:1-10 Solomon declares the great purpose of the temple and his testimony of being unworthy before the Lord except to bring sacrifices to him). 

v 7-12. Perhaps through David, Hiram had come to know  the Lord, and he recognized Solomon’s wisdom. Hiram would agree with the Queen of Sheba, 10:9, that God made Solomon king because He loved his people Israel. He was pleased to do business with the young son of David and offered to be responsible for rafting the  logs to where an appropriate location (Joppa and Solomon would take it to Jerusalem). Hiram’s family and workers were to receive about 125,000 bushels of ground wheat, and 115,000 gallons of olive oil. (2 Chr. 2:10, also 125,000 bushels of barley and 115,000 gallons of wine.) It has been suggested that the food in Kings was for Hiram’s household, and that in Chronicles for the workmen. The two kings good treaty relationship lasted for many years.

v 13-18. The conscripted men were apparently Israelites, as were his chief officers, v 16, who were over the work. There were 30,000 who served by courses, 1 month working, 2 months home. The rest of them were not Israelites, 2 Chr. 2:17, but had been captured or chose to live in the land. They would have received good treatment, as Israel was not to oppress a stranger, Ex, 23:9.

1 Kings 06

v 1. This is an important verse as it gives a reference point for dating other things. Combined with other ancient writings, Solomon’s reign is established at 971-931 B. C.
v 2-4. Depending on the length of the cubit, the temple figures to be 90’ long, 30’ wide, and 45’ high, with the porch adding another 15’ to the length. The narrow windows were above the side rooms.
v 5-7. The main building was the main hall and inner sanctuary, with a structure built around the outside on 2 or 3 sides of side rooms for priest’s storage. There were three stories with each room seven and a half feet high, the total being about twenty two and a half feet high. Their width increased from bottom to top from seven and one half feet to nine feet to ten and a half feet. The walls became narrower, so the offset ledges supported the upper levels, but the inside sat on rests of cedar beams, v 10. Thus they were not into the main walls but rested on the ledges of the main temple wall. Evidence still shows that the rock hewing was done at the quarries. Lumber likewise was accurately hewn off the site, ready to be put together like a do it yourself kit. They were prepared so there was no noise from that in the sanctuary. We should be preparing ourselves now to enter the heavenly sanctuary.
v 8-10. The temple faced east, so the door to the chambers would have been on the south. All the chambers were connected by passageways and winding staircases in a way we can not determine. The roof was of cedar wood.
v 11,12. While in the construction phase, God reminded Solomon that promises of 2 Sam. 7 are not based on the temple, but on obedience. (Or with ornate churches today.) Later Solomon disobeyed, leading to Rehoboam losing 10 of the tribes.
v 14-22. The floor of fir planks we might call cypress. All walls were wainscoted with cedar to the ceiling rafters,30’, and it also was cedar. The rear room, the Most Holy Place containing the ark, was 30’ x 30’ x 30’, and the main sanctuary 30’ x 30’ x 60’, a larger scale of the original tabernacle. It had veil, 2 Chr. 3;14, and doors described in v 31,32, maybe sliding, and opened and shut with golden chains, v21. The cedar incense altar, v 20, and all walls and ceiling, v 22,  were overlaid with gold.
v 23-28. In the most holy place were two cherubim of olive wood overlaid with gold. Each was 15’ high with 15’ wingspread so that they touched wings and the walls on either side. They were overlaid with gold.
v 29,32. We note that every wall and door in both rooms was carved with knops (gourds), open flowers, cherubim and palm trees, then overlaid with pure gold. Likewise the floor in both rooms was overlaid with pure gold. Everything gold. This  door opening was one fifth of the wall, or six feet wide and had two olive wood doors.
v 33-35. The posts of the outer temple door were olive wood, and the opening was one fourth the width of the building, or seven and one half feet wide. These bi-fold doors were of fir (probably cypress) and all doors were of the carving overlaid with gold except that no gourds are mentioned on the doors.
v 36. The inner, or upper or priests court surrounding the temple was three tiers of cut rock and one tier of cedar beams, Jews say low enough for the priests to see over. It was probably 150’ x 400’. and the doors were overlaid with bronze, 2 Chr. 4:9.
v 37,38. Construction was from Apr.-May of Solomon’s 4th year till Oct.- Nov. of his 11th year, actually seven and one half years. Additional information 2 Chr. 3.

1 Kings 07

v 1. The account of the temple construction is interrupted to tell about Solomon’s other building programs. He had commendably rushed through the building of the temple, but his own house is larger and took twice as long, 13 years.
v 2-6. The Forest of Lebanon house was in Jerusalem, but got it’s name from the amount of cedar from Lebanon in it’s construction. It appears to be a part of a large complex of buildings. I do not propose to go into detail on these houses, but the size can be noted by the 45 pillars and three tiers of lights. First building was the porch.
v 7-12. Next porch was a hall of judgment enclosed in cedar. Adjoining that was his own house and a separate house for Pharaoh’s daughter. The foundations were of expensive hewn stones 12’ to 15’ in length. Around the “great court”  of the complex was a a four tiered wall, constructed like the inner wall of 6:36.
v 13-22. This Hiram (or Huram) was a workman in bronze from Tyre, not the king. His father was a Phoenician but his mother was a Jew from Dan, 2 Chr. 2:14, who lived in Naphtali, or vice versa. The bronze pillars he built were 27’ high, 34’ with the capitals, and 18’ in circumference. They were erected as an obelisk on either side of the roofless front porch approach to the temple. The discrepancy with 2 Chr. 3:15 is probably because of the similarity between 35 and 18 in the Hebrew. The capitals top portion was like lilies, under which were gold pomegranates interwoven among seven lattice like chains on each pillar.
v 23-26. This giant laver was 15’ across, 7 1/2’  high, 45’ in circumference and a hand breadth, about 4” thick. It held 11,500 gallons of water, and the brim was rounded (like a rose petal) and engraved with lilies. It sat on the rear of 12 bronze oxen as a base, three facing outward in each direction, 2 Chr. 4:4.
In v 21 the bronze pillars  were about 27’ high with 5’ chapiter on top, but when it was taken down in captivity the chapiter measure two feet less. A theory  that they werre filled with sand which was released to operate levers thus shortening the chapiters. The theory that a proest stood on the four corners of platform to unlock it to lower the ark. Sand released from other to raise platform after ark hidden.
v 27-39. Each of these ten bases had wheels and can best be described as stands for butchering sacrificial animals. They were 6’ square and 5 1/2’ high and a basin on each that held 230 gallon of water. Some see vaguely from v 30 that there was a circular basin of similar size underneath to catch the waste water from a drain. Nothing is said of water cocks on any lavers, but they were an absolute necessity If they had even dipped water, it would be polluted. It is still a customary practice in those areas to pour water for washing. There were intricate engravings of cherubim, lions and palm trees on the sides of all the bases. Normally five bases sat on each side of the temple, but being on wheels, they could be moved, only with difficulty.
v 40-47. This enumerates all the previous bronze things for outside the temple which Hiram made, plus the pots, shovels and small basins. All were cast in the suitable clay near the Jordan, and no attempt was made to measure their weight.
v 48-51. The bronze items outside represented sacrifice and cleansing. Inside,  the wood overlaid with gold represented Christ’s deity and humanity, gold His deity.  Inside the temple, Solomon had all furnishings and utensils made of gold, even the door sockets. Instead of one lamp stand, there were five on a side, and 2 Chr. 4:8, ten tables for showbread, five on a side, not just one as implied here. Work completed, Solomon put all remaining dedicated items in the store chambers about the temple.

1 Kings 08 

v 1,2. Eleven months after the temple was finished, all clean up was done, the dedicated things put in storage, and all was in readiness to bring up the ark and dedicate the temple. Solomon assembled all the leaders of Israel to have part in the dedication, but he timed it in the seventh month, so that all Israel could come a week before the time of Feast of Tabernacles.
v 3-7. The ark had been in the part of Jerusalem known as Zion, the city of David, but now it is moved to the main part of Jerusalem. It is carried by the priests, and the  Levites moved the tent and all holy items that had been in the tent, probably storing them. It was the priests’ job to carry the ark, but on this special occasion, the priests carry it as they did when they marched around Jericho. Apparently Solomon and a multitude of people went on ahead and began sacrificing animals without numbering or counting the cost. This is not the same sacrifice as in 8: 62-64. The priests carried it into the Most Holy place and placed it under the over spreading wings of the cherubim  which were of olive wood overlaid with gold.
v 8. They didn’t draw the staves clear out, that would be contrary to Ex. 25:15. They drew them far enough that they would not interfere with the cherubim and could be seen at the door of the holy place, but could not be seen beyond that.
v 9-11. With the passage of years and local captivity, the manna, Aaron’s rod had been removed, and if the book of the Law written by Moses was ever placed in it instead of beside it, Deut. 31:26, it had been removed too, so only the two tables of stone with the ten commandments remained. As soon as the priests went out, the glory of the Lord came in, a cloud as in the wilderness. In Ex. 16:33,34 the ark wasn’t yet built and the pot of manna was to be put before the two stones of testimony. In Ex. 25:16 the command was given to put the testimony into the ark. In Num. 17:4, the rods were to be placed before the testimony, and v 10, Aaron’s was to be returned and kept there. It would seem, according to Heb. 9:4, that sometime, either before or after Solomon, the rod and the manna were in it for a while.
Note. 1 Ki. 7:51-8:11 is similar to 2 Chr. 5:1-14, but 2 Chr. 11-14 adds that all 24 divisions of priests and Levites were present for the occasion instead of serving in the usual courses. Asaph, Heman and Jeduthin with all their musicians were clothed in white linen and had their cymbals psaltries and harps, and with them 120 priests east of the altar blowing trumpets. All were in unison and then praised the Lord saying, “For He is good, for His mercy endureth forever.” Then the cloud filled the temple. 
v 12-21. Solomon wants the Lord’s presence, as indicated by the dark cloud, to remain with them forever. When Solomon turned to the congregation, they arose in respect. He blessed the people and blessed God for putting it in David’s heart to build the temple. The Lord said David’s son would do it, and it has now been done, not for himself, but for the name of God, that is, where His presence would dwell. 
Verses 22-53 are like 2 Cor. 6:12-42, but it may be worded more beautifully there.
v 22-24. Solomon stood on a platform seven and one half feet square and four and one half feet high, spread his hands and kneeled on his knees to pray, 2 Chr. 6:12,13. He began with worship and praise for God keeping His promises, then made petitions: 
v 25-30. [1] God’s presence and protection. To continue the promises to David and hear him and the people when they pray toward the temple, but recognizing it  or even heaven, could not contain God, though heaven is His dwelling place.
v 31,32. [2] Forgiveness of trespasses between Israelite, Judging them rightly.
v 33,34. [3] Forgiveness of sins which caused defeat in battle.
v 35.36. [4] Forgiveness of sins whitch brought on  drouth.
v 37-40 [5] Forgiveness of sins causing other calamities, famine, plague, blight, mildew, locusts, grasshoppers, enemies siege, diseases. Purpose, to fear God.
v 41-43. [6] Mercy on God fearing foreigners. So all on the earth would fear God.
v 44,45  [7] Victory in battle.
v 46-49  [8] Compassion from enemies while in captivity, if pray toward Jerusalem
v 50-53  [9] Summary, God’s attention to every prayer because they are chosen to be His inheritance as told to Moses (and His mercies to David, 2 Chr. 6:42).
v 54-61. When Solomon arose from his knees he pronounced a benediction on the people, praising God for keeping his promises to Moses. He made three requests to God:  V 57, That God would be with us; V 58, God would incline them to obey Him;  V 59, That all his requests might be near the heart of God continually, and by this     all people might know God. In view of those things, they should obey God.
At this point that 2 Chr. 7:1-3 takes place .  As soon as Solomon ended his prayer, fire came down from heaven and consumed the sacrifices, showing God’s acceptance. A cloud had filled the house, 8:10 and 2 Chr. 5:13, now  the cloud and the glory of the Lord filled the house again, and again the priests could not enter. The people were in awe and repeated the words of the musicians and Levites in 5:13.
v 62-66. This is not the same sacrifice as in 8:5.  The altar was not large enough to handle the vast offering, so the king hallowed the middle of the court, and more were offered right on top of the pavement stones. The normal week of Feast of Tabernacles was extended to two weeks to celebrate the permanent home of the ark. People had come from one extreme of the country to the other, and leave with joy.
2 Chr.  7:6-11. Adds, during this great sacrifice, the Levites played, the priests sounded the trumpets, and the people stood. After the 14 days of celebration, the next day was a solemn assembly usually coming after the 8th day. Ordinarily the feast began on the 15th and they would be sent home the 23rd, so they had begun the celebration early, on the 8th of the month.
Solomon had spared no cost or effort in building the temple. Our bodies are the temple of the Lord and we should glorify God by our bodies, 1 Cor. 6:19,20.
Some comparisons between the temple and tabernacle
1 Chr. 28:19  with   Ex. 25:40              God gave the pattern
1 Chr. 29:9    with   Ex. 25:2                 People agreed with willing hearts
2 Chr. 3:5-8   with   Ex. 26:33              Old, linen veil - New. gold overlay
2 Chr. 4:1       with   Ex. 27:1                Old altar, 5x5x3 cubits - New, 20x20x10
2 Chr. 4:2-6   with   Ex. 30:18-21         Old, a laver - New, a “sea” and 10 lavers
2 Chr. 4:19    with    Ex. 37:10,25,26   New, more but similar vessels

1 Kings 09

v 1,2. This is the same time the Lord appeared to him in 2 Chron. 7 after the huge sacrifices during which Solomon hallowed the court for sacrifices, because the bronze altar was too small. The appearance was after the Feast of Tabernacles and the Lord gave him the famous secret for revival in 2 Chr. 7:14. The first appearance at Gibeon was in the early years of his reign, 1 Ki. 3:5, when God offered him anything he might ask, and he asked for wisdom. **
v 3. God informs him He had heard the prayer and began several considerations.
v 4. If Solomon was obedient.
v 5. Then God would establish his kingdom as promised to David.
v 6. But if he disobeyed and served other gods,
v 7-9. Then God would (1) cut off Israel from their land, (2) the temple would be ruined and (3) Israel become a byword (It still is today.). All nations would know it was because they had forsaken God and turned to other gods.
v 10-14. About the midpoint of Solomon’s reign, he attempted to reward Hiram for services by giving him twenty adjoining cities. Hiram found them unproductive land and unsuitable for his maritime interests, however useful they might be to others. He declined them or, as some they kept them until Solomon’s debt to him was paid. Apparently Solomon made more satisfactory settlement and populated the cities with Israelites, 2 Chr. 8:2. o15-19. Solomon embarked on many building projects, among them rebuilding Gezer, which Pharaoh had given his daughter for dowry when she married Solomon. Others in these verses were fortified defense cities, storage cities and cities for his horses for defense. (2 Chr. 8:3-6 list other named and unnamed cities.) Solomon was keeping horses contrary to God’s command, Deut. 17:16, already beginning to rely on the flesh instead of the Lord. Much of his building was for his own satisfaction, not for productive economics. Perhaps David foresaw Solomon’s building skills  when he wrote Ps. 127:1, “Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it.....”.  
v 20-23. Solomon had 550 supervisors, (250 of them Israelites 2 Chr. 8:10); 3,300 foremen (1 Ki. 5:16) and conscripted labor from people of the area who they had not completely destroyed. Israelites were not slaves but soldiers captains etc. (2 Chr. 8:9).
v 24. Solomon had spiritual sense to move Pharaoh’s daughter from his house near which the ark had been in the city of David, to her house in the temple complex, because he felt the pagan would defile the sacred places (2 Chr. 8:11). Millo, here, was a well known part of the fortification of Jerusalem, a breach in the wall being repaired there.
v 25. Solomon did not do the actual sacrifice as Uzziah did, 1 Chr. 26:18-21, but had the priests offer for him. His desire was to still be spiritual before the Lord, but he was slipping and later failure is seen in 11:7,8. (2 Chr. 8:12-16 detail the three times a year as feast of unleavened bread; feast of weeks; feast of tabernacles; plus daily, new moons and sabbaths. The order of courses and duties is also given 1 Kings 4:1-34.)
v 26-28. Solomon and Hiram continued friendly relations, and Hiram provided experienced sailors to assist Solomon’s navy. The Ezion-geber port is in the gulf of Aqaba on the east arm of the Red Sea. (Excavations in this area in 1937-40 found copper refineries of the 10th century B.C. during Solomon’s reign.) Ophir was probably in southwestern Arabia, and is noted for it’s gold also in Job 22:24 and 28:16.

1 Kings 10

v 1-3. Comparing with Matt. 12:42, “south land and uttermost”, Sheba is modern day Yemen in Arabia, 1200 miles from Jerusalem, but she probably heard of him via his fleet to Ophir. Her ancestry would trace back to Sheba son of Joktan, son of the patriarch Eber, line of Shem, Gen. 10:28. Their kingdom was called the kingdom of Sheba for centuries. The Queen no doubt followed the camel caravan route along the gulf to get to Jerusalem. She wanted to test Solomon with questions and riddles, and received a perfect answer for everything.
v 4,5. After seeing all these things, we would say she was “flabbergasted”.
v 6-8. She had been skeptical of the stories she had heard, but found out they were all an understatement. Solomon’s people were all happy at first, but she did not see the conscripted laborers or those who were becoming burdened down with taxes.
v 9. Even though probably a pagan, she acknowledged that Solomon was made king, not just for his own pleasure, but because God loved Israel. She was probaboy converted. The ascent by which Solomon went up, 2 Chronicles 9:14, was by way of he altar for sin offeeing. 
v 10. It is common yet today for visiting monarchs to bring gifts to their host. These gifts and the camel train of verse 2 indicate her own wealth. Her gift of gold was some four and one half tons (?), so imagine the size of the camel caravan.
v 11,12. These statements may indicate the two leaders developed a trading agreement. Almug wood is tight grain, strong, beautiful, black outside, red inside. He made harps, psaltries and pillars from it  (Also terraces, 2 Chr. 9:11.)
v 13. There was an exchange of gifts before she returned home.
v 14,15. God said not to multiply gold, but Solomon imported about 25 tons (?) annually. This didn’t include other merchandise or taxes.
v 16,17. The targets or bucklers were small round shields. They and the large shields of gold would have been for parade use only.
v 18-22. The inlaid ivory arm chair like throne was overlaid with gold, but not covering the ivory.  It was an extravagance of less comfort than a pine bench. Perhaps the lions were to represent the twelve tribes of Israel. Silver became common as stones, v 27, and insignificant to the large amount of gold. The “pets” probably ran loose.
v 23-25. All who came to hear Solomon’s wisdom contributed to his wealth.
v 26-29. Solomon amassed horses and chariots, giving Israel an advantage over enemies, but God wanted them to rely on him, so He forbade it in Deut. 17:16. Horse buying for profitable resale became another one of his pursuits. He paid Egypt 15 pounds of silver for a chariot and three and three quarter pounds for a horse.

1 Kings 11

v 1-8. Pharaoh’s daughter was only the first of many foreign wives who turned Solomon’s heart from the Lord as warned in Deut. 17:17. They got him to worshiping Ashtoreth, the goddess of sex, and since he would not consort with temple prostitutes, this may account partly for his 700 wives and 300 concubines. He apparently had a harem in some part of the building complex, which added to his prestige among the heathen kings. Worshipers of Molech (same as Milcom) sacrificed children, but it is unlikely Solomon did that. He had not abandoned God and had a form of religion, 1 Kings 9:25, but added the others to Him. Chemosh was also cruel and licentious.
v 9-13. It is amazing that one to whom God had appeared twice could turn so far from Him, but that is a warning to us, 1 Cor. 10:12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. He had thrown away the promise of 9:4,5, and God informed him, v 11, that he would give part of the kingdom to one of his subordinates. Out of love for David, God would not do this in Solomon’s lifetime, and according to His unconditional promise, 1 Chr, 17:11-14, He left the tribe of Judah with him, 12:20. (Eventually Benjamin and a remnant of Simeon who had not migrated north, 2 Chr. 15:9; 34:6, were with Judah known as the Southern Kingdom.) David had done some gross sins, but he had a repentant heart, which Solomon did not.
v 14-22. Hadad was a boy prince of Edom who escaped to Egypt when David destroyed Edom. Pharaoh liked him and gave him the sister of his wife, Taphenes, for a wife. Apparently he waited for a day of revenge until after David died, and leaving the comfort of Egypt, he caused trouble, probably raids, on Israel’s southern edge.
v 23--25. Rezon was a rebel from the king of Zobah who went slightly north to Damascus and formed a band, and apparently made raids on northern Israel.
v 26-28. Jeroboam was from Ephraim, the leading tribe in the Northern Kingdom, and had worked for Solomon in building supporting terraces and filling in the gap in the wall of the City of David. He did good work and was promoted foreman over all the forced labor in the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh.
v 29-33. Ahijah the prophet located Jeroboam privately outside Jerusalem in a field. He tore his own new coat in pieces and gave him ten, to show him that he would become leader of the ten northern tribes, leaving only one (actually Benjamin and Judah) for Solomon, because he had forsaken God for idols.
v 34-36.  For David’s sake, this would not be in Solomon’s lifetime, but in that of his son. He would retain one tribe so that the promise of a continuing Davidic kingdom would be maintained.
v 37-39. Jeroboam could rule as he chose, and was given a conditional promise for a perpetual kingdom, much as David was given and unconditional promise. Seed of David would be afflicted, but not forever, because of the promise to David. This is looking forward to David’s greatest descendent, Christ.
v 40. Solomon knew he was loosing the kingdom to a subordinate, 11:11, But foolishly tried to kill the man God chose, just as Saul had done. Probably Jeroboam had tried to rebel prematurely in “lifting up his hand”, v 26. 
v 41-43.(Books of Nathan, Ahijah, and Iddo no longer exist)  The Bible records no more. It is sad that with all the blessings and wisdom to do right, Solomon threw it away for the lusts of the flesh. No wonder he wrote Ecclesiastes. Rehoboam followed.

1 kings 12

v 1. For Rehoboam’s family, see 2 Chr. 18-23 and my notes on 1 Kings 15:2.    Perhaps Shechem was decided as the place of coronation, more central and more apt to unify divisions than Jerusalem. Also it had been of significance to Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, and was by Mt Ebal and Mt Gerazim where blessings and curses were quoted
v 2-5. Jeroboam was known as a mighty man of valor, 11:28, so he was called from Egypt to be spokesman for the people. They promised to serve Rehoboam if he would lighten their burdens, and he asked three days to think it over.
v 6,7. Rehoboam consulted his father’s advisors and they advised lightening it.
v 8-11. He turned to his peers and they advised firm authority and toughness.
v 12-15. He had three days to think it over and unwisely chose to answer roughly that he would be much harder on them than his father had been. If he had been cooperative there would have been peace, at least for a while, but his decision was permitted  of the Lord, that His promise to Jeroboam would be fulfilled.
v 16-20. The people had wearied of Solomon’s taxation and conscriptions for his building programs, so predictably, they angrily rejected Rehoboam and used the same defiant words as Sheba did, 2 Sam. 20:1, “To your tents O Israel”. Rehoboam sent his taskmaster Adoram to persuade the rebels, but they stoned him. Rehoboam realized the people meant business, so fled for his life to Jerusalem. Only Judah and those close by remained faithful to Rehoboam. The rest of Israel promptly installed Jeroboam king, which seems like they had already plotted to do if they didn’t get their way.
v 21-24. Rehoboam assembled 180,000 good soldiers to regain the kingdom, but the Lord sent Shemiah, a man of God, to tell them not to go, because this was of the Lord. They all had the good sense to obey God.
v 25. Jeroboam immediately fortified Shechem as his capitol, and Peniel, east of the Jordan for protection from the east.
v 26-,27. It is natural for Jeroboam to be concerned that if Israel was going back to Jerusalem to worship and fellowship together for up to a week three times a year that they might turn back to Rehoboam. But this was an evil heart of unbelief, because God had promised, 11:38, that if he remained true to God, God would give him Israel and establish a sure house for him, just as he had done for David.
v 28. Jeroboam not only thought it out, but sought advice on how to counteract the influence of Jerusalem and the temple. He had seen in Egypt as well as in Canaan how people set up calves to worship or aid in worship, but he failed to consider the judgment of God for Aaron’s golden calf in the wilderness. This was sheer apostasy.
v 29,30. For everyone’s convenience, he set up one in Dan in the far north, the other in Bethel, not far from the border of Judah. People committed sin by worshiping both calves, going as far as Dan even to do so.
v 31. Levites and priests migrated to Judah from all Israel, 2 Chr. 11:13,14, and Jeroboam set up common people to serve in houses built on high places. He set up idols of goats (devils in KJV) and calves. (Many other people moved back in the days of Asa, because God was with him, 2 Chr. 11:16; 15:9.)
v 32,33. Having put in spurious priests, he now puts in a spurious sacrificial system. His feast is in the 8th month instead of the 7th, and at Bethel instead of Jerusalem, and he also offered on the altar himself,13:1.

1 Kings 13

v 1-3. As Jeroboam prepared to burn incense, the man of God foretold 1 A child in David’s line named Josiah would be born; 2 He would offer false priests on the altar (fulfilled 2 Kings 23:15-20);  3 For a sign of proof, the altar would be torn down and the ashes poured out.
v 4-6. Jeroboam angrily reached out with a command to grab the man, but his hand became immediately paralyzed and the altar was split apart. At the Jeroboam’s request, the man of God called upon God and the king’s hand was restored.
v 7--10. The man of God rejected Jeroboam’s offer of any reward, and said God had told him not to even eat or drink in that place, and departed a different way.
v 11-19. An old prophet continued to live in this wicked Bethel, and whether from interest in him as a true, young prophet of God, or jealousy, he hastened to find the man of God, and asked him  to come eat with him, but got the same answer. The old prophet lied to him, v 18, that an angel had told him to bring him back for food and water, so the man of God did. We must remember Gal. 1:8,9, not to believe an angel or anyone but the word of God. Satan used that trick on Eve, “Hath God said?”
v 20-22. While they were eating the Lord told the old prophet to tell the man of God that he had disobeyed God, so his body would not return to his home sepulcher.
v 23-32. A divinely appointed lion killed the prophet, but merely stood by the body and the ass as others went by. When the old prophet heard the report, he knew it was the man of God,  because of his disobedience. He went after the body and buried it in his own tomb, grieving, partly because of his own responsibility for the death. He wanted to eventually be buried with him,  because he knew his prophecy was true.
v 33,34. After the paralyzed and healed hand and the broken altar, Jeroboam went right back into sin, and the kingdom offered him in 11:38 would be cut off instead.

1 Kings 14

v 1-4. Jeroboam knows Ahijah could tell if his sick son would live, but because of his sins, he was ashamed to go to the man who had appointed him king. He had his wife disguise herself before going to the nearly blind man to inquire.
5-9. God forewarned Ahijah so he knew it was Jeroboam’s wife, and gave her a heavy message for Jeroboam. He had angered God by making melted images and other gods, turning his back on the true God.
v 10,11. The man of God in chapter 13 had told Jeroboam of the destruction of his religious system. Ahijah tells him of the destruction of his dynasty. Every male in the household of Jeroboam, both bond and free, would be destroyed, eaten by dogs in the city or by birds in the field.
v 12,13. His only male descendant to be buried would be Abijah, who would die when she entered the city. This indicated the other prophecies would come true also.
v 14-16. A king (Baasha, 15:27-29) would cut off Jeroboam’s family soon, and the ten tribes of Israel would eventually be taken captive across the Euphrates (to Gozan, a tributary east of Haran, by Assyrians  2 Ki 17:6). They would be judged in captivity because of the sins Jeroboam had practiced and had led them into.
v 17,18. Before she entered her own house at Tirzah, no longer at Shechem, the child died and was then buried as Ahijah had told her.
v 19,20. In 2 Chr. 13, Jeroboam raised a huge army against Judah, but they trusted the Lord, so Jeroboam’s army lost 500,000 chosen men. He did not regain strength again and died, 2 Chr. 13:20. He reigned 22 years, followed by son Nadab.
v 21-24. We shift to Judah and king Rehoboam. His mother was Naamah, one of the heathen wives Solomon married, and as an Ammonite, she worshiped licentious Molech. She probably was a factor in leading Judah into idol worship and the cult homosexuals of verse 24, doing the same wickedness as the enemies who had been driven out of the land.
v 25-28. Because of Rehoboam’s wickedness, God permitted all those wonderful gold shields and vessels to be taken into Egypt by Shishak. Rehoboam replace them with bronze shields. Details in 2 Chr. 2:1-12 say 12,000 chariots, 60,000 horsemen and innumerable people from other countries were in the Egyptian attack and took many of Judah’s fortified cities. Shemaiah, a prophet, told Rehoboam and the princes that the defeat was because he had forsaken God, so they humbled themselves and God did not allow Shishak to destroy them. However God allowed them to be servants, so they would see the service to Shishak was the judgment of God.
v 29-31. Rehoboam died after reigning 17 years, v 21. See also 2 Chr. 12:13-16. There had been continual war with Jeroboam all this time. Rehoboam’s son Abijah followed.

1 Kings 15

v 1-6. Jeroboam reigned over Israel 18 years when Abijah followed Rehoboam over Judah. For family information read 2 Chr. 11:18-23. Maacah, the granddaughter of David’s son Absalom, was Rehoboam’s favorite among 18 wives and 60 concubines, so he prepared her son, Abijah to be king. Rehoboam had 28 sons and 60 daughters and  provided for all his sons as leaders in fortified cities and sought wives for them. Abijah sinned like Rehoboam had done much of the time, but God set up his son after him and established Jerusalem for David’s sake, in spite of David’s sin regarding Uriah, 2 Sam. 11.
v 7.8. There continued to be war with Jeroboam through the three years of Abijah. For more on Abijah, read 2 Chr. 13:1-19. When his 400,000 men were faced with Jeroboam’s 800,000, he took a stand for the Lord. He rebuked Jeroboam for taking advantage of Rehoboam when he was young, for the golden calves, for ousting the priests and setting up common men as priests and perverting commanded worship. Furthermore, Judah was trusting God for it’s captain. When Abijah realized Jeroboam had set an ambush, all Judah called upon God, gave a shout and God delivered them and they killed 500,000 of the enemy soldiers. So Judah prevailed and captured many of the cities of Israel because they had relied on God.   Read 2 Chr. 13: 21 22 for record that Abijah had 14 wives, 22 sons and 16 daughters.
v 9-15. Asa is Judah’s first really good king, and starting in the twentieth year of Jeroboam, he reigned 41 years. Maacah was actually his grandmother, but he did not show partiality. He destroyed the idol she she had made in a grove and removed her from being queen, 2 Chr. 15:16. The groves were Ashera poles set up with fertility symbols (private parts) carved on them. Apparently it was in his early years that he removed the homosexuals and idols from the land. In keeping with Lev. 26:30, he removed the high places, according to 2 Chr. 14:2-5, but there were many and he did not get them all removed, v 14 and 2 Chr. 15:16. He was able to bring in dedicated items from the war Abijah won over Jeroboam and from his own victory over the Ethiopians, read 2 Chr. 14:6-15. God had given Asa rest after his early reforms, so he built fortified cities, a 580,000 man army and prospered. Zerah, an Ethiopian came against him with a million men and 300 chariots. Asa called upon the Lord in trust with a well known verse, 2 Chr. 14:11, the Lord can help with many or with the weak. God aided him in practically destroying the enemy, so Asa smote all the cities round about and brought back an abundance of spoils.
At this point 2 Chr. 15:1-7 takes place.  The Prophet Azariah met Asa, perhaps as he was returning from the battle, and gave him an admonition that if he sought the Lord, the Lord would be with him, but if he forsook the Lord, the Lord would forsake him. Azariah pointed out that this had been the case with Israel in the past, so if Asa would strengthen himself in the Lord, he would be rewarded. (Gal. 6:9)
Jeroboam’s death after 22 years is recorded 14:19, 20 and 2 Chr. 13:20. For more information on him see 1 Kings 22 and 2 Chr. 17-20.
v 25-31 come chronologically before  v 16-22
Nadab succeeded Jeroboam, 14:20 in the 2nd year of Asa, king of Judah. He was sinful like his father, who had made Israel sin by setting up a corrupt religious system. He only reigned two years and was slain by Baasha who took his place. He slew every one that breathed of the house of Jeroboam, 14:20, thus fulfilling the word of the Lord to the prophet Ahijah, 14:10-14.
v 16-22. After ruthlessly slaying all of the Jeroboam family, Baasha continuously warred against Asa, king of Judah. He constituted a threat by setting up Ramah on the border of Judah to prevent any communication between the two countries. Instead of trusting the Lord for help as he had before, Asa emptied his treasuries to hire the king of Syria, Ben-hadad, to break his treaty with Israel and help him. Ben-hadad smote some of the cities in northern Israel, so Baasha left off building Ramah, and returned to his capitol,Tirzah, north of Shechem. Asa took the building materials to build fortified border cities of his own, Mizpah in the disputed area and Geba along the border of Benjamin. This portion is repeated in 2 Chr. 16:1-6 with the addition in 7-10 of a rebuke from the Lord through Hanani the seer. Asa had relied on the Lord in the battle with the Ethiopians, but here he relied on the power of Syria. He had done foolishly so from now on he would have wars. (2 Chr,15:19, There had been no more war after that with the Ethiopians  until his 35th  year.) Asa was angry with the message of Hanani so he threw him in prison and apparently took his anger out on some other people by oppressing them.
v 23,24. Read 2 Chr. 16:11-17:1 for better detail than here. Throughout Asa’s life he had trusted the Lord until the treaty with Syria, and again in his old age, in the 39th year of his reign, he became diseased in his feet and tried to rely on physicians to help him instead of calling upon the Lord. He died in his 40th year and had an elaborate funeral, befitting one who had followed the Lord most of his life.
He was laid on a bed of spices but placed in the tomb he had prepared. Some say the “Great burning” in 2 Chron. 16:14 refers to the burning of the spices. because cremation was not practiced by the Jews. It is pointed out that at Herod’s funeral five hundred men bearing spices.
Others say royal cremation was prevalent at the time of the kings, among Jews
Jehoshaphat, Asa’s son reigned in his place, after a co-regency of 2 or 3 years.
For the beginning of the reign of Jehoshaphat, see notes in 2 Chr. 17. The reign of Ahab and the major part of Elijah’s ministry are in 1 Ki. 16:28 -21:29 and we pick up on Jehoshaphat again in 1 Ki 22 and 2 Chr. 18.
(v 25-31 was covered before 16-22)
v 32-34. The sad part of the commentary on Baasha’s 24 year reign is that he did evil, walking after the manner of wicked Jeroboam.

1 Kings 16

v 1-7. Jehu rebuked wicked Baasha without any repercussion, but his father had rebuked righteous Asa, and Asa put him in jail. Believers must watch their attitudes. God had taken away Jeroboam’s posterity because of his sins, and he will take away Baasha’s with the same totality for his sins (compare v 4 with 1 Ki. 14:11). Baasha had not killed Jeroboam, but his son, Nadab and the rest of Jeroboam’s household.
v 8-10.  After Baasha died, his son, Elah,  reigned shy of two years and was killed by Zimri, captain of half his chariots. Zimri committed treason and murdered him while he was getting drunk at his steward’s house.
v 11-14. Zimri ruthlessly slew all of Baasha’s household, all his kindred, and all who were known to be friends to him. Elah was wicked like his father, v 13, and this his fulfilled the prophecy of v 4, but it did not excuse Zimri’s murders.
v 15-20. Zimri only ruled seven days, when the people who were encamped against the Philistines heard of it, and they made Omri king right there in the camp. Omri and the army went right up, besieged the city of Tirzah and took it. When Zimri saw that, he committed suicide by burning the palace down over himself. God allowed that as judgment for his sin of murder and other sins which he copied from Jeroboam.
v 21,22. A power struggle ensued with half the people following Tibni and half following Omri, but Omri’s side won and Tibni died. In other words he was killed.
v 23,24. Omri ruled from Tirzah six years, then bought the hill of Samaria from it’s owner, Shemer, built on it, and reigned six more years.
v 25-27. Omri not only followed in the sins Jeroboam, but was more wicked than all the kings who were before him.
v 28-33. When Omri died, his son Ahab began rule in the 38th year of Asa, king of Judah. All the kings of the ten tribes have been getting progressively worse, following in the sins of Jeroboam, but Ahab, son of Omri exceeded them in wickedness,v 33. He began in the 38th year of Asa in Judah and reigned 22 years in Samaria. His greatest sin was in marrying Jezebel, who got him to build a house for Baal and worshiping him. Jezebel was the chief princess of the Tyre god Baal. (Baal was an indiscriminate term for gods in various places, slightly different in practice but similar. In Tyre, Baal was believed to be the god that controlled storms and rain, hence God’s judgment and proof of power in chapter 17. Tyre Baal worship also involved worship of snakes, male and female prostitution, and murder and sacrifice of babies (children).
v 34. In Ahab’s days, Hiel rebuilt Jericho at the cost of the life of his oldest son when he laid the foundation, and the death of his youngest when he set up the gates. (Some think all sons in between died also.) This was nearly 600 years later, but was exactly the curse pronounced by Joshua in Josh. 6:26.

1 Kings 17 

v 1-7. We know nothing of Elijah’s background, except he was from Tishbe in the land of Gilead, east of the Jordan River and Jabesh-Gilead, near the brook Cherith. He apparently walked 40 to 50 miles west to Samaria to make this abrupt announcement of drouth to Ahab, then God sent him back to familiar wilds along the brook Cherith to hide. (The exact spot of Cherith is not known. Some think it was a wadi only 20 miles north of Samaria, practically under the king’s nose, but notice, God told him to turn eastward, v 3, not to the brook that flows eastward. Before Jordan does not need to apply to the west side.) He may have reproved Ahab, but the inference is that the drouth would do the reproving. It would show that God, not Baal (god of fertility), was in control of the weather. This drouth was so severe that there was not even the normal dew.
It is strange that God used an unclean bird to provide food for Elijah, perhaps preparing that he was later to go to an ”unclean” Gentile for provisions. A widow woman at that.
That the ravens brought putrid carrion to him is preposterous. Bread in scripture can be simply food, and flesh can be the pulp of fruits and vegetables. So ravens, who sometimes neglect even their own young, were prompted by God to provide berries, fruit, nuts, eggs, possibly fish and locusts. Gill wrote of a raven bringing a whole loaf of bread and laying it at the feet of two saints, Paulus and Antonius. Elijah was well cared for, his faith was strengthened. The drying up of the brook offered further challenge to strengthen his faith, but we can not assume he went clear to Zarephath with no water.
v 8-11. God provided in two more unlikely ways. Elijah was sent to a most unlikely place, the area of Sidon, some 90 miles away, the home area of Queen Jezebel. On the other hand, who would ever think of looking for him there? Secondly he was to go to Zarephath, to a Gentile widow. Her attitude was shown by her willingness to go get a drink for Elijah, who she recognized as an Israelite. This indicated he had found the right woman, so he asked her to bring him some food.
v 12-16. She was not necessarily a believer, because she said “thy God”, but she was familiar that Israel’s God was a living God, in contrast to those of the heathen.  She may have had reason to suspect, perhaps by his clothing, he was a prophet, and she may have been sure of it when she acted in faith. She obeyed Elijah, feeding him first, and trusting that God would provide as he told her. Much of the Lord’s work yet today is carried out because of those who have little means but are willing to share what they have.
v 17,18. This boy was dead, not unconscious as some would have us believe. Guilt rose up in her conscience, whether rightly or not, and she thought Elijah’s real purpose in coming was to bring judgment upon her.
v 19-23. Elijah took the boy up to the privacy of his guest room on the flat roof. His first prayer in v 20 was in compassion for the woman in her grief and guilt feelings. We may lay a hand upon the sick person, but Elijah, in his deep concern, placed his whole body in contact with the child. Elijah persisted, praying three more times. The Lord restored life to the boy and Elijah restored the boy to his mother.
v 24. If the woman had any doubts, they are now removed and she knows Elijah to be a man of God, speaking the true word of God. She had learned by observation, she now knows by experience.

1 Kings 18

v 1. It was three years, six months, James 5:17, before God had Elijah appear again to Ahab and tell him that He would send rain.
v 2-6. In the mean time, Ahab’s number one man, Obadiah, “feared the Lord greatly”, and  had hidden 100 prophets of the Lord, 50 per cave, and was managing to send them a subsistence ration of bread (food) and water. Obadiah was obedient to the king but secretly served the Lord. This was not cowardly, God was using his position to care for the prophets. The feed situation for the military horses was critical, and Ahab sent Obadiah one way to look for pasture while he went another.
v 7-14. Obadiah recognized Elijah when they met and bowed in respect. When asked to tell Ahab that Elijah was there, Obadiah protested it would cost him his life, because Elijah was a wanted man. Ahab had searched and even procured an oath from surrounding nations that they knew nothing of Elijah’s whereabouts, while he was comfortable at the obscure widow’s home. Obadiah can not be faulted for respectfully  saying “thy God” in verse 10. His own faith in God is stated in v 3 and proven by his actions. Obadiah feared that the Spirit would conceal Elijah, as he had been three and a half years (Also cp. 2 Ki 2:16), and himself would be killed by the king. He then pleaded for his life on the basis of his faithfulness in hiding and caring for the prophets of the Lord when Jezebel was killing them.
v 15.16. On the basis of Elijah’s oath to show himself, Obadiah told Ahab, who then went to meet Elijah. Elijah, as superior, waited for Ahab to come to him.
v 17-19. Ahab blamed the messenger, not the message, just as Israel killed other prophets later because they had spoken what God told them to. Elijah responded  the trouble was not him, but because of the wickedness of Ahab and his fathers. 1, For rejecting God’s commands. 2, For following Baal. Then he instructed Ahab to assemble all Israel and 850 false prophets on Mount Carmel. That is, 450 prophets of the male god Baal and 400 of the female goddess, Ashera. Later events indicate the 400 did not come. Perhaps Jezebel or they were suspicious
v 20-24. Thousands of Israelites no doubt came and were challenged by Elijah for trying to serve both God and Baal, “Whatever works”, and they had no answer. Elijah proposed a fair test, allowing Baal’s prophets to prepare their choice of two bullocks and put wood under it but no fire, and he would do likewise with the other. Which ever of the gods or God answered by fire would be God. The people approved of this.
v 25-29. The false prophets cried out all forenoon, leaping on the altar but no answer. Elijah mocked them so they cut themselves bloody and called upon their gods the rest of the afternoon without an answer. (At other times they had sometimes faked fire from gods by digging a tunnel and someone setting fire from underneath the altar.)
v 30-35. Elijah reassembled the people who by now were possibly getting bored. He dramatically took the torn down stones of the altar of the Lord and set up a new altar (Renewed altar - renewed faith). Next he dug a trench around the altar which would hold about five gallons of water. He cut up the bullock and laid it upon the wood, then turned work over to others. He had them fill four barrels (clay vessels of undetermined size as in 17:14) of water over the whole thing three times, until the water saturated and filled the trench he had made. It is not likely a spring or a local source of water was available. Elijah may have prepared ahead to have the water obtained from the Mediterranean Sea. Most likely, Ahab had a tent set up and water brought, since so many people would be there. We see in v 42 that food and drink was available, probably at this tent.  Obviously, no more than one trip could have been made the 10 mile round trip to the Sea for water, when it was about time for the evening sacrifice.
v 36,37. By now it was time for the evening sacrifice and Elijah called upon God to show   a. He was Lord of Israel; b. Elijah was his servant; c. He had done this at God’s command; d. They might know that God is the Lord; e. That God would turn their hearts back again.
v 38. God answered by fire, as he had done on other occasions to show His approval, and the fire even consumed the stones and water.
v 39,40. The people present unanimously and reverently acknowledged the Lord as God. Elijah commanded that all the 450 prophets of Baal be slain by the brook Kishon, where Deborah and Barak defeated Sisera.
v 41-44. Elijah told the king to go up, probably to his tent, to eat and drink, and that there would be heavy rain. The curse of idolatry was removed with death of false prophets, so rain could come.  While the king celebrated, Elijah went to the top of Carmel to pray. Elijah’s servant was sent to look out over the sea seven times, and when he finally reported seeing a little cloud arising like a man’s hand, Elijah knew God was starting to act. The servant was to tell Ahab to hasten lest the storm overtake him. By the time Ahab got moving, the severe storm was upon them. Whether or not the mud slowed Ahab’s chariot, God gave Elijah special strength, and he outran the chariot the whole 25 miles to Jezreel.

1 Kings 19

 Five mistakes Elijah made after Jezebel’s threat in verses 1-18.
1. He was not thinking realistically. God was just as powerful as sending rain etc.
2. He separated himself from others. Gehazi was gone and he was lonely.
3. He was caught up in the aftermath and let down after a great victory.
4. He was physically exhausted after the preceding incidents.
5. He submitted to self pity. “Only one”, had set an unrealistic standard for himself.
v 1-3. When Jezebel, chief princess of the Tyre god Baal, heard what Elijah had done, she sent him a message with an oath to kill him within 24 hours. He fled as fast as he could clear to southern Judah, some 125-150 miles, where he left his servant.
v 4-7. Going beyond Beer-sheba another 15 miles or so to a secluded place, he sank exhausted and asked for the Lord to take his life. He felt he had been no more successful than those before him in stamping out Baal worship. Remember that after a mountain top experience, discouragement and defeat can easily follow. While he slept, the Lord sent an angel to prepare him a meal and water, not once, but again after more rest, so he would have the strength to continue his journey. The angel was probably in the form of a man and woke him with a gentle touch. (Didn’t thank angel)
v 8. To Horeb, where God had revealed Himself to Moses and Israel, was about 200 miles. He could easily have gone in 14 days, but he probably wandered aimlessly and elusively until he ended up there. (Total from Murray to way beyond Minneapolis)
v 9,10. While he was holed up in a cave having a pity party, the Lord asked him what he was doing there. He complained that he had been zealous for the Lord, but he was the only one left and they were seeking him.
v 11,12. After the wind, earthquake and fire, God sent a (still small voice, sound of a gentle stillness) gentle breeze the contrast making him realize he was in the presence of God. Angels also cover their faces before God, Isa. 6:2.
v 13,14. With that realization, he covered his face and went out to wait for God to act. God asked the same question as earlier and Elijah answered the same self centered way as he had before, showing that he still felt the same way.
v 15-17. God did not rebuke him, but dealt with him kindly, and to show He was not through with him, gave him more jobs to do, but in a less spectacular way. He was to go clear back beyond where he had started, to Damascus. Then he was to anoint Hazael king over Syria, Jehu son of Nimshi (not son of Hanani) king over Israel, and Elisha to take his place. In answer to complaint of v 10 and 14, all three of these men chosen by God would complete the purge of Baal worship Elijah had started. Actually he only anointed Elisha, and through him Hazael became king, and one of Elisha’s associates anointed Jehu. Elisha became a close personal friend to Elijah, and In view of those things, it is unfair to say God cast him aside for his lapse.
v 18. God also dealt with Elijah’s personal feelings in a gentle way, as he revealed that there were 7000 other faithful ones in Israel who had not bowed to Baal or kissed the emblems of idolatry. This encouraged Elijah, and the whole account should encourage us, that he was a man of like passions as we are, James 5:17.
Elisha was wealthy with 11 ox drivers ahead of him. Elijah’s action gave him his choice. Elisha returned to make a farewell sacrifice and feast of his oxen to family and friends, perhaps lasting a week or more, before following Elijah. 

1 Kings 20

v 1-4. Ben-hadad the second, not the one King Asa of Judah hired, chapter 15, came with 32 city - state kings to besiege Samaria. He gave Ahab terms of giving him his silver and gold and even his wives and children. Ahab was so outnumbered he consented.
v 5-9. With such quick acceptance, Ben-hadad decided his terms were too easy, so he demanded to let his servants come in & take all the plunder they wanted. Ahab called in all the elders, and they agreed that he should not consent to that. He sent the messengers back with word that he would abide by the first agreement but not this.
v 13. An unnamed prophet came and told Ahab that the huge army would be delivered to him to show that God is the Lord. This not due to any of Ahab’s goodness.
v 10-12. Ben-hadad tried to intimidate Ahab with an oath by saying Israel was just handfuls of dust compared to his vast army, but Ahab bravely chided him not to boast of victory until he had gained it. Ben-hadad had the men prepare for battle while he and the other kings had a drinking party.
v 14-16. When Ahab was informed that he was to direct the battle, he called out 232 princes to lead the 7000 soldiers. He surprised attacked in the hot restful time of the day while the kings were drunken.
v 17-21. The princes went out first, and not knowing their motive, Ahab ordered them to be taken alive. Taking the Syrians by surprise, Israel inflicted heavy casualties on the soldiers, their horses and chariots, but Ben-hadad escaped on a horse.
v 22-25. The prophet came to Ahab and warned him to prepare, because the Syrians would return in the spring of the year. Meanwhile, Ben-hadad was advised that Israel had gods of the hills, so replace the 32 kings with regular army officers, assemble an army just like the first one, but fight in the plains.
v 26,27. Israel was so outnumbered their camp was like two little flocks of kids compared to the enemy. The two groups may have been a part of battle strategy.
v 28-30. The man of God returned and told Ahab that since the enemy trusted in gods of the plains,God would deliver Israel, so Ahab would know God was Lord. For some reason they camped for seven days, then Israel killed 100,000 Syrian footmen in one day. The rest retreated into the city of Aphek and a wall fell on 27,000 more.
v 31-34. Ahab should have destroyed Ben-hadad, but when he and his servants came out in sackcloth, indicating submission. Ahab called him a brother indicating he would accept a defense agreement against Assyria. He accepted restoration of his cities and access to cities of Damascus. After two great victories, Ahab was still not willing to trust the Lord. Not in the Bible but in record of Shalmanezer, three years later Ahab supplied 10,000 troops and 2000 chariots and joined Ben-hadad in defeating Assyrian Shalmanezer 3rd at Qarqar on the Orontes River in Aram. 
v 35-38. God commanded an unnamed prophet to have a neighbor smite him (with a weapon). He was too nice to do that, but it was the command of God, so a lion slew him. He found another man who would smite him, and in so doing injured him. Then he disguised himself with ashes on his face and waited for Ahab.
v 39-43. He protested that in a battle he was supposed to guard a prisoner or forfeit his life, but he let the man escape. In indicating the man got the judgment he deserved, Ahab was judging himself, just as David did when confronted by Nathan, 2 Sam. 12:1-7.  Then the prophet revealed himself and rebuked Ahab for not destroying Ben-hadad. As a result, Ahab’s own life and his people would be forfeited for the Syrians he let escape. Ahab returned to his home resentful and sullen, probably as much at himself as at the prophet.

1 Kings 21

v 1-4. Ahab had built a new palace and his landscape plans included a vegetable garden in the location of Naboth’s vineyard, and he was willing to pay extra to get it. However, Naboth was loyal to Hebrew law of inheritance and would not sell. Ahab respected this, but he wanted his own way so bad that he sulked and wouldn’t eat.
v 5-7. When Jezebel found out the reason for his pouting, she told him to eat and be merry, she would get it for him. His greed overcame his reasoning, & he allowed it.
v 8-10. In her wicked plan she sent letters in Ahab’s name to the officials of Naboth’s city with instruction to set a fast and give Naboth a prominent position in the city. They were also to set two scoundrels to appear on the scene and lie that Naboth had cursed God, punishable by stoning, and the King,
v 11-14. They knew this whole thing was wrong, but they feared the wrath of Jezebel if they resisted the apparent king’s order, so they fulfilled her commands, then reported back that Naboth was stoned and dead.
v 15,16. Without giving details, Jezebel told Ahab that Naboth was dead and he could take possession of the vineyard. Ahab didn’t ask, but he had to know she had caused the death. The land should still have stayed in the inheritance, but  2 Ki. 9:26 indicate his sons were killed too. Accepting it made Ahab just as guilty as she was.
v 17-20. God directed Elijah to Ahab while he was in Naboth’s garden taking possession, rebuking him for killing and possessing, then the consequence of it.
v 21,24. Ahab asked in 18:17, “Art thou he that troubleth Israel?” Now it is, “Hast thou found me, O mine enemy?” He had made himself the enemy of God. He probably thought some prophet would sooner or later confront him. Elijah firmly brings the word of God that all Ahab’s male descendants will be killed. He gives the same judgment that was given to Jeroboam, 14:11 and Baasha, 16:4, “He that dies in the city will the dogs eat and he that dieth in the field, shall the fowls of the air eat.”  He is told that dogs will eat Jezebel by the wall in Jezreel, 2 ki. 9:30-37.
v 25-27. Ahab is cited for his extreme wickedness, but he is a somewhat weak individual whose wickedness was instigated by Jezebel. This by no means excuses him. When he heard his condemnation, he was humbled and very repentant. We must assume this repentance was real, though he did turn from the Lord again.
v 28,29. Presumably God had Elijah tell Ahab that because of his repentance the destruction on his house would not be in his own day, but in the day of his son Joram, 2 Ki. 9:24-26. Jezebel did not repent and she was slain as prophesied.

1 kings 22

v 1-4.  From 2 Chr. 17 and 18:1-3 we know that Jehoshaphat was very rich and honorable,  but he made a marriage alliance with Ahab (His son Jehoram married Ahab’s daughter, 2 Chr. 21:6). This contributed to peace and other alliances with Ahab, but it lead to many problems. When he visited Ahab, he and those with him were honored by a great feast, which put him in a mood of cooperation. Ahab decided with his leaders that the time had come to take back Ramoth in Gilead from the Syrians. This was a chief city of Gad  east of Jezreel, 28 miles east of Jordan and 15 miles south of the Sea of Chinnereth. He invited Jehoshaphat to combine forces with him in battle and in view of their relationship, he readily accepted. 
v 5-8. Afterwards Jehoshaphat realized he should ask advice of the Lord. Ahab assembled 400 prophets who advised going. Jehoshaphat had enough spiritual insight that he asked for a prophet of God. Ahab was reluctant to call Michaiah, because he only prophesied what he didn’t want to hear. This is not unusual today, and spiritually, many people follow this kind of teacher, 2 Tim. 4:3. Jehoshaphat was not satisfied and persisted in wanting a prophet of the Lord.
v 9-12. Michaiah was summoned to where the kings were sitting in their robes at a threshing floor, an elevated area, and near the gate where business was transacted. Zedekiah fashioned horns of iron to illustrate pushing the enemy and destroying them, and all the other false prophets agreed.
v 13,14. The messenger to Michaiah cautioned him to agree with the other men, but he promised to speak what the Lord told him.
v 15,16. Michaiah agreed with the others with flippant sarcasm, but Ahab saw his motive and demanded a true answer in a sarcastic way.
v 17,18. Now Michaiah became serious and spoke of total defeat, with Israel being scattered like sheep without a shepherd, because their master would be gone. Instead of paying attention, Ahab just reminded Jehoshaphat that this man spoke evil of him.
v 19-23. Michaiah then told what the Lord had shown him in a vision. The Lord on His throne asked who would persuade Ahab to go and be defeated. After discussion, one spirit offered to go and be a lying spirit in the mouths of the prophets. The Lord knew that would work and dispatched the spirit to do that.
v 24,25. Zedekiah resorted to violence, striking Jehoshaphat on the cheek and disputing, asked how the word of the Lord had gone to him to Michaiah. Michaiah replied that he would find out when he went into an inner chamber to hide.
v 26-28. Ahab believed the lying prophet and stopped the exchange by commanding that Michaiah be thrown into prison until he returned in peace. Michaiah replied that if he returned in peace, the Lord hadn’t spoken by him. He called the attention of all the people assembled and observing at the gate, so they would know that this was the word of the Lord.
v 29-33. Jehoshaphat had no business siding with wicked Ahab and Israel in the first place, and definitely not after hearing the word of Michaiah, but he agreed to go to battle in his robe, while Ahab would be disguised. Much as American soldiers were told to mainly shoot the British officers at Bunker Hill, the king of Syria ordered that they concentrate on getting Ahab. He was probably angered that Ahab broke the treaty. They thought Jehoshaphat was Ahab, but when he cried out (possibly to God as well as aloud) and fled, the Syrians knew it wasn’t Ahab and quit pursuing him.
v 34-36. They hadn’t been able to locate Ahab, but he was shot at by an arrow shot at random, and guided by God to a vulnerable spot. Ahab had his driver take him aside and he was propped up, bleeding in his chariot facing the Syrians until he died in the evening. Then about sundown, the leaders ordered a dismissal and sent everyone back to their own homes and countries.
v 37-38. Ahab was taken back to Samaria and buried, and when the blood was washed out of his chariot, the dogs licked it up in the same place they had licked up the blood of Naboth, as prophesied in 21:19. His death also fulfilling 20:42.
v 39,40. Excavations have discovered many ivory items from Ahab’s treasures. In spite of his wickedness, the Lord had mercy on Israel and blessed his military skills. His son Ahaziah took his place, v 51-53. See more about him in 2 Chr. 18 and 19.
v 41-44. Jehoshaphat basically did what was right in the eyes of the Lord as Asa his father had done, and reigned a total of 25 years. He had a co-regency with Asa, his father three years because of Asa’s poor health, 15:23.  According to 2 Chr. 17:6, he removed the high places, and he must have at first, but they must have been rebuilt, and he did not remove those, as stated here and 2 Chr. 20:33. The peace which he established with Judah and Israel lasted 35 years.
v 45,46. More is said about Jehoshaphat in 2 Chr. 17-20 (See my notes there) and in the uninspired  book of Jehu. He removed the rest of the homosexuals which Asa had failed to remove out of the land.
v 47. More is said about war with Edom in Jehoram’s day, 2 Chr. 21:8-10.
v 48-50. Apparently he thought to do as Solomon and ship gold from Ophir, and joined this venture with wicked Ahaziah of Israel. He should have learned not to be “unequally yoked with unbelievers”, 2 Cor. 6:14, from his experience with Ahab. The Lord prevented this by breaking up his ships where they were built at Ezion-geber, and God sent the prophet Eliezer to rebuke him for this alliance and tell him why he lost his ships. The 49th verse implies that Jehoshaphat rebuilt the ships but would not let Ahaziah help this time. When he died, Jehoram reigned over Judah in his place.
v 51-53. Ahaziah only reigned two years over Israel, and it is well because he did evil like his father Ahab, Jezebel and Jeroboam. He served Baal and angered the Lord. His death and confrontation with Elijah are in 2 Ki. 1. He was the elder son of Ahab, and since he had no son, his brother Joram or Jehoram. son of Jezebel reigned.

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In the early 90's I started studing the bible by taking college courses, because I believe the Lord wanted me to become a pastor in a Nazarne Church. My goal has changed with all my studies. My wife and I have both joined the Catholic Church. I have read and compared numerous translations and commentaries in my many years of studying the bible. Some of these authorities disagree with each other. I come across information on studies and classes that I have taken 15 to 20 years before and I have no documentation of where it came from. Plus I have given away or returned many books for college classes that I have taken. So if I have failed to give someone the credit that is due them I ask for their forgiveness. The following is a list of translations and commentaries that I still have and use.

1. Apocrypha
2. Confessions of St Augustine
3. Divine Comedy of Dante (Henery Carytr)
4. King James Bible
5. LDS (Mormons)
6. Martin Luther
7. St John of the Cross
8. Budhist
9. Christian-King James
10. Hindu
11. Islam
12. Judaism
13. Sikh
14. Tao
15. Zoroastrian

OUR ETERNAL HOME by Richard W. Dehaan,
PROPHECY STUDY BIBLE by Tim Lahaye
READER'S DIGEST JESUS AND HIS TIMES by the Readers Digest Association Inc,
REFLECTING GOD STUDY BIBLE By Zondervan Corporation;
SAINT JOSEPH EDITION OF THE NEW AMERICAN BIBLE by Catholic Book Publishing Co.
SEVEN KEYS TO FAMILY POWER by Billy Joe Daugherty,
SIX HOURS ONE FRIDAY by Max Lacado,
THE AMPLIFIED BIBLE by the Zondervan Corporation;
THE BATTLE BELONGS TO THE LORD by Jocyce Meyer,
THE BIBLE PROMISE BOOK by Babbour Publishing Inc,
THE BOOK OF COMMON PRAYER by Charles Mortimer Guilbert
THE BOOK OF HOPE by Tyndale House Publishiers, Inc,
THE BORN AGAIN CATHOLIC by Albert H. Boudreau,
THE CASE FOR CHRIST by Lee Strobel,
THE CATHOLIC ANSWER BOOK by Peter MJ Stravinsiasi
THE COMPLETE BOOK OF BIBLE KNOWLEDGE by Mark D. Taylor;
THE DAY CHRIST DIED by Jim Bishop,
THE GREAT BIBLE QUESTION AND ANWERS BOOK by Playmore Inc
THE HOME BIBLE STUDY COURSE by Dr. Harold L. Wilmington;
THE KING JAMES BIBLE ARCHAIE WORDS DEFIND by David W. Daniel
THE KING JAMES BIBLE COMPANION by David W. Daniels;
THE KING JAMES STUDY BIBLE by Thomas Nelson Publishers,
THE LAYMAN’S BIBLE  DICTIONARY by George W. Knight and Rayburn W. Ray;
THE LAYMAN’S PARALLEL NEW TESTAMENT by Zondervan Bible Publisher
THE LAYMAN'S LIST by Calance Stucup
THE MESSAGE BIBLE by Eugone H. Peterson,
THE NEW AMERICAN BIBLE by World Catholic Press;
THE NEW AMERICAN BIBLE Saint Joseph Edition;
THE NEW STRONG’S EXHAUSTIVE CONCORDANCE OF THE BIBLE by James Strong LL. D S.T.D.;
THE RISKS AND REWARDS OF INTERRELIGIOUS DIALOGUE by Cardinal Francis Arinze
THE TRINITY by Rose Publish
THE VERY FIRST ESTER by Paul L. Maier,
THE WAY CATHOLIC LIVING BIBLE by Tyndale House Publishers;
UNCHRISTIAN by David Kennan and Gabe Lyon
UNDERSTANDING GOD’S LOVE by Ronald Greib
VINE’S EXPOSITORY DICTIONARY OF OLD AND NEW TESTAMENT WORDS By W. E. Vine;
WHAT’S SO SECRET ABOUT THE RAPTURRE? By Christian Record Services, INC
WHEN GOD WINKS AT YOU by Tomas Nelson
WILLMINGTON’S GUIDE TO THE BIBLE by Dr. H.L. Willmington,
WOMAN OF FAITH STUDY BIBLE by Zschech/Heillsong
YESTERDAY TODAY AND FOREVER by New Leaf Press
YOU WERE BORN FOR THIS by Anthony Wilhen