Book of 1 Kings ;\u00a0\u00a0<\/i><\/b>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Book of 1 Chronicles 1-28.<\/i><\/b>\u00a0<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n
1 Chronicles is names and genealogies for the first ten chapters and then covers some of the life of David and his desire and preparations to build the house for the Lord. It also covers the names and deeds of his mighty men, and his large number of officials and their jobs. So it isn\u2019t until the last chapter that the account becomes concurrent with 1 Kings.<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n
1 Kings\u00a0 One \u2026.(verses 1-53)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 We come now to the end of David\u2019s life\u2026.what was his great problem at this stage?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 1)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He was an old man and couldn\u2019t get warm.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0 About how old was he?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Samuel 5:4)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He was approximately 70 years old\u2026.he was thirty when he began to reign and he reigned for forty years.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How was this problem solved?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 2-4)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n His officials hunted around for a suitable young lady who was beautiful and of good reputation, who would look after him and keep his bed warm!<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 Which batch of sons did Adonijah belong to?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Samuel 3:25)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He was one of David\u2019s older sons\u00a0 who was born in Hebron, and was slightly younger than Absalom.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What do we see about Adonijah in verses 5-6?\u00a0 About what age would he have been?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He was handsome like his father, arrogant and probably very spoilt by his father, and would have been in his mid thirties by this time.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0 Who did he get onto his side when he decided to take his father\u2019s throne? \u00a0\u00a0(verse 7)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Joab, the major general, and Abiathar the priest\u2026.the army and the priesthood\u2026politics and religion.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Did all of David\u2019s officials go with Adonijah?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 8)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n No.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 9-53\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 Read this section right through and then say in two sentences what it is about\u2026..\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Adonijah made a feast to proclaim himself king and when David was told, he said that Solomon was to be officially anointed immediately. This was done in the sight of the people and Adonijah had to back down.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0 What does the situation in the kingdom of Israel seem to have been at this point in time?\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The king (David) was old and doddery and hadn\u2019t given any clear indication to the nation as to which son would be his successor. His eldest and third sons were both dead, with no further mention of his son Chileab, so Adonijah the fourth son, felt he had a right to the throne and set himself up to take it.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did Adonijah do to become king?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 7-10)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He called a feast and invited only certain people to it, (including Joab and Abiathar) to celebrate himself as king.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 Who were most concerned when they heard of this?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 11)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Nathan the prophet and Bathsheba\u00a0 Solomon\u2019s mother.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What did they decide to do?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 12-14)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Nathan told Bathsheba to go to the king and tell him what was happening, and see if that was what he wanted, and to remind him that he had said earlier that Solomon would be his successor. Then Nathan would come in while she was there and confirm her story.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What do you notice about both Bathseba\u2019s and Nathan\u2019s attitudes when they approached King David (who they both knew very well)?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 16 and 23)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n They were both very reverential and bowed themselves low before him.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did David say when he heard what had happened?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 28-35)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He roused himself and said that most certainly Solomon would be king! He called for Nathan, Zadok (another priest) and Benaiah his chief man, and get them to put Solomon on his own horse and take him through the streets of Jerusalem blowing the trumpet\u00a0 and announcing him as king and anoint him before all the people.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What happened when they did this?\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 36-40)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n All the people of the city gathered together with musical instruments and sang and danced for joy. At last they knew who would be the next king! They cried out, \u201cGod save King Solomon!\u201d and\u00a0 the whole city echoed with the noise of the festivities.<\/p>\n i.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did Adonijah and his guests do when they heard what was going on outside? (verses 41, 49-53)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n They quickly scattered\u2026Adonijah ran to the altar of God for protection until Solomon pardoned him.<\/p>\n 3.\u00a0\u00a0 Verse\u00a0 53\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 Why did David choose Solomon to be the next king?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Chronicles 22:9-10; 28:5-6)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Because God had told him that Solomon was to succeed him.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0 What was one of David\u2019s greatest desires in his life time?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Chronicles 17:1-2)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n His greatest desire was to build a temple for his God.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Why didn\u2019t he get this done?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Chronicles 17:4, 11-12; 28:3)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Because God told David He didn\u2019t want him to do it as he had been a man of war and killed many people, but that He would allow Solomon to build it as he would be a man of peace.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What did David have to be satisfied with?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Chronicles 22:1-6)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He prepared all the materials and gave Solomon the plans for it\u2026.this was all done publicly in front of the people.<\/p>\n e. \u00a0\u00a0What did David do after the initial anointing of Solomon to be king?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Chronicles 28:1-12)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He seemed to gather his strength and called a public meeting of all his officials, advisors and princes and told them how God had chosen Solomon of all his sons to be the next king, and how Solomon would build this magnificent edifice to the glory of God.<\/p>\n To follow the Lord and serve Him with a perfect heart all the days of his life and to erect this building.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What warning did he give him?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Chronicles 28:9c)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That if he stopped following\u00a0 the Lord, God would throw him aside.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Does this principle still hold good for today?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (John 6:37)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Yes, those who truly believe in the Lord Jesus will never forsake Him in their hearts (even if they do in their actions) and they will always come back to Him in the end. God NEVER leaves those who are truly His.<\/p>\n 1 Kings\u00a0 Two\u00a0 \u2026.(verses\u00a0 1-4)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 1.\u00a0\u00a0 Verses 1-4\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 Solomon had been crowned king on the spur of the moment as it were\u2026.what happened the next day?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Chronicles\u00a0 28:1-6; 29:22-24)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n David caused the public coronation and presentation to all the people of Solomon as king and the builder of this magnificent house for the Lord; Zadok was also presented as the high priest.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0 David had a private meeting with Solomon later\u2026.what did he tell him in verses 2-3?\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Be strong and show yourself a man! Keep the ways of the Lord and you will prosper.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0 When David wanted to build a house for the Lord, how did God turn this desire into a promise to David?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Chronicles 17:10c, 23-27)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n God said, \u201cYou want to build Me a house, but I am going to build you a house for ever\u201d (meaning a dynasty)<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What was the promise that God had specifically given concerning David?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Chronicles 17:10c-14, 24-25)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That there would always remain a son of David on the throne of Israel.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 When we consider the subsequent history of Israel and of mankind in general, how can this prophecy and promise be fulfilled?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Revelation 5:5; 22:16)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n We know that Israel and its kings did NOT follow the Lord and went into captivity\u2026.there was no kingly line set up after that time. We also know that Jesus Christ came from Mary who was descended from David and that He is specifically called the Root and Offspring of David and that His kingdom is a spiritual one that will NEVER end. So it is only in Jesus Christ that this prophecy can be fulfilled.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0 Read Jeremiah 33:15-26\u2026.what does God say in verse 15?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n I will cause a BRANCH of righteousness to grow up to David\u2026..He will bring judgement and righteousness in the land.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0 What picture did God use as confirmation of this promise in Jeremiah 33?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 20-21, 25-26)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The fact day always follows night and will never cease as long as time exists.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What will happen when day doesn\u2019t follow night?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Revelation 21:22-23; 22:5)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The old order has gone for ever\u2026.in the new heavens and new earth there is no sun , no night and time does not exist any more\u2026.the Triune God gives\u00a0 the light and His people will bask in it.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 5-12\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What did David go on to tell Solomon?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 5-9)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He told him to e kind to those who befriended him when he was on the run from Absalom, and to remember how Joab had killed two innocent men in a cold blooded murder each time. Then there was Shimei who had cursed him\u2026.David felt that justice had never been done to these men and charged Solomon to see to it.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0 How long had David\u00a0 reigned for?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 10-11)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Forty years altogether\u2026 seven years in Hebron, and thirty-three in Jerusalem.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What do we see about this beginning of Solomon\u2019s reign?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 12)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That the kingdom was established by the Lord and he had complete control\u00a0 with all Israel happy to accept him.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What is the fact about the throne of Israel that is often overlooked?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Chronicles\u00a0 28:5; 29:23)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That the throne of Israel was actually the throne of the Lord, not the throne of David, Solomon or any other king.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 Who was the rightful King of Israel that the people rejected?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Samuel 8:7, 19-20)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The Lord God of Israel, but the people demanded an earthly king so they could be like everyone else.<\/p>\n He magnified Solomon as king, in such a way as never was before or since.<\/p>\n 3.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 13-46\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What were the first things that Solomon had to deal with?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 5-6, 8-9, 24-25, 31, 42, 46)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Solomon had never felt easy with Adonijah since his effort at taking the throne, and when he went to Bathsheba with his request instead of directly to Solomon it was the last straw! The king realised the danger of these men who had tried to set themselves up and he commanded Benaiah to kill him that day!<\/p>\n b.\u00a0 Abiathar the priest was one of Adonijah\u2019s supporters and advisers\u2026.what did Solomon do with him?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 26-27)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He told him his priestly job was finished and to get back to his fields if he wanted to stay alive.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did this show (even if Solomon was unaware of it) ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 27)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The prophecy concerning Eli\u2019s priestly line was fulfilled.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What had been Joab\u2019s position with David? What did he do now that Adonijah was dead?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 28; 2 Samuel 8:16)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Joab had been the captain of David\u2019s army and a very hard man\u2026.now he fled to the altar of the Lord and grabbed the horns of the altar.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What happened to him there?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 29-34)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Solomon told Benaiah to kill him for the bad deeds he had done in his lifetime in murdering Abner and Amasa.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0 What about Shimei, the man who had cursed David publicly?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 36-46)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Solomon gave him a chance\u2026.told him to go to live in Jerusalem and never leave the city on the pain of death. He did this but got careless after three years, and left the city looking for runaway servants, so Solomon ordered his execution.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What could the people of Israel see in Solomon\u2019s dealing with these people?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 46c)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That justice had been done and they respected him for it, and his kingdom was further established.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What can we learn from these things?\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That sometimes there are unpleasant things that need to be dealt with and they must be done at the first opportunity. There is no point in letting things drag on as they only get worse.<\/p>\n 1 Kings\u00a0 Three\u2026.(verses 1-28)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 1\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-3\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What does verse 1 tell us that Solomon did?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He made a treaty with Pharaoh king of Egypt, married his daughter and took her back to Jerusalem.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0 How did this line up with God\u2019s instructions for the people of Israel?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Deuteronomy 7:1-4)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n It didn\u2019t! God had specifically told the Israelis that they were not to intermarry with the heathen nations.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What were the dangers of doing this? Why did God forbid it?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Deuteronomy 7:3-4, 6)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The dangers were that the ungodly partner would drag the ungodly one away from worshipping the Lord to worshipping idols.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 Does this principle still hold good for Christians\u00a0 today?\u00a0\u00a0 What does Paul have to say about it? \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0(2 Corinthians 6:14-16)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Yes, it still applies today! Paul says that believers are not to be unequally yolked together with unbelievers in ANYTHING\u2026..marriage, business or pleasure\u2026.because the two cannot mix or work together amicably, no more than oil or water can be mixed! The ungodly will always prevail (because it is disobedience to God\u2019s rule) and wear down the godly person\u2019s convictions.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 Remembering that Egypt is symbol of the world system we live in, what is verse one a picture of for us today?\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Solomon is like a picture of of a believer who isn\u2019t trusting God to look after him, but runs to the world for and tying himself up with a worldly system. Not only that but intermarrying with a non-Christian\u00a0 is\u00a0 taking them into one\u2019s breast and being, the same as taking idols into God\u2019s temple.<\/p>\n Solomon loved the Lord and followed the ways of David his father, but we will see later on how well it worked. God knows how frail we are, and never makes a rule without a good reason for it.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0 So what could we say about Solomon after reading verse 1 again?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He made the first mistake in even GOING to Egypt, the second one in TRUSTING Egypt, and the third one in becoming UNITED to Egypt (both politically and in marriage)<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 4-15\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What did Solomon do in verse 4?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He went to the place of sacrifice and offered hundreds of animals to the Lord.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0 What happened to Solomon while he was at Gibeon?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 5)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He had a dream in which God asked him what he wanted out of life\u2026..he could have anything he asked for!<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did he ask for ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 6-9)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He asked for wisdom, knowledge and understanding to reign wisely over the people of Israel\u2026..he knew there would be many sticky situations that would need more than mere human knowledge.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 How did God feel at this request?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 10)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He was very pleased that Solomon had asked for this.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What else did God give him?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 11-13)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He said He would also give him riches and honour, and a long life if he continued in God\u2019s ways.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0 What was one thing that Solomon didn\u2019t ask for that we would do well to ask God for today?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Deuteronomy 6:5)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n To continue to love the Lord his (and ours) God with all his heart, soul and might.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Solomon asked for that which was good, but it was not the best\u2026\u2026what are some of the things that he said about wisdom that we would do well to take heed to today? <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Proverbs 2:6\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Wisdom comes from the Lord alone.<\/p>\n Proverbs 4:5-9\u00a0 Wisdom is the main thing to aim for and to get\u2026.never leave it or forget it.<\/p>\n Proverbs 9:10\u00a0\u00a0 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What does James tell us about God\u2019s wisdom?\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0(James 1:5-6)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n We are to ask God for wisdom (continually) and He will give it freely and ungrudgingly.<\/p>\n 3.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 16-28\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What was this dilemma which faced Solomon\u00a0 at this time?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 16-23)<\/i> <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Two women came to him with their babies, one dead and the other alive, both claiming that the live baby was their\u2019s.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0 How did Solomon solve the problem?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 24-27)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He ordered a sword to be brought and said to divide the living child knowing that the real mother would sooner part with it than see it die. The mother who didn\u2019t care had to give it to the other.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did this incident serve to do?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 28)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Everyone in Israel heard of it and recognised that Solomon had the wisdom of God and the he was a wise king with good judgement.<\/p>\n 1 Kings\u00a0 Four\u2026..(verses 1-34)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 1\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-20 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What is the list of people in the first six verses?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n These were the princes which Solomon had as head of the different departments of his kingdom.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0 Which one was closest to the king?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 5b)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Zabud was the chief officer and the friend of the king.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How did Solomon get the provisions he needed for all his staff and the court officials?(verse 7)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He appointed twelve men to be responsible for one month a year to bring in all the food needed.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What do verses 8-19 tell us? <\/b><\/p>\n They are the list of the men with the areas they covered.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What do you see about the son of Abinadab,\u00a0 and Ahimaaz?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 11 & 15)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n They were both married to daughters of Solomon, making them the king\u2019s sons-in-law.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0What do you see about the land of Israel at this stage of Solomon\u2019s reign?\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0(verse 20)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n It was peaceful and prosperous with a large population\u2026.probably the best time of Israel\u2019s history.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 21-25\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 How much food did Solomon\u2019s household go through in one day?\u00a0 (verses 22-23)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n A tremendous amount of flour and meal for breads etc, 30 beef, 100 mutton, venison of various types and poultry as well.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0 What was the extent of Solomon\u2019s kingdom?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 24)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n From the borders of Egypt in the west through to the Euphrates in the east\u2026.a vast kingdom.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What prophecies did this fulfill?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Genesis 15:18; Deuteronomy 11:22-25)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n God had promised this to Abraham when he came from Ur into Canaan, and then Moses had told the people as they were about to enter the land at the end of their epic journey from Egypt that if they wholly followed the Lord this would happen.<\/p>\n 3\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 26-34\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What rule had God specifically laid down for a king with regard to having large numbers of horses?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Deuteronomy 17:14-20 )<\/i> <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The king was not to multiply large numbers of horses.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0 Why do you think this would be?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Psalm 33:17-18)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n There was no need for a king who was trusting in the Lord for safety to have the expense (and work) of looking after many horses. David could say that a horse was useless for safety and that God watches over His people at all times.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Who supported Solomon\u2019s great number of horses and camels?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 27- 28)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The officers gathered what was necessary from the people of their area one month a year to provide what was necessary\u2026\u2026it was a form of tax.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What do we learn about Solomon ? Where did this knowledge come from?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 29-34)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That he was exceedingly wise, far wiser than any other man who had lived before him and that people came from all over the world to hear his wisdom, and the things he talked about.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What were some of the things that he was noted for?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 32-33)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n His proverbs and songs were famous and there was nothing that he didn\u2019t know about natural history.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0 What are we told in the New Testament about this sort of wisdom?\u00a0\u00a0 What do non-Christians do with this knowledge?\u00a0 (Romans 1:19-21)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That when we learn it and see it around us, we are to give God thanks and praise for His creation; people who are non-Christians call it evolution or mother nature, and try to explain away God as the Creator.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What sort of wisdom should the believer be seeking after?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Corinthians 1:24-31) <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Unless our knowledge includes knowing Christ and about His crucifixion, the rest of our knowledge<\/p>\n (education and degrees)\u00a0 is pointless and does nothing for us except to puff us up in pride. There aren\u2019t many people high up in this world who know Christ\u2026.those who are considered of no consequence and who are despised by those in high places are more likely to be wise in the real wisdom of knowing Christ.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What was Paul\u2019s aim in life?\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0(1 Corinthians 2:2-4)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n To know nothing but Christ and what His crucifixion meant\u2026.he didn\u2019t depend on fancy words and wonderful presentations\u2026.he depended on the power of God and the hidden wisdom from Him.<\/p>\n i.\u00a0\u00a0 Does it seem then,\u00a0 that God only wants people to follow Him in blind faith, not knowing anything about other things? (Psalm 77:11-19;\u00a0 Romans 1:19-20; 1 Corinthians 2:9-12)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n No, God wants us to understand more of His creation, both seen and unseen, so we can give Him the glory for His marvellous works.<\/p>\n j.\u00a0 What are we told in the New Testament about this sort of wisdom?\u00a0\u00a0 What do non-Christians do with this knowledge?\u00a0 (Romans 1:19-21; 2 Timothy 3:7)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That when we learn it and see it around us, we are to give God thanks and praise for His creation; non-Christians are always learning new things but never come to know the truth of God, and they don\u2019t give Him any credit for anything He has done!<\/p>\n 1 Kings\u00a0 Five\u2026..(verses 1-18)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 1\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-18 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 When did Hiram\u2019s association with David begin?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 1; 2 Samuel 5:7, 10-12)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Right back when David first took Jerusalem from the Jebusites and made it his home base.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0 What did Hiram do for David then?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Samuel 5:11)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He supplied timber to him to build his house.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did Solomon get in touch with Hiram\u00a0 for?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 2-6)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n To get cedar and fir timber from him for this temple he was going to build in Jerusalem.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What else did he ask for? \u00a0 (2 Chronicles 2:7-9)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Someone to come and assist (probably to teach as he worked) in engraving and carving work and also to do the fabric work.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What did Solomon provide?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 11; 2 Chronicles 2:17-18 )<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He conscripted all the foreigners who were living in Jerusalem\u00a0 and sent them up north to work in the forest and quarries \u2026.also 30,000 Israelis had to work, taking a month to work in Lebanon and two months at home at a time. Solomon also had to provide food for Hiram\u2019s workers as they couldn\u2019t work in their fields while they were working in the forest.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How did Hiram get the logs from Lebanon to Israel?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 9)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He took them by sea in rafts, and then transported them overland to Jerusalem.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0 What else was going on while the timber was being transported?\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 15-18)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Large stones were being cut and squared in the quarries and being sent down to Jerusalem overland.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0 Have a look at a map and see where these places are situated\u2026.about how far did they have to travel?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n A bit over 100 miles, so it was a massive undertaking.<\/p>\n i.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How long did it take to get the temple built?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Kings 6:37-38)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Seven years altogether.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What sort of building are believers building?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Peter 2:5)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n They are building a spiritual building by the sort of life they are living, on the foundation of Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0 How long does this building take to build?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n A life time! As long as God gives us to live on earth.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What sort of test does this building have to stand?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Corinthians 3:12-15)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The test of God\u2019s judgement fire\u2026.will it burn up or will it come through the flames?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What stages do we see going\u00a0 on in Solomon\u2019s project ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 6, 11,15, 18)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n It took PREPARATION, then HARD WORK. Then there was FITTING\u00a0 the stones TOGETHER to make the building rise up into a place of sacrifice and praise.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 How can we relate these points to our Christian life today? (2 Timothy 2:1-6, 15; 3:14-17)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n We have to PREPARE our lives by reading and studying God\u2019s word and then we must WORK at it by putting IT INTO PRACTICE so we can\u00a0 be fruitful for God in praise and thanksgiving.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0 What foundation must our spiritual lives be built on?\u00a0 (1 Corinthians 3:9-11)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n There is only one foundation for the believer and that is the foundation of Jesus Christ\u2026.without Him our building will come to nothing!<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What is the stumbling stone to unbelievers building anything in their lives to get to heaven?\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Peter 2:4, 6-8) <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Jesus Christ is the living Stone which men refuse to have anything to do with; He is the One who is the Headstone of the corner, but becomes a Stone of offence to unbelievers, and they stumble over Him, thus building the house of their life on the sand which has no foundation.<\/p>\n 1 Kings\u00a0 Six\u2026..(verses 1-38)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 1\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verse\u00a0 1<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What happened to the tabernacle that Moses had built in the wilderness?\u00a0 (1 Chronicles 21:29; 1 Kings 3:4)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n It was still in existence after 400 years, and was standing in Gibeon. This was the main place for offering sacrifices to God.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Read the story in 1 Chronicles 21 of David\u2019s sin in numbering the people and the result of it\u2026..<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n verse 14\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What was the punishment for this?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 A pandemic disease<\/p>\n Verse 16\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did David see? God\u2019s angel with a drawn sword over Jerusalem.<\/p>\n Verse 18\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What was God\u2019s command?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To set up an altar in Ornan\u2019s threshingfloor.<\/p>\n c. Where was the exact site of the temple that Solomon built?\u00a0 (1 Chronicles 22:1; 2 Chronicles 3:1)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n It was in Jerusalem on the spot\u00a0 of\u00a0 MountMoriah<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What was the significance of this place of Mount Moriah?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Genesis 22:2-24)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n MountMoriah was the place where God told Abraham top offer his only son as a sacrifice\u2026.it was also the spot where David had built an altar to atone for his sin in numbering Israel.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What most significant event in the history of man took place in this same area?\u00a0\u00a0 (John 19:16-18)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The sacrifice and death of God\u2019s only begotten Son,\u00a0 Jesus Christ .<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How long had Solomon been king when he started this project? What time frame in Israel\u2019s history did it begin?\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 1)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n It was in Solomon\u2019s fourth year, and the 480th<\/sup> year since Israel left Egypt.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0 What was David\u2019s dream for this building?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Chronicles 22:5)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That it would stand out in beauty, magnificence and glory above all other buildings.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses 2-7\u00a0 \u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a. Can you work out the size of this building, remembering that 1 cubit is 45 cm? (verses 2-3)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n It was to be 27 metres (90 feet) by 9 metres (30 feet) wide by 13.5\u00a0 metres (45 feet) high<\/p>\n b.\u00a0 What interesting facts about the construction of this building do we see in verse 7?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n It was built of great blocks of squared stone which were all pre-cut, and it was fitted together with no hammering or noise at all\u2026.in perfect peace and precision.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How can we liken this to the way God is building His house\u2026temple\u2026city today?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0(Ephesians 2:19-22)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n God\u2019s people are His house\u2026.He is building this house, placing each person one by one into it with care and precision, each in His time and giving each person peace with Him, and if they truly walk in His ways they will also experience His peace.<\/p>\n 3.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses 8-38\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What was the basic construction of this building?\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 7, 18, 21-22)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n It was built of stone and was then lined with carved timber which in turn was overlaid with gold. It had timber beams and ceilings, posts and doors and these too were overlaid with gold. The beautiful carvings were of angels, birds and flowers.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0 What did he make for the \u201cmost holy place\u201d and how big were they? (verses 23-28)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He made two large cherubim (angels) and their wings were 2.25 metres long and they were placed so their wings stretched across the room, touching the walls on each side and each other in the middle\u2026.the overall width was 9 metres (15 feet)<\/p>\n c. What was the floor made of?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0(verse 30)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n It was made of timber and then covered with a gold overlay.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What else decorated the building ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 3:6)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Precious stones were inset to give added beauty.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What divided off the different sections of the temple?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 3:14)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He made a heavy curtain embroidered with angels in purple, blue and red.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0 What was this similar to?\u00a0 (Exodus 26:31)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The curtains that were made for the tabernacle in Moses\u2019 time.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What had survived of the tabernacle?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 5: 2,5,9) <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The ark of the covenant\u00a0 had survived and also the utensil for making the offerings.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0 What was God most concerned about the temple for Solomon and his people?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 12-13)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He was more concerned that His people would walk in His ways and obey His Word.<\/p>\n i.\u00a0 How do you think this applies for today?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Hebrews 10:1,16-25)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n There is no need for a physical temple today with its continual offerings, as Jesus Christ has made the supreme offering for sin, and those who accept this are to be sincere in holding fast the things they have received, loving each other and not\u00a0 neglecting meeting together for encouragement and praise to God.<\/p>\n \u00a0Kings\u00a0 Seven\u2026..(verses 1-51)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 1\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-12\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 How long did it take to complete the building of the temple?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Kings 9:38)<\/i> <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Seven years.<\/p>\n b. When this job was completed what did Solomon continue to build ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 1-2)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He built his own house, another\u00a0 in Lebanon and\u00a0 one\u00a0 for his wife, the princess from Egypt.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How long\u00a0 did it take to complete all these?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 1)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Thirteen years.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What does verse 7 tell us about his own place? <\/b><\/p>\n He built a porch on the front where his throne was placed\u2026..this was where the people could come for judgement.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What style were these houses built in?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 8-12)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Similar to the temple\u2026.being built of square stone blocks, covered in timber planks and then overlaid in gold. They were decorated with precious stones and beautiful carved work. Solomon\u2019s porch had great tall pillars supporting its height.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 13-51\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 The craftsman who oversaw the work was not King Hiram, but another man of the same name \u2026.what was he a master in doing? Where did he do this work?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 14-15, 40<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He knew all about casting brass, and did this work in the plain of Jordan where the ground was soft for moulding.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0 What was the size of these pillars that he cast?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 15-16)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n They were 8.10 mtrs long and 5.40 mtrs around.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did he decorate these pillars with ?\u00a0\u00a0 How much higher did this make them?\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 16-18)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He added another 2.23 mtrs on top so they were now 10.35 mtrs high and decorated them with chains, carved pomegranates and lilies and wreaths for beauty.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What was the purpose of the \u201csea\u201d and \u201clavers\u201d that were made?\u00a0 How many were made?\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 4:6 \u2026.see modern translation)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The \u201csea\u201d\u00a0 was a very large bath\u2026.more like a swimming pool\u2026. for the priests to wash in and the \u201clavers\u201d were vats for washing the meat offerings and utensils, bowls etc \u2026..there was one bath and ten vats.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What was the size of the \u201csea\u201d, and how was it set up?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 23-26)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n This bath (or pool) was 4.5 mtrs across and 13.5mtrs around it. It was sitting on a base of twelve oxen place in a square, three on each side, with their backsides inwards, and faces outwards. It was as thick as a man\u2019s handbreadth (about 8 inches) and the edge was like the brim of a cup carved with lilies all around it.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0 What were the lavers (vats or wash basins) like?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 27-39)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The lavers each sat on a base that was 1.8 mtrs square and 1.35 mtrs\u00a0 high. These bases had wheels and could be moved around, and around their top edges were carved angels, lions and palm trees. The laver bowls were set on these bases.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What else was Hiram responsible for making?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 40, 44-47)<\/i> <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n All the pots, shovels, basins etc that were used in the sacrifices and for outside work which he made of brass\u2026..the amount of brass used was never tallied up. He also made the utensils and basins for the inside of the temple and the Holy Place of gold. The doors were overlaid with gold and swung on hinges of gold.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The temple was now complete, and it was more magnificent and beautiful than anything that had ever been built before\u2026..how can we liken this to God\u2019s spiritual temple, His people?\u00a0 \u00a0(Ephesians 5:27; Colossians1:22; Jude 1:24 )<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n God sees His people, His church, as being glorious without any sort of blemish, holy and unblameable, faultless, clothed in the righteousness of Christ. The world still sees the church in the corruptness of humanity and its faults but this is not how God sees us, praise the Lord!<\/p>\n 1 Kings\u00a0 Eight\u2026..(verses 1-53)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 1\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-11\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 The temple was now complete\u2026.what was Solomon\u2019s next concern?\u00a0 (verses 1-2)<\/i> <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n To bring the Ark of the Covenant and all the utensils that went with it to the temple and put them in the right places.<\/p>\n b. What was this Ark of the Covenant, and what was its origin ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Exodus 37:1-5)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n God told Moses to make this while they were in the wilderness when the tabernacle was made 491 years earlier. It was a box made of acacia wood (45 inches long x 27 inches wide x 27 inches high) and overlaid with gold with a moulding around the top edge of it. There were four golden rings set by each corner at the top to have wooden rods (also overlaid with gold) put through them so it could be carried by the priests. It was to hold sacred relics which symbolised God\u2019s covenant and promise with His people, and was always to be kept in the Holy \u00a0 Place of the Tabernacle.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What had originally been kept in the Ark?\u00a0\u00a0 (Deuteronomy 31:26; Hebrews 9:4-5)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n It had a golden pot of manna (as a memorial of how God provided for them), Aaron\u2019s rod that had budded miraculously, and the stone tablets that had the ten commandments written on them, as well as the book of the law that Moses had written.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What was left there now after this long period of time?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 9)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Only the two tablets of stone with the ten commandments on them.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 Where on the temple was the Ark placed?\u00a0 (verse 6)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n It was placed in the Most Holy Place under the outstretched wings of the giant cherubims that Solomon had made.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0 How did God want the Ark to be transported from place to place?(1 Chronicles 15:2, 15)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n It was to be carried by four Levites holding the rods in the rings at shoulder height.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0 What happened in David\u2019s time when the Ark was being taken by a different means? What does this show us?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Samuel 6:3-7)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n David was taking the Ark on a cart pulled by oxen, and when a man steadied it with his hand as it went over a rough spot, he was struck dead by the Lord for violating the Ark. This showed how seriously God took the Ark as a symbol of His Covenant, and that it was a Holy Icon.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0 Who took part in all this ceremonial pageant?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 5:11-13)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n There was a large contingent of singers and instrumentalists all clothed in white singing and playing praises to the Lord.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0 What happened as the priests left the Ark in its place, and the singers were finished?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 10-11; 2 Chronicles 5:13c)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The cloud of God\u2019s presence came down and filled the temple\u2026.it looked like a cloud from the outside, but the inside was filled with brilliant glorious light so bright that no-one could stay there.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 12-53\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What did Solomon tell the people at this dedication of the temple?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 12-20)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He reminded them how his father had wanted so badly to build this place for the worship of God, and how God had told him he was not to, but that his son would.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0 What was the focal\u00a0 point of the temple?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 21)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The Ark of the Covenant.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What When Solomon prayed before them all, what did he start with?\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 23-24)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The greatness and uniqueness of the God of heaven\u2026\u2026there is no other god in the universe.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What characteristics did Solomon mention?\u00a0 (verse 23b)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n His faithfulness and mercy in keeping the Covenant,\u00a0 and His keeping power, in word and in deed.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What did Solomon remember concerning\u00a0 himself?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 25b)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That he was to walk before the Lord, just as his father David had.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0 What fact of God did Solomon mention in verse 27?\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n That God doesn\u2019t need anywhere on earth to live\u2026.the universe itself is too small to contain Him!<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Solomon indicate that the people\u2019s greatest need was?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0(verse\u00a0 30)<\/i> <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Forgiveness for their sins.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How many verses can you find in this chapter that show this?\u00a0 \u00a0<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Four at least\u2026 verses 34, 36, 39, 50.<\/p>\n i.\u00a0 What do people have to DO to be forgiven by God?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 35b, 46-48, 1 John 1:9)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n They have to repent\u00a0 (agree with God)\u00a0 and confess their sins\u00a0 to the Lord, then change their ways.<\/p>\n j.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What fact about sin is mentioned in verse 46, that is still relevant today?\u00a0\u00a0 (Romans3:23)<\/i> <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n There is no person on earth who has not sinned\u2026\u2026 ALL have sinned!<\/p>\n k.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0Is this a oncer only?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n No, it must be done continually as we are always prone to sin.<\/p>\n 3.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 54-66\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What had Solomon\u2019s posture been while he was praying publicly?\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 6:12-13)<\/i> <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He had built a temporary platform 1.35 metres high so all the people could see him and he stood on this while speaking to them. But when it came to speaking to the Lord, he kneeled down before Him and the people, and lifted his hands towards heaven while praying.<\/p>\n b. What did Solomon do after he had prayed ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 55-61)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He stood up again and told the people that God would only bless them while they walked in\u00a0 His ways.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 If God\u2019s people do their part, what does it show other people around them?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 60)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That the Lord is the God of all the earth, and there is no other God like Him.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 How do we know that God had heard Solomon\u2019s prayer and dedication of the temple?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n (2 Chronicles 7:1)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Because fire fell from heaven upon the waiting sacrifices and consumed them up and the glory of the Lord filled the house so much so, that the priests could not go inside.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What effect did this have on the people watching?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ( 2 Chronicles 7:3)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n They all bowed down and worshipped and praised the Lord saying, \u201cFor He is good and His mercy endures forever!\u201d<\/p>\n f.\u00a0 How big was the sacrifice that Solomon made?\u00a0\u00a0 Where was it burned? Try to imagine the scene\u2026..\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ( verse 64; 2 Chronicles 7:5-7)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He sacrificed 22,000 bullocks and 120,000 sheep\u2026.it boggles the mind! The animals would all have had to come in, in separate herds and flocks. No wonder the sacrificing and feasting lasted for seven days! The centre of the front court was used for sacrificing, and one wonders where the killing was done and where the meat was taken to!<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0 What else was going on while the sacrificing was being done?\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 7:6)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n There were choirs of Levites singing psalms and playing instruments, and all the people were praising the Lord all week. What a tremendous paeon of praise was ascending to God\u2026.there has probably never been such a gathering praising the Lord in the history of mankind before or since until the coming day when all believers will sing before the Lord!<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0 What will the climax of all creation be?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Philippians 2:9; Revelation 5:8-14)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The time when EVERY knee that has ever been on earth will bow before Jesus Christ and proclaim Him Lord of ALL to the glory of God.<\/p>\n It went on for three weeks\u2026..one week for the dedication of the altar, another week for feasting and rejoicing, and the third week for winding down the proceedings.<\/p>\n 1 Kings\u00a0 Nine\u2026..(verses 1-28)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 1\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-9\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 God had put his seal on this new temple by filling it with His glory at the time of dedication\u2026.what did He show Solomon now?\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 1-2)<\/i> <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He spoke to Solomon again as He had the first time at Gibeon.<\/p>\n b. What did He tell Solomon this time ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 3)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That He had heard Solomon\u2019s prayer and had accepted the new temple as built for Him.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What was God\u2019s promise to Solomon? What do you notice about this promise?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 4-5)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n IF Solomon would walk before the Lord all the days of His life, THEN God would establish his kingdom for ever. This promise was conditional as so many of God\u2019s promises are.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What would happen if Solomon or his descendants turned away from God and followed other gods?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 6-9)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Then God\u2019s favour would cease from Israel and his judgement would fall upon them instead\u2026.the land and this new temple would be damaged and spoiled and all surrounding nations would know it was because they weren\u2019t following their God.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 God made a similar promise to David, but David\u2019s was an unconditional promise\u2026 \u201cas the day follows the night\u201d (Jeremiah 33:15-26<\/i>). We see this promise fulfilled in our Lord Jesus Christ. There are two different genealogies of Jesus Christ\u00a0 given in the New Testament, but both come down from David\u2026.both Joseph\u2019s and Mary\u2019s. What do you notice after David in each case?\u00a0\u00a0 ( Matthew 1:6-7; Luke 2:4; 3:31)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n Joseph\u2019s lineage came down from Solomon while Mary\u2019s (the mother of Jesus) came from another one of David\u2019s sons\u2026,.Nathan. The line of the Lord Jesus did NOT come from Solomon thus fulfilling the above prophecy.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Why do you think that David\u2019s promise was unconditional and Solomon\u2019s wasn\u2019t?\u00a0 (Psalm 27:8; Ecclesiastes 2:15-17)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n God knew each of their hearts and the future of each of them\u2026.He knew that David sought for Him with all his heart, while Solomon said he was no better than a fool and found everything just futile and a pain, trusting\u00a0 in his works rather than in God. God KNEW that David would always follow Him in his heart while Solomon would turn away from Him in his old age.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 10-28\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 How long had it taken Solomon to complete his building programme?\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 10; 1 Kings6:38c; 7:1)<\/i> <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Twenty years, seven for the temple and thirteen for his own palaces.<\/p>\n b. What did Solomon give Hiram as payment for all his help? What did Hiram think of this?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 11-13)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Solomon gave him twenty cities in the area of Galilee and\u00a0 Hiram didn’t like them much!<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What other building programme did Solomon do?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse\u00a0 15)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem and these other cities.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What are we told about this city of Gezer?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Judges 1:28-29)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n When Israel had gone into the land\u00a0 500 years earlier, the town of Gezer was left with its Canaanite population and it had stayed separate all these years, but the people had to pay taxes to Israel. Now we see that Pharaoh went against it and destroyed the inhabitants and then gave the place to his daughter, Solomon\u2019s wife. Solomon rebuilt the city, along with many others all over his vast kingdom.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What did Solomon rebuild or repair these cities for?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ( verse 19)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n To house his men of war, the chariots and all these horses that he was collecting.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did he do with these foreigners that were living in the land?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 21)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He taxed them and used them to do all his menial tasks, all the dirty work\u2026.they were virtual slaves.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Who became his officers and overseers?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 22-23)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Those who were capable among his own people.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What odd statement do we see in 2 Chronicles 8:11?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 24)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Solomon took his heathen wife out of the area near the temple into her own house because he said where she had been living was now holy because the ark of the Lord had been installed there.<\/p>\n i.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0What does this indicate?\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ( 1 Kings 11:8; Nehemiah 13:25b-26)<\/i> <\/b><\/p>\n That she had taken her gods with her out of Egypt and her manner of life was not compatible with the principles of the temple.<\/p>\n j.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How often did Solomon offer sacrifices to the Lord?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ( verse 25)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n Three times a year.<\/p>\n k.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How and where did Solomon get his gold from?\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ( verses 26-28)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n Solomon had built a navy of ships and got Hiram\u2019s sailors to man them and sail down to Ophir in Africa for the gold that he needed.<\/p>\n 1 Kings\u00a0 Ten\u2026..(verses 1-29)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 1\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-13 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b>Was the Queen of Sheba a real person? Look at Isaiah 60:6\u2026.what was this country noted for?\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 1; Matthew 12:42)<\/i> <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Yes, she was, Jesus mentioned her to His disciples. Sheba seemed to be very rich in gold, spices and incenses, so the Queen\u00a0 would have been a lady of means herself.<\/p>\n b. Why did she come to see Solomon ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 1)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n She was curious about the stories she had heard about his greatness and magnificence and wanted to see it for herself. She also had a great many questions in her mind that she wanted to ask him.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What does verse 1 indicate that she might have asked him?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Solomon was famous and known for what the Lord had done in making him rich and powerful, so she could have been asking questions concerning his God\u2026.they were difficult things from her point of view and she wanted to know the answers.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 The Queen of Sheba was obviously a wealthy monarch in her own right\u2026.how did she feel after seeing Solomon\u2019s magnificence?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 4-5)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n She had no more spirit left in her\u2026.she was utterly astounded!<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What was her conclusion at the end of her visit?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 6-9)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n Everything is so much greater than I expected! Your people are so happy! Your wisdom is truly great! Your God is so wonderful and blesses Israel immeasurably\u2026.He has given you so much wisdom to do right judgement and justice!<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What sort of presents had she brought to King Solomon ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 10)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Gold, spices and precious stones\u2026.a tremendous amount of spices.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did he give to her?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 13)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Whatever she admired and asked for.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did Hiram\u2019s ships bring in for Solomon\u00a0 What did he make out of them?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 12)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Gold, precious stones and timber from almug trees that he used for making more pillars and stairs for the temple and also for making musical instruments for his singers.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 14-29\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What came into Solomon\u2019s hands continually?\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 14)<\/i> <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Gold in great quantities, spices, ivory, silver etc<\/p>\n b. Where did all this merchandise come from?\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 15)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n From other countries\u2026.trade was brisk and the merchants all did well. Kings and rulers from other countries all brought their goods to Jerusalem.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did Solomon use the gold for?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses\u00a0 16-7; 21)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n For his soldiers\u2026.he made targets and shields of gold for the army, and hung them up in the house of the forest of Lebanon. Imagine the sight! Golden shields hanging in rows!! He also made all his drinking cups of gold\u2026.silver was considered as nothing with all the gold that was around.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What else did Solomon make for himself? Describe it\u2026\u2026\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 18-20)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He made a large throne for himself out of ivory (very rare) and then overlaid it with gold. It was at the top of\u00a0 six steps that had a lion at each side (12 lions altogether, presumably made of gold too) with a golden footstool for his feet.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 How often did his ships come into port? What else did they bring?\u00a0\u00a0 ( verse 22)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n They came in every three years and brought apes and monkeys (for pets) and peacocks (for beauty) as well as more gold, spices, horses and mules, armour and clothing\u2026.everything the heart could wish for!<\/p>\n f. Where did a lot of his horses come from?\u00a0 What else came from there? (verses 26, 28-29)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n A lot of them came from Egypt, and pure white linen fabric also came from there. Trade was brisk between the two countries.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What else did people come to Solomon for?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 23-24)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n To hear his wisdom, knowledge, stories and proverbs\u2026.people came from all over the world to listen.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What do we see happening in all this wealth, knowledge and wisdom that Solomon had.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0(1 Kings 3:11-13)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n God was fulfilling his unconditional promise to Solomon\u2026.He had promised to give him all these things and this is the result.<\/p>\n i.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Solomon had everything that heart could wish for\u2026..did this make him happy? What was his summing up of it all?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ( Ecclesiastes 2:9-11; 17)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n He found that it couldn\u2019t satisfy his soul\u2026.it was all futile he said, and he wished he were dead!<\/p>\n No, it doesn\u2019t\u2026.look at Marylyn Monroe, Michael Jackson, Elvis Presley etc.<\/p>\n 1 Kings\u00a0 Eleven\u2026..(verses 1-13)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 1\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-8 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b>2 Chronicles misses this part of Solomon\u2019s life out altogether. What was Solomon\u2019s downfall?\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 1a )<\/i> <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He had a weakness for foreign women.<\/p>\n b. Where did it start ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 1b)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n With a political alliance with Pharaoh\u2026.his daughter was Solomon\u2019s first wife.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What sort of women did Solomon marry?\u00a0 (verse 3)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Women of all the surrounding nations\u2026.probably all princesses and therefore political alliances.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What was the result?\u00a0 (verses 4-8; Nehemiah 13:6)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n They all brought their own gods with them and then nagged Solomon to make special places for them. The end result was that Solomon turned away from following the Lord with all his heart and started to worship these gods himself.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What ground rules had God laid down for Israel in general, and kings in particular? Why?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0(Deuteronomy 7:1-6; 17:14-17)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n Israel was NOT to intermarry or make any covenant or treaty whatsoever with any of the heathen people because God knows the frailty of the human heart and how easily people are swayed by evil.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Does this principle still hold good for God\u2019s people today ? (2 Corinthians 6:14-18)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Yes! The same reason is still valid\u2026..evil will always prevail over good if it is flirted with. Christians are NOT to marry (or even go out with) non-Christians\u2026.it just won\u2019t work!<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What if one thinks they can handle the situation? What does God say to that?\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Corinthians 10:12)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Beware! If you think you can handle it, you can\u2019t! It is only as one relies on God\u2019s strength that one can handle dicey situations \u2026.how can God\u2019s strength be available to someone who deliberately disobeys?<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What other areas was Solomon disobedient in?\u00a0 (Deuteronomy 17:16-17)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He had an excessive number of wives, and far too many horses. God had specifically said that kings were not to have many wives, or horses, and were not to gather up wealth beyond their needs. Solomon had collected all three of these items!<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 9-13\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 How did God feel with Solomon when He saw how far Solomon went in turning away from Him (verse 9)<\/i> <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He was very displeased, angry even.<\/p>\n b. How many times had God appeared to Solomon ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Kings 3:5; 9:2)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Twice before in a dream that was personally to him.<\/p>\n c. We are not told that God came to Solomon this way this time\u2026.how else could He have communicated with him?\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 11; 2 Chronicles 24:19)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n By sending a prophet to him with this rebuke and message of doom for the kingdom.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 Do you think that Solomon\u2019s behaviour took God by surprise?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Isaiah 48:3-5)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n No, because God knows all things from beginning to end. But He had given Solomon a chance to make good, with peace and prosperity and Solomon had messed if all up. That is why God gave\u00a0 (and gives) the command to leave the heathen partners alone\u2026.God never makes a rule without a good reason.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 How badly had Solomon turned from the Lord?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ( verses 6-7)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n Not only had he got slack in his mind and spirit, but he actually built altars for each of his heathen wives for their particular deity, and went along with their sacrifices.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What was the message of doom for Solomon?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 11)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The kingdom would be split in two in the time of his son\u2026.this magnificence would all cease and only one tribe would continue with David\u2019s dynasty as its head.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What does the believer have to remember continually?\u00a0\u00a0 (Hebrews 2:1; 3:12-13)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n To take stock of their spiritual life and attitudes and to never become complacent. To be on guard continually against anything coming between them and God. The mind goes first as evil thoughts and ideas creep in and then their actions soon follow that.<\/p>\n 3.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 14-43 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b>What was the first sign that God was beginning to deal with Solomon\u2019s sin?\u00a0\u00a0 (verses\u00a0 14, 23)<\/i> <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Enemies started to attack him.<\/p>\n b. Edom in the scriptures always speaks of the flesh (man\u2019s old nature) and Egypt speaks of the world system\u2026..what lessons does this hold for the believer ?\u00a0 (verses 15-17)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Just as David thought he had got rid of all his enemies, yet one small child (Hadad) escaped and went to Egypt, and he was that one that came back to harass Solomon. So the believer can never be complacent about his spiritual life\u2026.. if we don\u2019t get rid of everything out of our lives that is not right (any kind of\u00a0 bad habit or little pleasure from the world) that thing will always be there between us and God. If there is something good that we know we should do and don\u2019t do it, then it is sin to us as well\u2026.so it can be things that we might do and things we don\u2019t do.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Was Hadad the only enemy who was niggling at Solomon\u2019s kingdom? (verses 23, 26)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n No, there were at least two others\u2026..Rezon and Jeroboam, the son of Nebat.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What do we know about Jeroboam from this verse?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 28)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He was an industrious young man, so Solomon gave him some responsibilities.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What did the prophet from the Lord tell him?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 31)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n He told him that God was going to split Solomon\u2019s kingdom after his death because of his sin in worshipping other gods, and that he (Jeroboam) would be given ten tribes to be king over.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Why was one tribe (Judah) kept for Solomon\u2019s son ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Jeremiah 33:17)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Because of God\u2019s unconditional promise to David.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What was God\u2019s promise to Jeroboam? Was it conditional or unconditional?\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 31, 35-38)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Both\u2026. The part about him being king waas unconditional, but the part about him having a sure house (or line of descendants for ever) was conditional on Jeroboam following the Lord with all his heart.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Did Solomon get to hear of this? What did he try to do?\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 40)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Yes, he did, and he tried to kill Jeroboam but he escaped to Egypt where he stayed until Solomon died.<\/p>\n i.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How long was Solomon\u2019s reign for? Compare it with David\u2019s\u2026.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 43, 1 Kings 2:11)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He reigned for forty years, the same length of time that David did.<\/p>\n 4.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Summary\u2026\u2026.\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What do we read about Solomon\u2019s wisdom in 1 Kings 4:29-34?\u00a0\u00a0 How many proverbs did he say?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That God gave him an abundance or wisdom, so much so that people from all over the known world went to hear what he hade to say. He spoke of three thousand proverbs.<\/p>\n b. What does Solomon say about wisdom ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Proverbs 1:1-6)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Wisdom helps the simple and gives a young person knowledge and discretion\u2026.in other words, common sense. A person who is already wise will learn still more.<\/p>\n c. Where does true wisdom start?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Proverbs 1:7)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n With fearing the Lord\u2026.that is, acknowledging His existence and one\u2019s need of Him, and following His ways.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 How does one put this true wisdom into action?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Proverbs 3:1-6)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n By trusting the Lord with all one\u2019s heart. And not following one\u2019s own ideas or other people\u2019s ideas. God says it, I believe it and that settles it! To acknowledge God in everything that we do and wait for Him to show direction.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 Do these principles still hold good for us today?\u00a0 (2 Corinthians 1:9; 1 Timothy 4:10)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n Yes! Most definitely!<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did Solomon say about himself in the end?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Ecclesiastes 2:11, 17)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That he had seen everything under the sun until there was nothing more to know and it was all a waste of time! People didn\u2019t get any better and knowledge was a lot of trouble for nothing!!<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Why do you think that Solomon felt like this? What is the end result of a life spent without God?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Kings 11:4, 6, 9)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Even though he had knowledge and wisdom, he didn\u2019t put it into practice for himself\u2026.he didn\u2019t always seek God\u2019s directions for his actions, disobeying clear instructions from God, and in so doing, he made shipwreck of his life.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How did Solomon sum up life (especially for a woman) in the end?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Proverbs 31:30)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That beauty and possessions don\u2019t count for anything, it is\u00a0 fearing the Lord that matters!<\/p>\n i.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What bit of good advice did Solomon give at the end of Ecclesiastes?\u00a0 (Ecclesiastes 12:1, 13-14)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n To remember one\u2019s Creator while one still\u00a0 has life ahead, to fear Him and keep His commands all one\u2019s life\u2026..this is merely one\u2019s DUTY, because everything that one has comes from God anyway and one day every deed that has been done will be judged.<\/p>\n 1 Kings\u00a0 Twelve\u2026..(verses 1-33)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/b><\/p>\n 1\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-16 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 We have come to the end of an era at the end of the previous chapter\u2026.what was it?(1 Kings 11:31) <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n With the death of Solomon, came the end of a united kingdom of Israel. From now on, there would be two kingdoms that would always be against each other\u2026.Israel (ten tribes) and Judah and Benjamin.<\/p>\n b. We are not told how many sons Solomon had, but it would have been in the hundreds! Which son came to the throne?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 1)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Rehoboam became king uncontested by any of his brothers.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What can we work out about Rehoboam from 2 Chronicles 12:13-14 ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n as Solomon reigned for 40 years. His mother was an Ammonite woman and he would probably have watched her worship her own gods. Rehoboam reigned for 17 years so would have been 58 when he died. He didn\u2019t follow the Lord, but did evil in His sight.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 How were the people of Israel feeling about Solomon\u2019s reign now that it was over?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 4)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n They wanted a change and some relief from the heavy taxes they were having to pay the king.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 Who came back on the scene now that Solomon was dead?\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 2- 3a)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n Jeroboam the son of Nebat was called back from Egypt by some of the officers of Israel.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What message did Israel now give to Rehoboam ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 4)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n We want lighter taxes\u2026.if you do this we will stay with you and serve you.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did Rehoboam do when he was faced with this?\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 6-11)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He consulted with the older men first and them with his peers next.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Whose advice did he follow? What did he tell the men of Israel when they got back to him?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 12-14)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He followed the younger men\u2019s advice and told Israel that he would make their taxes and duties even heavier than his father\u2019s.<\/p>\n i.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What bit of his father\u2019s advice did he NOT follow\u00a0\u00a0 ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Proverbs 28:25-26)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He stirred up strife by his decision\u2026.he didn\u2019t trust in the Lord, but trusted in his own ideas and thus became a fool!<\/p>\n j.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What was the reaction of the men of Israel as a result?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 16)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n They said they were finished with the house of David and were going to go it alone.<\/p>\n 2\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses 17-24\u2026\u2026.\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What did Rehoboam think of this split?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 17-19)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He didn\u2019t like it and sent a message to the rebels but they stoned the man to death. So Rehoboam quickly went back to Jerusalem .<\/p>\n b. What did he organise from there and what happened ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 21-24)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He organised his army of 180,000 men and was ready to go to fight the others, but the prophet of the Lord told him not to do it, so he settled quietly down.<\/p>\n c. What do you notice in verse 24 about the whole situation?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0(verse 15; 1 Kings 11:11-13)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n It was in fulfillment of what God had told Solomon and then Jeroboam\u2026.it was because of Solomon\u2019s sin in turning away from God.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 Jeroboam was now king over Israel\u2026.what was the promise that God had given him?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (1 Kings 11:31, 37-38)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n IF<\/b> you follow Me, then I will be with you as I was with David, and will build your kingdom after you.<\/p>\n 3\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-16 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 How did Jeroboam reason now he was king? Did he remember God\u2019s\u00a0 promise?\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 26-27)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He either completely forgot God\u2019s promise or didn\u2019t believe it would happen, so he figured that if the people continued to go to Jerusalem\u00a0 to worship each year that their allegiance would go back to Rehoboam.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did this human reasoning lead him to do?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 28-29)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He made two golden calves and put one at each end of his kingdom, then told the people to worship them. This would keep his people from going to Jerusalem .<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Where did this idea of golden calves come from? Where had Jeroboam been living until Solomon\u2019s death?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Exodus 32:1-8)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The idea came from way back when the people were in the wilderness. Aaron made a golden calf because this was one of the deities of Egypt which was where Jeroboam had been living.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What lesson is there in this for the believer today?\u00a0\u00a0 (James 4:4; 1 John 2:15-17)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n If a believer dabbles in the world system, it will rub off onto him unless he is very diligent in asking the Lord\u2019s protection and covering himself in prayer.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 If a person sincerely asks the Lord for direction in regard to these things what will happen?\u00a0 (Psalm 37:4-5; Colossians 1:9-11)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n One with either be given strength to keep one\u2019s Christian witness or else the desire for these things will fade altogether.\u2026remember, \u201cIf it\u2019s doubtful, it\u2019s dirty!\u201d<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What was the result of Jeroboam\u2019s actions?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 30-33)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He became an idol worshipper and turned all Israel to follow him.\u00a0 In turning away from God, He also lost God\u2019s promise of being the head of a perpetual dynasty.<\/p>\n He was never mentioned without being called \u201cJeroboam the son of Nebat,\u00a0 who made Israel to sin\u201d<\/p>\n 1 Kings\u00a0 Thirteen\u2026..(verses 1-10)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 1\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1- 10<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What do you think God thought of Jeroboam\u2019s actions in building these false altars?(verses 1-2) <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He was very displeased and sent a man of God to prophesy against it.<\/p>\n b. What sign did he say would show that this was indeed the Lord speaking?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 3)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He said that the altar would split in half and the ashes would fall off it.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What reaction did Jeroboam have ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 4)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He gave the order to arrest the man of God.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 How did God protect the prophet?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 4b)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He made Jeroboam\u2019s hand go paralysed and shrivelled.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What do you notice about Jeroboam\u2019s attitude to God in verse 6? <\/b><\/p>\n The king knew that God could heal him, and he knew God\u2019s power (he had just seen it!) but he didn\u2019t acknowledge God as \u201cMy God\u201d\u2026\u2026 it was \u201cYour God\u201d.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What else did God do ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 5)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He split the altar as He had said He would.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What happened next?\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 6b-7)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The man of God prayed and the king\u2019s hand was restored. The king then asked him home for a meal.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Why did the man of God refuse?\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0(verses 8-10)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Because the Lord had specifically told him not to eat or drink anything and also to go home a different way\u2026.the man of God obeyed all that the Lord had told him to do at this time.<\/p>\n i.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Did the man of God go straight home? What did he do ?\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 10,\u00a0 14)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Because the Lord had specifically told him not to eat or drink anything and also to go home a different way. He started off well, but he stopped and sat under an oak tree on the way.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 11-34 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 Who came into the picture now?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 11-14) <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n An older prophet heard what had happened and went looking for the man of God until he found him<\/p>\n b. Where was this older prophet living? What had Jeroboam built in this city?(verse 11; 1 Kings 12:33)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He was based in Bethel, the city where Jeroboam had built an altar to one of the golden calves.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 This is a very puzzling story\u2026.let\u2019s see what we can get out of it. What could have been the reason for the old prophet\u2019s behaviour? Why was he determined to trip the man of God up?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He could have been jealous that the other\u00a0 man was chosen to deliver this message to the king by the Lord instead of himself.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What is the believer specifically told about envying others and \/or being jealous? (Ephesians 4:31-32)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Not to give way to it, but to put it away and be kind to one another and to feed on the Word of God rather that feed on bitter thoughts etc.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What mistakes did the man of God make?\u00a0 (verses 14, 17, 19)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The first one was stopping and sitting under the oak tree instead of keeping going home; secondly of believing what the older man said rather than his own known command from the Lord; thirdly deliberately disobeying what God had told him.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How can we apply this to the believer today so we don’t make the same mistakes?\u00a0 (Psalm 1:1-2; James 4:17)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n First of all, if we have a known goal that we believe is from the Lord, then keep going and don’t hesitate or stop. Secondly, keep to what the Lord says, never deviate from His Word, no matter who says it or what others do. Thirdly, check everything you are told against the principles of Scripture.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 God could have tapped the younger man on the shoulder and reminded him of what He had said\u2026..God CAN physically stop the believer from disobeying His Word\u2026.but He didn\u2019t, and He very seldom does today. Why is this?\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 6b-7)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Because it was clearly told the man of God what he was not to do by the Lord, and when things are clearly written\u00a0 in God\u2019s Word for us and we allow ourselves to be swayed by what others say, then we must bear the consequences.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What were the consequences for the man of God?\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 23-24)<\/i><\/p>\n Nothing dreadful happened on the spot, but on the way home later, he was killed by a lion.<\/p>\n i.\u00a0\u00a0 Often when we disobey God, nothing seems to happen, but what principle is put into place?\u00a0 (Galations 6-7)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Whatever we sow, is what we will reap\u2026.if we leave God out and follow popular opinion, our lives will be useless for God.<\/p>\n j.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Is compromise a sin?\u00a0 This man compromised\u2026..he thought that seeing the old man was also a prophet of the Lord, it must have been OK to eat at his house. Was this right?\u00a0\u00a0 (James 4:8)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Compromise is usually only partly right, which means it is also partly wrong. Compromise usually means we aren\u2019t very close to the Lord\u2026.we are to get close to Him and He will cleanse our hearts so we can confidently do what is right.<\/p>\n k.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How can we sum this story up? What should the man of God have done?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n If he had kept going, the older prophet wouldn\u2019t have found him, and (b) if he had refused to eat\u00a0 he probably would have missed meeting the lion. Both ways, he would have got home safely!! The way for a believer to have God\u2019s full blessing is in obedience to His Word.<\/p>\n 1 Kings\u00a0 Fourteen\u2026..(verses 1-51)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 1\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Verses\u00a0 1-18\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 This story is not recorded anywhere else. Note that sometimes names are doubled up which is a bit confusing. This Abijah is the son of Jeroboam, king of Israel\u2026..in 2 Chronicles we read that Abijah, the son of Rehoboam became king over Judah. What is this story about briefly?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Jeroboam\u2019s son Abijah fell seriously sick and Jeroboam sent\u00a0 his wife off to ask the old prophet Ahijah if their son would get better. But Ahijah had bad news for them, and told her the lad would die because of Jeroboam\u2019s sin in turning so blatantly away from God.<\/p>\n b. What did Jeroboam\u2019s wife try to do when she went to the prophet?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 2-3)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n She pretended she was someone else\u2026.she tried to trick him and then placated him with a present.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What didn\u2019t she realise as she went to the prophet?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 5; Psalm 139:1-4)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That she was dealing with God, and He can never be tricked\u2026.she was only fooling herself!<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 Why did God say that evil was going to come to Jeroboam?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 16 )<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Because Jeroboam had made other gods and thrown God out of his life.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 Why was this young lad going to die? What light does this throw on the death of children?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 13,; 2 Samuel 12:22-23)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n God could see that this child who had a heart for Himself wouldn\u2019t stand a chance in this evil household of growing up for Him, so He took him to be with Himself. This, and the story of David\u2019s child, give comfort to parents who lose young children, that they are with the Lord.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What had God promised Jeroboam at the beginning? What does He say now about his family? (verses 10-11; 1 Kings 11:37-38)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n God had promised Jeroboam that if he walked ion His ways all his life, that He would build him a sure dynasty like David\u2019s. But Jeroboam didn\u2019t\u00a0 keep to his side of the bargain, and God told him that all the rest of his family would die violent deaths.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0 This didn\u2019t happen straight away, and Jeroboam may have forgotten all about it. What are we told to always remember in 2 Peter 3:1-4, 10-13?\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That the Lord IS going to return in spite of what the scoffers say, and we are to continually look for that return and live in the light of it.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 19-31<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 Who took Jeroboam\u2019s kingdom when he died?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 20)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n His son Nadab.<\/p>\n b. We now go back to Rehoboam, son of Solomon who actually died four years of<\/b> Jeroboam\u2026.how old was Rehoboam when he died?\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0(verse 21)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He was 58 years old.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What do you think one reason would be why Rehoboam turned to idolatry rather than to the Lord? \u00a0\u00a0(verse 21c)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n He had a heathen mother, and Solomon had also turned to idolatry in his later years.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What sort of evil things did the people under Rehoboam get into?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 22-24)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Homosexuality was rife as well as other evil practices such as idol worship like the surrounding nations<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What happened to Solomon\u2019s golden shields?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses\u00a0 25-26)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The king of Egypt came against Judah and took them all as well as other golden treasures from the temple and the king\u2019s palace.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did Rehoboam replace the shields with?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 27)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Shields of brass\u2026..a poor substitute!<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0 What did the priests and Levites in Israel do during the first years of Jeroboam\u2019s evil reign?\u00a0\u00a0 What about the others in the land who still had a heart for the Lord?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 11:13-16)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n They left their farms and houses because Jeroboam had turfed them out of doing their priestly duties for the Lord, and installed evil heathen men as priests.\u00a0\u00a0 As a result they went to live in Judah so they could still worship the Lord at the temple.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How long did Judah follow the Lord after Rehoboam became king?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 11:17)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n They followed the Lord for three years, and the kingdom became firmly established, but then the king forgot the Lord and looked around for a \u201cchange\u201d going in for idolatry instead.<\/p>\n i.\u00a0\u00a0 What happened when the king of Egypt came against them?\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 12:1-8, 12)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n They humbled themselves before the Lord and God preserved them from being destroyed altogether, but they had to pay taxes to the other countries.<\/p>\n j.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What does this show us about people who leave God out of their lives?\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 12:14; Galations 5:16-21)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Christians who don\u2019t make God number one in their lives, often become slaves to bad habits and have no victory over them\u2026.other things will fill their lives.<\/p>\n k.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How long was Rehoboam\u2019s reign?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 21)<\/i>\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n He reigned for\u00a0 seventeen years.<\/p>\n 1 Kings\u00a0 Fifteen\u2026..(verses 1-15)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 1\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-8\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (King Abijah, son of Rehoboam, king\u00a0 of Judah.)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What do we notice about Abijah\u2019s mother?\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 13, 2 Chronicles 11:20-21)\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n She was the daughter of Absalom (son of David); she had four sons; she was the king\u2019s favourite wife of 18; she was an idol worshipper;\u00a0 and she\u00a0 ruled as queen until her grandson deposed her.<\/p>\n b. What do we read about Abijah\u2019s spiritual state?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 3)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He followed the sinful ways of Rehoboam his father and althoughy he acknowledged God at times, yet his heart wasn\u2019t right with God as David\u2019s had been.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What testimony of David do we have here?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 4-5 )<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That David always followed the Lord with all his heart, except in the case of Bathsheba and Uriah the Hittite, and he knew that God waas going to establish his kingdom for ever in spite of Abijah\u2019s ways.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 How long was Abijah\u2019s reign and who was his opposing king in Israel?\u00a0 (verse 6 ; 2 Chronicles 13:1-2)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Abijah only reigned three years and Jeroboam was king of Israel at that time.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What sort of king was Abijah?\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 13:21)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He was a reasonably good king to his [people; he took\u00a0 many wives (14); he waas a good general in his army and he knew what to say when it came rallying his men to battle.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What do we see about this battle against Jeroboam?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles\u00a0 13:2-3)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Judah had an army of\u00a0 400,000 men, while Jeroboam\u2019s army numbered 800,000\u2026.twice as many.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0 What did Abijah proclaim to Israel (the enemy) before the battle?\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 13:8-12)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n You come to fight us with only the backing of golden calves! We come to you with God on our side\u2026.we still sacrifice to Him every day, and He is our Captain!<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did Jeroboam do with his army?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 13:13)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He split it and put men in ambush behind Judah, feeling he had the upper hand.<\/p>\n i.\u00a0\u00a0 What did Judah do at this point? How many men died in Israel?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 13: 14-17)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Judah shouted out to the Lord and God made Jeroboam\u2019s men to run away from Judah\u2026.Abijah was the victor and 500,000 men (more than half the army) of Israel died in battle at that time.<\/p>\n j.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What do we learn about God in this story?\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 13: 5, 12, 15-16)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That He is merciful even when people are not following Him as they should\u2026.they relied on Him at this time and He fought for them.<\/p>\n k.\u00a0 What do verses 7c-8 tell us?<\/b><\/p>\n That Abijam and Jeroboam were at war all the three years that Abijam reigned. He died and his son Asa became king.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 9-15\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 Which king was over Israel when Asa came to throne?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 9, 25)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/p>\n Jeroboam was still king.<\/p>\n b. How did Asa feel towards the Lord? Who was he like?\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0(verse 11)<\/i><\/p>\n Asa loved the lord and walked in his ways just as his great great grandfather David had done.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 It is one thing to love the Lord, but what goes hand in hand with it? How did Asa show this?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 12-15;\u00a0 James 2:20, 24, 26; )<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Faith and works go together. Asa showed this by getting rid of all homosexuals in the land\u00a0 and all the idols his father had made, and also removed his grandmother\u2019s position as queen because of her idolatry\u2026.he burnt her idol.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What things did Asa NOT remove?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 14)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The high places where idols had reigned supreme were closed down but not got rid of or destroyed.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 Because Asa followed the Lord with all his heart, what did God give him?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 14 6)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n God gave him peace and quiet for ten years while he established the kingdom, and he was able to clean it up both spiritually and physically in that time. Kings\u00a0 Fifteen\u2026..(verses 16-24)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n 2.\u00a0 \u00a02 Chronicles 14:9-15\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n God had given Asa ten years of peace and quiet to get things in the kingdom sorted out as he got rid of all the idolatry in the land.<\/i><\/b><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What did God allow to come into Asa\u2019s life now? Why do you think God allowed this to happen?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ( 2 Chronicles 14:8-9)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Trouble came in the form of Ethiopia coming against him with an army twice as big. God was going to show Asa what would happen when he depended on Him for help.<\/p>\n b. What did Asa do?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 10-11)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He did what he could by getting his army in position and then cried out to the Lord for help.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What lesson do we see in this for us?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Philippians 4:6-7)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n When trials come, we must take them to the Lord in prayer, do what we can and then leave the results to Him.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What happened in this battle?\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 14:12-13)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n When Asa told the Lord he had no power and the Lord would have to help them, he went out to battle and the Lord smote the Ethiopians and they fled before Asa\u2019s army.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What was the result of this battle for Judah?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 14:14-15)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n They carried away much spoil and became richer as a result of this battle.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How can we liken this to ourselves as we go through trials and problems?\u00a0\u00a0 (Hebrews 12:9-11)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n If we depend on the Lord, we will come out of troubles richer in experience and in learning valuable lessons which we can then pass on to others.<\/p>\n 3.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses 16-24\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n When Jeroboam king of Israel died, his son Nadab took over, but only reigned for two years\u2026.he was idolatrous just as his father had been. One of his men, Baasha deposed him after two years, in the third year of Asa king of Judah. Baasha then killed all of the rest of Jeroboam\u2019s descendants..<\/i><\/b><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 In spite of Asa being at peace, who kept niggling at him all his life?\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0(verses 16, 32)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Baasha\u00a0 king of Israel never stopped harassing him.<\/p>\n b. What does this remind you of in your Christian life?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Romans 7:21-23)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Our old nature is always there to rise up and harass us\u2026.it is only God who can give us the victory over this.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0 After the battle with the Ethiopians what encouragement did Asa and his people have?<\/b> What result did this have?\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 15: 1-8)<\/i><\/p>\n The Lord sent a messenger to Asa telling him that as long as he followed the Lord, he would\u00a0 prosper.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What do we see about the godly people in Israel at this time? (2\u00a0 Chronicles 15: 9)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n When they saw all this, they packed their bags and went to live in Judah so they could easily worship at the temple.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 How sincere were they all in this?\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0(2 Chronicles 15:12-15)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n They meant it with all their heart, even to vowing to execute any who didn\u2019t!<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0 How long was there peace in Judah with everyone following the Lord?\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 16:1)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Everything went along sweetly until Asa\u2019s 36th<\/sup> year of being king, and then Baasha came against him.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did\u00a0 he do next?\u00a0 What did Asa do?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0(2 Chronicles 16: 2-3)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Baasha made a fort against Asa keeping him locked in his city. So Asa took all the gold and silver things in the temple and sent them with\u00a0 a message to another dubious king (Benhadad of Syria) asking for help to get rid of Baasha.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Did this work?\u00a0 What did God think of this?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 15:2; 16:4-5)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Yes, it did\u2026..Baasha went home and left them alone. But Asa had left God out of this problem, and God sent a messenger to him reminding him of the victory God had given over the king of Ethiopia, and\u00a0 rebuking him for this time.<\/p>\n i.\u00a0\u00a0 What had Asa effectively done with this problem? How can we apply this to ourselves?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ( 2 Timothy 2: 1, 3-5)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Asa had taken the easy way out by getting\u00a0 an ungodly king to fight his battle\u2026.this is like us running to those in the world or to friends that have the easy answers with our problems, instead of taking them to the Lord, and standing against temptation or trial properly with God\u2019s strength.<\/p>\n j.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What was Asa\u2019s reaction to the prophet\u2019s message? What happened to him after that? (2 Chronicles 16:10-12)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Asa got in a rage and arrested him. Shortly afterwards, he got badly diseased in his feet and relied on the doctors instead of the Lord, dying after a couple of years of agony.<\/p>\n k.\u00a0 What can we learn from Asa\u2019s life?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Hebrews 10:22-25)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He was a man who started off well, and who had great victories with God\u2019s help, and then after a period of peace seemed to forget what God could do for him. Let us not be like this but be on guard continually, encouraging each other in the things of the Lord, especially when things are going well.<\/p>\n 4.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Verses 25-34\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n We are now going back to the kings of Israel\u2026.Jeroboam the son of\u00a0 Nebat had died and gone into posterity with\u00a0 the lasting epitaph of being the one\u00a0 \u201cwho made Israel to sin\u201d. <\/i><\/b><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 Who reigned over Israel after Jeroboam died? What do we know about him?\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 25-26)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Jeroboam\u2019s son, Nadab, took the throne and followed in his father\u2019s sinful footsteps\u2026he reigned for two years and was assassinated in a coup by Baasha.<\/p>\n b. What was this in fulfilment of?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 29-30; 1 Kings 14:9-10)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n God had said that none of Jeroboam\u2019s line would continue because of his sin\u2026.Nadab was the only one who continued and that only for a brief two years.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What sort of king did Baasha prove to be?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 2-3)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He was no better, he too continued in idol worship and led the people in that way.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 What do we learn from all of this?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Jeremiah 27:4-5;Romans 14:11-12)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n These men thought they were doing their own thing and that there would be no consequences of this, but they didn\u2019t realise or care that there was a God in heaven who was watching them, their actions and who knew where their heart\u2019s affections were centred and who would one day judge them, on these things. We all must realise that God is watching and knows every single human being and in evaluating their hearts will one day hold them accountable for their actions and thoughts.<\/p>\n 1 Kings\u00a0 Sixteen\u2026..(verses 1-28)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 1.\u00a0 Verses 1-28\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n God sent His messenger to Baasha with a message of doom\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/i><\/b><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0 What does this message concerning Baasha tell us about God?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 1-4)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n God was telling Baasha that He had raised him to be king;\u00a0 in a sense Baasha hadn\u2019t made himself king at all\u2026.and that because of his sin, his line wouldn\u2019t continue.<\/p>\n b. What else do we see along these same lines in the following verse?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Romans 13:1)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n God ordains all the powers on earth, and it is up to them whether they follow Him or not.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0 How does God sometimes use the evil kings?\u00a0 (Exodus 9:16; Romans 9:17-18)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He uses them to show His power in the affairs of men\u2026..God puts up those He wishes and puts them down again. God is in complete control, even when man is out of control.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Who reigned after Baasha and what happened to him?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 6-10)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Baasha\u2019s son Elah took the throne but he only lasted\u00a0 two years. He was a sinful as his father and a drunkard to boot and his servant Zimri killed him while he was in a drunken stupor.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What was the first thing Zimri did after becoming king?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 11)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He killed all of Baasha\u2019s male descendants.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0 What does this show us about God\u2019s purposes?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 12-13)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He used this evil man to bring about His purposes and to fulfil His word.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How long did he last as king and how did he die?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 15-20)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He was only king for seven days, then Israel chose Omri who was his co-general in preference to him and he committed suicide by burning his house over himself rather than wait to be killed by the new king!<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How long did Omri reign and what sort of king was he?\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 23)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Omri reigned for twelve years and was an exceedingly wicked king, even more so than all before him.<\/p>\n i.\u00a0\u00a0 What city did Omri establish? Who was king after him?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ( verses 24-28)<\/i><\/p>\n Omri established the city of Samaria, and his son Ahab reigned after him.<\/p>\n Enter\u00a0 Ahab\u2026\u2026\u20261 Kings\u00a0 Sixteen\u2026..(verses 29-34)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Ahab came to the throne while Asa was still king. We will briefly look at what sort of man Ahab was\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 1.\u00a0 Verses 29-34\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What sort of man was Ahab?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 29-30)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Being as he was, the son of a wicked godless man, Ahab was no better, in fact he became worse!<\/p>\n b. Who did he marry?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 31)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He married Jezebel, the princess of the Zidonians, who turned out to be\u00a0 a very managing woman.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0 What do verses 32-33 tell us about Ahab?\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He built a temple and altar to Baal, the heathen idol, and did\u00a0 more evil\u00a0 than his father had done.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What is the interesting side comment made in verse 34?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Joshua 6:26)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n It was in Ahab\u2019s time that the city of Jericho was rebuilt and the curse that Joshua put on it came true\u2026.the builder\u2019s eldest son died when he started and\u00a0 the youngest died when the gates were put up. One wonders if the boys were used as human sacrifices.<\/p>\n Jehoshaphat \u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 2 Chronicles 17:1-19<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n We are now going to look King Jehoshaphat of Judah\u2026.we aren\u2019t told much\u00a0 about him in 1 Kings, but\u00a0 there is quite a lot about him in 2 Chronicles\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026. <\/i><\/b><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What sort of king was Jehoshaphat?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 3-4)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He followed in his father\u2019s footsteps of walking in the ways of the Lord. Note that it is said of him that he followed his ancestor David\u2019s ways. Kings who did well were said to do right in the sight of the Lord, but those who were really dedicated were described as walking in the ways of David.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0 How did God describe David?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Acts 13:22)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n As being a man after His own heart, a man\u00a0 who was prepared to do God\u2019s will.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0 What does it specifically say here about Jehoshaphat\u2019s heart towards the Lord ?\u00a0 (verses 3-4, 6)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That he had made up his mind to follow (seek the Lord) the Lord God , and his heart was lifted up in His ways.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How did this\u00a0 show itself to others?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 6-9, 13;\u00a0 1 Kings 22:43-46 )<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He fortified his cities against any enemy that might come in and harass them.<\/p>\n He destroyed all the high places and groves where idol worship had been done in his grandfather\u2018s time<\/p>\n He organised teaching programmes around the country so that the people would\u00a0 learn the ways of God<\/p>\n He was held in high esteem by all in surrounding countries.<\/p>\n He\u00a0 got rid of all homosexuality out of the country.<\/p>\n He had brave and mighty men as his officers<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What was the result of him following the Lord as he did?\u00a0 (verses 5, 10-11)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n God gave him peace and prosperity.<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How can we liken this to the believer\u2019s life?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (3 John 1:2-3)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n As a believer follows the Lord closely we see all these things happening in their life\u2026..<\/p>\n They will keep away from things that will distract and take away from the Lord.<\/p>\n They will keep short accounts with God in confession and prayer.<\/p>\n They will have regular times for bible reading and prayer.<\/p>\n They will have good friends who will help them in their walk with the Lord.<\/p>\n These things will keep them in good spiritual health, and prosper them in spiritual values.<\/p>\n Jehoshaphat (cont\u2019d)\u2026\u2026..2 Chronicles 18: 1- 27<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 1.\u00a0 Verses 1-27\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What great mistake did Jehoshaphat\u00a0 make?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 1)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He made a peace treaty with Ahab, the godless and idol worshipping king of Israel.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Why do you think that he did this?\u00a0 Did he ask\u00a0 God for directions in this matter?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Chronicles 19:2; 2 Corinthians 6:15)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He probably thought that it would ensure peace with Ahab being next door, but he did it without asking God for directions.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0 What happens when we do this sort of thing? What does God think about this matter?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (2 Corinthians 6:14-17)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n What seems a good idea at the time will often have far reaching consequences that we haven\u2019t even thought of! God specifically forbids it and if we obey we will keep out of a lot of trouble and heartache.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What did Jehoshaphat find himself bound to do on account of this treaty? (verses 2-3)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He found himself involved in a battle on Ahab\u2019s behalf\u2026..one that was none of his business really!<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 What did Jehoshaphat\u00a0 do at the onset of this war?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 4)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He wanted to ask God for directions<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How did Ahab interpret this request (from his ungodly perspective)?\u00a0 (verses 4-5)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He called all his ungodly prophets of Baal together and asked them what to do, with the result that they said to go, God would fight for them.<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0 Was Jehoshaphat satisfied with this? Why not?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 6-8)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n No, he wanted to call God\u2019s prophet, but Ahab didn\u2019t want him because he always prophesied bad things about him.<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Try to visualise the scene and put it in your own words\u2026\u2026what was going on?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 8-17)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The two kings were sitting side by side on separate\u00a0 thrones in their regal robes in this spacious area with all the prophets doing their thing in front of them\u2026..one of them even had a set of iron horns that he used in his prophecy\u2026 \u201cyou will push the enemy like an ox pushing its antagonist\u201d, he said. i.\u00a0\u00a0 What do we see here that was used to make a\u00a0 point, that is still used today in psyching up people?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 10-11)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n i. . Visual aids\u2026.the horns<\/p>\n ii.\u00a0 \u00a0Turn up the volume\u2026. they all agreed in unison.<\/p>\n iii. Peer pressure\u2026 they tried to get the Lord\u2019s prophet to join in with them.<\/p>\n j.\u00a0\u00a0 What did Michaiah tell the two kings?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 13-16)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He played along with the others at first (probably in sarcasm), but the kings could tell that he didn\u2019t mean it. Then he told them how he could see that Israel would be scattered with no leader.<\/p>\n k.\u00a0\u00a0 Did Ahab believe him?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 17)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n No, he didn\u2019t want to face the truth of God\u2019s word.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0 Verses 18-27\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What glimpses do we have in the Scriptures of things in the heavens?\u00a0 (verses18-22)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That God and His angels take a great interest in the affairs of men\u2026..it almost seems that there are regular meetings to discuss these things as God appoints different beings to do their tasks among humans.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Is it only \u201cgood\u201d angels who attend these gatherings and who are interested in the affairs of men?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ( Job 1:6-12)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n No, it seems that Satan and his angels have a certain amount of access to them too.<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0 How do we know that angels are interested in people\u2019s affairs\u00a0 today? (Psalm 34:7; 1 Corinthians 4:9; Luke 15:10)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Paul says he felt he was made a \u201cspectacle\u201d before people and the angels\u2026..they watched his reactions and his behaviour.<\/p>\n We are told that they observe believers\u2019 actions\u2026..whether obedience or otherwise.<\/p>\n They rejoice whenever a person turns to the Lord.<\/p>\n They deliver believers from danger and protect them.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0What resources do believers have to stand against the evil forces that would drag them down?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Ephesians 611-18)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n God\u2019s armour of faith, truth, prayer, right living, the blood of Christ, our salvation, and the Word of God.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What do we see about this council meeting in heaven?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 18-22; Hebrews 1:14)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n That God uses angels and spirits to influence the way people think and act.<\/p>\n Jehoshaphat and Ahab \u2026\u2026..2 Chronicles 18: 28-34 <\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 1.\u00a0 Verses 28-31<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What was Ahab\u2019s reaction when Micaiah gave the prophecy from the Lord?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 25-26)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He got angry and threw Micaiah into prison, thinking that would get rid of the prophecy.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Do we find this same attitude in the world today?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Yes, people think they can disbelieve God\u2019s Word away\u2026..if they can say it doesn\u2019t exist, it will never catch up with them. How silly can people be!!!!<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0 What had Jehoshaphat\u00a0 forgotten that got him into this predicament that he now found himself in? (verses 28-29)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He forgot to pray, and\u00a0 he forgot God\u2019s word to not ally himself with a godless man.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What kept him from death in this situation?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 31)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n His faith in God and his cry to the Lord for help in his dire straits.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0 Verses 32-34\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 Did Ahab have any thought or care for Jehoshaphat\u2019s safety?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 29)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n None whatsoever! He thought he could\u00a0 hide from God\u2019s judgement under a disguise\u00a0 and that the enemy would focus on Jehoshaphat thinking he was the king of Israel.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What is the attitude of the world in general today?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Every man for himself (and the devil for the lot as the saying goes!)<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0 What saved Jehoshaphat ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 31)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He cried to the Lord in his extremity and God delivered him.<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Did Ahab\u2019s disguise save him from God\u2019s judgement?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 32-33)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n No, it did not! He was killed just as Micaiah\u00a0 had prophesied.<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 Will people\u2019s non-belief and agnosticism today save them from God\u2019s judgement in a day to come? (Romans 2:3; Hebrews 9:27)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n No, it will not!<\/p>\n Ahab \u2026\u2026..1 Kings 17:1-24 <\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n We have seen how Ahab died, now let us see how he lived\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 1.\u00a0 Verses 1-24\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 Who was God\u2019s prophet at this time, to Ahab and what did he prophesy here?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 1)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Elijah came on the scene and prophesied that there would be a complete drought for some years.<\/p>\n b.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How did God look after Elijah during the first part of this time?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 2-6)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He told him to go and live by a certain stream and the raven birds would bring him bread and meat.<\/p>\n c. It was strange that the birds came to Elijah, but what was even more miraculous ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verse 6)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The fact that they brought him food without eating it themselves!<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Tell the next story briefly\u2026\u2026\u2026..\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 7-16)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n When the stream dried up, God told him to to Zarephath and to stay with a widow and her son. Elijah found her making her last meal and he asked her to\u00a0 share it with him. When she did, he told her that her flour and oil would last until the rain eventually came (which it did).<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0 It seems that she didn\u2019t entirely believe in God even with this miracle. What did it take to make her admit a belief in God.?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (verses 17-24)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Her son got sick and died\u2026.Elijah took him upstairs, laid him on his bed and stretched himself on the child, drying out to God for his revival back to life. God miraculously answered his prayer and he was able to give him back to his mother. This caused her complete belief in God\u2026..no other god or heathen deity could have done this!<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 This story shows God\u2019s interest in this heathen woman who He knew would come to Him. How minutely interested is God in each person on this earth?\u00a0 (Psalm 139:2-4,15-16; Matthew 10:29-31)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n He knows each person through and through\u2026..he fashions each baby at conception, He sees every action, He knows every thought, and even has each hair strand numbered!<\/p>\n Ahab \u2026\u2026..1 Kings 18:1-46 <\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n 1.\u00a0 Verses 1-19\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0 What did God tell Elijah to do?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \n
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\nAll the other prophets chimed in agreeing with this. The man who went to get Michaiah told him he\u2019d better say the same to keep out of trouble!<\/p>\n