1 Kings 3
BSB1 Later, Solomon formed an alliance with Pharaoh king of Egypt by marrying his daughter. Solomon brought her to the City of David until he had finished building his palace and the house of the LORD, as well as the wall around Jerusalem. 2 The people, however, were still sacrificing on the high places because a house for the Name of the LORD had not yet been built. 3 And Solomon loved the LORD and walked in the statutes of his father David, except that he sacrificed and burned incense on the high places. 4 Now the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there, for it was the great high place. Solomon offered a thousand burnt offerings on the altar there. 5 One night at Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream, and God said, “Ask, and I will give it to you!" 6 Solomon replied, “You have shown much loving devotion to Your servant, my father David, because he walked before You in faithfulness, righteousness, and uprightness of heart. And You have maintained this loving devotion by giving him a son to sit on his throne this very day. 7 And now, O LORD my God, You have made Your servant king in my father David’s place. But I am only a little child, not knowing how to go out or come in. 8 Your servant is here among the people You have chosen, a people too numerous to count or number. 9 Therefore give Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people and to discern between good and evil. For who is able to govern this great people of Yours?" 10 Now it pleased the Lord that Solomon had made this request. 11 So God said to him, “Since you have asked for this instead of requesting long life or wealth for yourself or death for your enemies—but you have asked for discernment to administer justice— 12 behold, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there has never been nor will ever be another like you. 13 Moreover, I will give you what you did not request—both riches and honor—so that during all your days no man in any kingdom will be your equal. 14 So if you walk in My ways and keep My statutes and commandments, just as your father David did, I will prolong your days." 15 Then Solomon awoke, and indeed it had been a dream. So he returned to Jerusalem, stood before the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings. Then he held a feast for all his servants. 16 At that time two prostitutes came to the king and stood before him. 17 One woman said, “Please, my lord, this woman and I live in the same house, and I gave birth while she was in the house. 18 On the third day after I gave birth, this woman also had a baby. We were alone, with no one in the house but the two of us. 19 During the night this woman’s son died because she rolled over on him. 20 So she got up in the middle of the night and took my son from my side while I was asleep. She laid him in her bosom and put her dead son at my bosom. 21 The next morning, when I got up to nurse my son, I discovered he was dead. But when I examined him, I realized that he was not the son I had borne." 22 “No,” said the other woman, “the living one is my son and the dead one is your son.” But the first woman insisted, “No, the dead one is yours and the living one is mine.” So they argued before the king. 23 Then the king replied, “This woman says, ‘My son is alive and yours is dead,’ but that woman says, ‘No, your son is dead and mine is alive.’" 24 The king continued, “Bring me a sword.” So they brought him a sword, 25 and the king declared, “Cut the living child in two and give half to one and half to the other." 26 Then the woman whose son was alive spoke to the king because she yearned with compassion for her son. “Please, my lord,” she said, “give her the living baby. Do not kill him!” But the other woman said, “He will be neither mine nor yours. Cut him in two!" 27 Then the king gave his ruling: “Give the living baby to the first woman. By no means should you kill him; she is his mother." 28 When all Israel heard of the judgment the king had given, they stood in awe of him, for they saw that the wisdom of God was in him to administer justice.
Study Notes — 1 Kings 3
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from 1 Kings 3
- Themes from 1 Kings 3
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on 1 Kings 3
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins with Solomon's marriage to Pharaoh's daughter and his sacrifice at Gibeon, where God appears to him in a dream. Solomon asks for wisdom, and God is pleased with his request, granting him not only wisdom but also wealth, honor, and a long life. The chapter also describes the wisdom Solomon displays in judging a dispute between two women, demonstrating his ability to discern right from wrong. This event showcases Solomon's wisdom in action, as described in 1 Kings 3:16-28. The chapter concludes with a description of Solomon's officials and his relationship with neighboring kingdoms, highlighting his wisdom in governance, as seen in 1 Kings 3:1-15.
Context for the Chapter
This chapter is part of the larger narrative of 1 Kings, which describes the reign of Solomon and the divided kingdom. It follows the death of David and the establishment of Solomon as king, as described in 1 Kings 1-2. The chapter also looks forward to the rest of the book, which will describe the building of the temple and the decline of the kingdom. The themes of wisdom, covenant, and humility are central to the book and are developed throughout the narrative, as seen in 1 Kings 3 and other chapters.
Heart Application
This chapter encourages readers to seek wisdom and discernment, recognizing their limitations and dependence on God. It also highlights the importance of humility and trust in God's sovereignty, as exemplified by Solomon's life and reign, as seen in 1 Kings 3:1-28. By applying these principles, readers can cultivate a deeper relationship with God and make wise decisions in their own lives.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter is about Solomon, the king of Israel, who asks God for wisdom. God is happy with Solomon's request and gives him not only wisdom but also wealth and a long life. The chapter shows how important it is to seek wisdom and to trust in God's sovereignty, as seen in 1 Kings 3:1-28. It also highlights the value of humility and discernment in leadership, as demonstrated by Solomon's life and reign.
Voices from the Church
“Wisdom is the right use of knowledge, and it is this that Solomon so earnestly desires, as seen in 1 Kings 3:9. May we also seek wisdom and discernment in our own lives, that we may glorify God and fulfill his purposes.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The wisdom that Solomon requests is not merely intellectual, but also moral and spiritual, as described in 1 Kings 3:9-12. It is the ability to distinguish between good and evil, and to make decisions that are pleasing to God.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Solomon's Marriage and Sacrifice (1 Kings 3:1-4) — The chapter begins with a description of Solomon's marriage to Pharaoh's daughter and his sacrifice at Gibeon, which sets the stage for God's appearance to him in a dream.
- God's Appearance to Solomon (1 Kings 3:5-15) — God appears to Solomon in a dream and offers to grant him anything he desires, leading to Solomon's request for wisdom, as seen in 1 Kings 3:9.
- Solomon's Request for Wisdom (1 Kings 3:9-12) — Solomon asks for wisdom and discernment, recognizing his limitations and dependence on God, and God is pleased with his request, as described in 1 Kings 3:10-12.
- The Two Women and the Baby (1 Kings 3:16-28) — The chapter describes a dispute between two women over a baby, which Solomon resolves with his wisdom, demonstrating his ability to discern right from wrong, as seen in 1 Kings 3:16-28.
- Solomon's Officials and Relationships (1 Kings 3:1-15) — The chapter concludes with a description of Solomon's officials and his relationships with neighboring kingdoms, highlighting his wisdom in governance, as seen in 1 Kings 3:1-15.
Core Doctrines
- Sovereignty of God
- This chapter teaches that God is sovereign and providential, granting Solomon wisdom and wealth, as described in 1 Kings 3:12-13. This sovereignty is evident in God's ability to fulfill his promises and to grant Solomon's requests.
- Importance of Wisdom
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and discernment, as demonstrated by Solomon's request and God's response, as seen in 1 Kings 3:9-12. This emphasis on wisdom highlights its value in leadership and decision-making.
- Humility and Dependence on God
- Solomon's humility and recognition of his limitations are key factors in his ability to receive wisdom from God, as seen in 1 Kings 3:7-9. This humility is a model for believers, who should also recognize their dependence on God and seek his guidance.
- Covenant Promises
- The chapter highlights the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to David, as Solomon's reign is established and God's wisdom is granted to him, as described in 1 Kings 3:1-15. This fulfillment of promises demonstrates God's faithfulness and sovereignty.
Lessons from 1 Kings 3
- The Importance of Humility — Solomon's humility and recognition of his limitations are key factors in his ability to receive wisdom from God, as seen in 1 Kings 3:7-9. This humility is a model for believers, who should also recognize their dependence on God and seek his guidance.
- The Value of Wisdom — The chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and discernment, as demonstrated by Solomon's request and God's response, as seen in 1 Kings 3:9-12. This emphasis on wisdom highlights its value in leadership and decision-making.
- The Sovereignty of God — The chapter teaches that God is sovereign and providential, granting Solomon wisdom and wealth, as described in 1 Kings 3:12-13. This sovereignty is evident in God's ability to fulfill his promises and to grant Solomon's requests.
- The Fulfillment of Covenant Promises — The chapter highlights the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to David, as Solomon's reign is established and God's wisdom is granted to him, as described in 1 Kings 3:1-15. This fulfillment of promises demonstrates God's faithfulness and sovereignty.
- The Importance of Discernment — The chapter emphasizes the importance of discernment, as demonstrated by Solomon's ability to distinguish between good and evil, as seen in 1 Kings 3:16-28. This discernment is essential for making wise decisions and fulfilling God's purposes.
Themes from 1 Kings 3
- Wisdom and Discernment — The chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and discernment, as demonstrated by Solomon's request and God's response, as seen in 1 Kings 3:9-12. This emphasis on wisdom highlights its value in leadership and decision-making.
- Humility and Dependence on God — Solomon's humility and recognition of his limitations are key factors in his ability to receive wisdom from God, as seen in 1 Kings 3:7-9. This humility is a model for believers, who should also recognize their dependence on God and seek his guidance.
- Sovereignty of God — The chapter teaches that God is sovereign and providential, granting Solomon wisdom and wealth, as described in 1 Kings 3:12-13. This sovereignty is evident in God's ability to fulfill his promises and to grant Solomon's requests.
- Covenant Promises — The chapter highlights the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to David, as Solomon's reign is established and God's wisdom is granted to him, as described in 1 Kings 3:1-15. This fulfillment of promises demonstrates God's faithfulness and sovereignty.
- Leadership and Governance — The chapter describes Solomon's wisdom in governance, as he establishes his officials and maintains relationships with neighboring kingdoms, as seen in 1 Kings 3:1-15. This wisdom in governance is a model for leaders, who should seek God's guidance and wisdom in their decision-making.
Questions for Meditation
- What are some ways that you can seek wisdom and discernment in your own life, as Solomon did in 1 Kings 3:9?
- How does the chapter describe God's sovereignty and providence, as seen in 1 Kings 3:12-13?
- What are some key characteristics of humility, as demonstrated by Solomon in 1 Kings 3:7-9?
- How does the chapter relate to the larger narrative of 1 Kings, as seen in 1 Kings 1-2 and 1 Kings 3:1-28?
- What are some ways that you can apply the principles of this chapter to your own life and relationships, as seen in 1 Kings 3:1-28?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Solomon's Marriage and Sacrifice (1 Kings 3:1-4)
| 3:1 | The chapter begins with a description of Solomon's marriage to Pharaoh's daughter, which sets the stage for his sacrifice at Gibeon. |
| 3:2 | The people are still sacrificing at the high places, rather than at the tabernacle, which highlights the need for a central place of worship, as described in 1 Kings 3:2-4. |
2. God's Appearance to Solomon (1 Kings 3:5-15)
| 3:5 | God appears to Solomon in a dream and offers to grant him anything he desires, which leads to Solomon's request for wisdom, as seen in 1 Kings 3:9. |
| 3:9 | Solomon asks for wisdom and discernment, recognizing his limitations and dependence on God, and God is pleased with his request, as described in 1 Kings 3:10-12. |
3. Solomon's Request for Wisdom (1 Kings 3:9-12)
| 3:9 | Solomon asks for wisdom and discernment, recognizing his limitations and dependence on God, and God is pleased with his request, as described in 1 Kings 3:10-12. |
| 3:12 | God grants Solomon wisdom and also gives him wealth and honor, as described in 1 Kings 3:12-13. |
4. The Two Women and the Baby (1 Kings 3:16-28)
| 3:16 | The chapter describes a dispute between two women over a baby, which Solomon resolves with his wisdom, demonstrating his ability to discern right from wrong, as seen in 1 Kings 3:16-28. |
| 3:28 | The people are amazed at Solomon's wisdom and discernment, which demonstrates his ability to make wise decisions, as seen in 1 Kings 3:28. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of 1 Kings 3?
The main theme of 1 Kings 3 is Solomon's request for wisdom and God's response, which highlights the importance of seeking wisdom and discernment, as seen in 1 Kings 3:9-12. This theme is developed throughout the chapter, as Solomon's wisdom is demonstrated in his governance and decision-making, as seen in 1 Kings 3:1-28.
How does the chapter relate to the rest of 1 Kings?
The chapter is part of the larger narrative of 1 Kings, which describes the reign of Solomon and the divided kingdom, as seen in 1 Kings 1-2 and 1 Kings 3:1-28. The chapter looks forward to the rest of the book, which will describe the building of the temple and the decline of the kingdom.
What are some key characteristics of Solomon's wisdom?
Solomon's wisdom is characterized by his ability to discern right from wrong, as demonstrated by his judgment in the dispute between the two women, as seen in 1 Kings 3:16-28. His wisdom is also marked by his humility and recognition of his limitations, as seen in 1 Kings 3:7-9.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Kings 3:9 → Proverbs 1:7 | The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, and Solomon's request for wisdom is rooted in his fear of God, as seen in 1 Kings 3:9 and Proverbs 1:7. |
| 2 | 1 Kings 3:12 → 1 Corinthians 1:30 | Christ is the wisdom of God, and Solomon's wisdom is a foreshadowing of the wisdom that is found in Christ, as seen in 1 Kings 3:12 and 1 Corinthians 1:30. |
| 3 | 1 Kings 3:16 → Isaiah 11:3 | The Messiah will be characterized by his wisdom and discernment, as described in Isaiah 11:3, and Solomon's wisdom is a foreshadowing of this, as seen in 1 Kings 3:16-28. |
| 4 | 1 Kings 3:1 → Deuteronomy 17:14-20 | The king is to write a copy of the law and read it every day, as described in Deuteronomy 17:14-20, and Solomon's sacrifice at Gibeon is a fulfillment of this command, as seen in 1 Kings 3:1-4. |
| 5 | 1 Kings 3:5 → Numbers 12:6 | God speaks to Solomon in a dream, as described in 1 Kings 3:5, which is similar to the way that God spoke to Moses and other leaders in the Old Testament, as seen in Numbers 12:6. |
| 6 | 1 Kings 3:9 → Psalm 119:66 | The psalmist asks for wisdom and discernment, as described in Psalm 119:66, which is similar to Solomon's request in 1 Kings 3:9. |
| 7 | 1 Kings 3:12 → James 1:5 | If anyone lacks wisdom, they should ask God, as described in James 1:5, which is similar to Solomon's request in 1 Kings 3:9-12. |
| 8 | 1 Kings 3:16 → Matthew 10:16 | The disciples are sent out as sheep among wolves, and they need wisdom and discernment to navigate these challenges, as described in Matthew 10:16, which is similar to the wisdom and discernment that Solomon demonstrates in 1 Kings 3:16-28. |
| 9 | 1 Kings 3:1 → 1 Chronicles 29:10-19 | The chapter describes Solomon's sacrifice at Gibeon, which is also described in 1 Chronicles 29:10-19, and highlights the importance of worship and sacrifice in the life of the king and the people. |
| 10 | 1 Kings 3:9 → Ephesians 1:17 | The apostle Paul asks that the Ephesians would be given the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, as described in Ephesians 1:17, which is similar to Solomon's request in 1 Kings 3:9. |
Sermons on 1 Kings 3
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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How Quickly We Turn Aside by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the dangers of idolatry and how it can lead people away from God. He emphasizes that idols can take many forms, such as sports, entertainment |
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(Through the Bible) 1 Chronicles 20-29 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the beauty of constant worship and praises being offered to God. He mentions how in the times of David, there were four thousand men dedicat |
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(1 Kings) the Wisdom of Solomon by David Guzik | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of organization and order in the Bible. He uses the example of God organizing the Israelites in the book of Numbers to emphasiz |
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Get Your Fingers Out of Your Ears by Greg Locke | In this sermon, the preacher discusses why people, both physically and spiritually, stick their fingers in their ears and refuse to listen to the message of God. He believes there |
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Get Wisdom by John Piper | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom in order to find true and lasting happiness. He acknowledges that people may pursue temporary sources of hap |
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Solomon's Dream by Paul Cook | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of knowing how to use money and the futility of long life without God's help and wisdom. He challenges the audience to conside |
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The Tragedy of Solomons Life by Keith Daniel | This sermon delves into the tragic life of Solomon, highlighting his initial pursuit of God, the blessings he received, and the subsequent downfall due to pursuing self-glory, weal |
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Knowing God's Will by Peter Maiden | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the certainty of God's guidance for His children. He highlights that God is revealed as a shepherd and a father in the Bible, guiding His pe |
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A Hearing Heart (Part 1) by Phil Beach Jr. | Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the significance of having a 'hearing heart' through the story of Solomon in 1 Kings 3. He highlights how God invites Solomon to express his desires, reve |
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A Hearing Heart (Part 2) by Phil Beach Jr. | Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of having a 'hearing heart' that is both understanding and obedient to God's will, drawing from Solomon's request for wisdom in 1 Kings 3. |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 1 Kings 3
In this chapter, we see the establishment of Solomon's reign and the fulfillment of God's promises to David. Solomon's request for wisdom is a notable example of his humility and dependence on God, and God's response is a demonstration of his sovereignty and providence. The chapter also describes the wisdom and discernment that Solomon demonstrates in his governance, as he resolves disputes and makes wise decisions. As Matthew Henry notes, 'the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,' and Solomon's request for wisdom is rooted in his fear of God. The chapter is a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking wisdom and discernment, and of trusting in God's sovereignty and providence, as seen in 1 Kings 3:1-28. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
Solomon's Humility
Solomon recognizes his limitations and is willing to ask for help, demonstrating his humility and dependence on God, as seen in 1 Kings 3:7-9. This humility is a key factor in his ability to receive wisdom from God.
God's Sovereignty
God is the one who gives Solomon wisdom and wealth, highlighting his sovereignty and provision, as described in 1 Kings 3:12-13. This sovereignty is evident in God's ability to grant Solomon's requests and to fulfill his promises.
The Importance of Wisdom
The chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and discernment, as demonstrated by Solomon's request and God's response, as seen in 1 Kings 3:9-12. This emphasis on wisdom highlights its value in leadership and decision-making.