1 Kings 18
KingComments1 Kings 18:1
Sixth Prayer
Here the people go out against the enemy, contrary to 1 Kings 8:33, and pray to God for it (cf. 2 Chronicles 20:4-12). Praying toward the chosen city and temple means believing in the true presence of the God of the covenant in the temple. Fighting on God’s command does not exclude prayer, but makes it all the more necessary.
We can apply this in connection with the previous prayer to the battle for the gospel (Philippians 4:3). It is a battle against the evil powers of darkness to proclaim the good news on their territory. We all have this command (2 Timothy 4:5b).
1 Kings 18:2
Seventh Prayer
Solomon knows the heart of man. There is no man who does not sin. Therefore, it is necessary that God’s discipline must come. This happened in the exile to Babel (cf. Leviticus 26:33; 44). A return is also possible. In that case, conversion must take place. Then they can supplicate toward “the house”. Daniel did that (Daniel 6:11). He has confessed guilt (Daniel 9:5). God answered the prayer of Daniel by giving Cyrus in his heart to give His people the freedom (Psalms 106:46).
It is one of the “things revealed” (Deuteronomy 29:29b) that God puts us aside when we become unfaithful. The “secret things” (Deuteronomy 29:29a) means that He will act according to His counsels by first having us call to Him with repentance and then deliver us. With regard to Israel He will do this by working repentance in a remnant and fulfilling His promises to this remnant.
1 Kings 18:3
Seventh Prayer
Solomon knows the heart of man. There is no man who does not sin. Therefore, it is necessary that God’s discipline must come. This happened in the exile to Babel (cf. Leviticus 26:33; 44). A return is also possible. In that case, conversion must take place. Then they can supplicate toward “the house”. Daniel did that (Daniel 6:11). He has confessed guilt (Daniel 9:5). God answered the prayer of Daniel by giving Cyrus in his heart to give His people the freedom (Psalms 106:46).
It is one of the “things revealed” (Deuteronomy 29:29b) that God puts us aside when we become unfaithful. The “secret things” (Deuteronomy 29:29a) means that He will act according to His counsels by first having us call to Him with repentance and then deliver us. With regard to Israel He will do this by working repentance in a remnant and fulfilling His promises to this remnant.
1 Kings 18:4
Seventh Prayer
Solomon knows the heart of man. There is no man who does not sin. Therefore, it is necessary that God’s discipline must come. This happened in the exile to Babel (cf. Leviticus 26:33; 44). A return is also possible. In that case, conversion must take place. Then they can supplicate toward “the house”. Daniel did that (Daniel 6:11). He has confessed guilt (Daniel 9:5). God answered the prayer of Daniel by giving Cyrus in his heart to give His people the freedom (Psalms 106:46).
It is one of the “things revealed” (Deuteronomy 29:29b) that God puts us aside when we become unfaithful. The “secret things” (Deuteronomy 29:29a) means that He will act according to His counsels by first having us call to Him with repentance and then deliver us. With regard to Israel He will do this by working repentance in a remnant and fulfilling His promises to this remnant.
1 Kings 18:5
Seventh Prayer
Solomon knows the heart of man. There is no man who does not sin. Therefore, it is necessary that God’s discipline must come. This happened in the exile to Babel (cf. Leviticus 26:33; 44). A return is also possible. In that case, conversion must take place. Then they can supplicate toward “the house”. Daniel did that (Daniel 6:11). He has confessed guilt (Daniel 9:5). God answered the prayer of Daniel by giving Cyrus in his heart to give His people the freedom (Psalms 106:46).
It is one of the “things revealed” (Deuteronomy 29:29b) that God puts us aside when we become unfaithful. The “secret things” (Deuteronomy 29:29a) means that He will act according to His counsels by first having us call to Him with repentance and then deliver us. With regard to Israel He will do this by working repentance in a remnant and fulfilling His promises to this remnant.
1 Kings 18:6
Seventh Prayer
Solomon knows the heart of man. There is no man who does not sin. Therefore, it is necessary that God’s discipline must come. This happened in the exile to Babel (cf. Leviticus 26:33; 44). A return is also possible. In that case, conversion must take place. Then they can supplicate toward “the house”. Daniel did that (Daniel 6:11). He has confessed guilt (Daniel 9:5). God answered the prayer of Daniel by giving Cyrus in his heart to give His people the freedom (Psalms 106:46).
It is one of the “things revealed” (Deuteronomy 29:29b) that God puts us aside when we become unfaithful. The “secret things” (Deuteronomy 29:29a) means that He will act according to His counsels by first having us call to Him with repentance and then deliver us. With regard to Israel He will do this by working repentance in a remnant and fulfilling His promises to this remnant.
1 Kings 18:7
Seventh Prayer
Solomon knows the heart of man. There is no man who does not sin. Therefore, it is necessary that God’s discipline must come. This happened in the exile to Babel (cf. Leviticus 26:33; 44). A return is also possible. In that case, conversion must take place. Then they can supplicate toward “the house”. Daniel did that (Daniel 6:11). He has confessed guilt (Daniel 9:5). God answered the prayer of Daniel by giving Cyrus in his heart to give His people the freedom (Psalms 106:46).
It is one of the “things revealed” (Deuteronomy 29:29b) that God puts us aside when we become unfaithful. The “secret things” (Deuteronomy 29:29a) means that He will act according to His counsels by first having us call to Him with repentance and then deliver us. With regard to Israel He will do this by working repentance in a remnant and fulfilling His promises to this remnant.
1 Kings 18:8
Basis of Prayer
Solomon reminds God that His people are His inheritance and that He lived up to what He spoke through Moses when He led the people out of Egypt. What God does is always connected with what He has spoken and what was from the beginning.
1 Kings 18:9
Basis of Prayer
Solomon reminds God that His people are His inheritance and that He lived up to what He spoke through Moses when He led the people out of Egypt. What God does is always connected with what He has spoken and what was from the beginning.
1 Kings 18:10
The Faithfulness of the LORD
In 2 Chronicles 7 after the prayer fire comes from heaven to consume the sacrifice and the glory of the LORD fills the temple for the second time (2 Chronicles 7:1). This is lacking here because the emphasis here is on responsibility. We see this after arising from the prayer. Solomon speaks to the people and presents to them their responsibility. Each prayer at the same time gives a responsibility. First he praises the LORD that He has given His people rest. The rest of His people is the result of the rest He Himself found, depicted in the resting place of the ark in the temple.
Further Solomon points to the unchangeable faithfulness of the LORD, His absolute faithfulness which is demonstrated by the fact that He has fulfilled every word He has spoken. He also expresses the wish that He will be with them and guide them. The past is also a guarantee for the future, because as the LORD was with the fathers, He can also be with them (Hebrews 13:8).
In 1 Kings 8:58 the responsibility comes. In order to meet this, man also needs the help of God, that He inclines his heart to obedience. Day after day, “each day” (1 Kings 8:59), we depend on God’s help. The effect of this will be “that all the peoples of the earth may know that the LORD is God” and that “there is no one else” (1 Kings 8:60). Therefore Solomon points out that the heart must be perfect, undivided, with the LORD. There is nothing to share with the LORD that is not His. At the moment Solomon can still say that this is the case with the people. Unfortunately it will not stay that way and with us it is often not undivided.
1 Kings 18:11
The Faithfulness of the LORD
In 2 Chronicles 7 after the prayer fire comes from heaven to consume the sacrifice and the glory of the LORD fills the temple for the second time (2 Chronicles 7:1). This is lacking here because the emphasis here is on responsibility. We see this after arising from the prayer. Solomon speaks to the people and presents to them their responsibility. Each prayer at the same time gives a responsibility. First he praises the LORD that He has given His people rest. The rest of His people is the result of the rest He Himself found, depicted in the resting place of the ark in the temple.
Further Solomon points to the unchangeable faithfulness of the LORD, His absolute faithfulness which is demonstrated by the fact that He has fulfilled every word He has spoken. He also expresses the wish that He will be with them and guide them. The past is also a guarantee for the future, because as the LORD was with the fathers, He can also be with them (Hebrews 13:8).
In 1 Kings 8:58 the responsibility comes. In order to meet this, man also needs the help of God, that He inclines his heart to obedience. Day after day, “each day” (1 Kings 8:59), we depend on God’s help. The effect of this will be “that all the peoples of the earth may know that the LORD is God” and that “there is no one else” (1 Kings 8:60). Therefore Solomon points out that the heart must be perfect, undivided, with the LORD. There is nothing to share with the LORD that is not His. At the moment Solomon can still say that this is the case with the people. Unfortunately it will not stay that way and with us it is often not undivided.
1 Kings 18:12
The Faithfulness of the LORD
In 2 Chronicles 7 after the prayer fire comes from heaven to consume the sacrifice and the glory of the LORD fills the temple for the second time (2 Chronicles 7:1). This is lacking here because the emphasis here is on responsibility. We see this after arising from the prayer. Solomon speaks to the people and presents to them their responsibility. Each prayer at the same time gives a responsibility. First he praises the LORD that He has given His people rest. The rest of His people is the result of the rest He Himself found, depicted in the resting place of the ark in the temple.
Further Solomon points to the unchangeable faithfulness of the LORD, His absolute faithfulness which is demonstrated by the fact that He has fulfilled every word He has spoken. He also expresses the wish that He will be with them and guide them. The past is also a guarantee for the future, because as the LORD was with the fathers, He can also be with them (Hebrews 13:8).
In 1 Kings 8:58 the responsibility comes. In order to meet this, man also needs the help of God, that He inclines his heart to obedience. Day after day, “each day” (1 Kings 8:59), we depend on God’s help. The effect of this will be “that all the peoples of the earth may know that the LORD is God” and that “there is no one else” (1 Kings 8:60). Therefore Solomon points out that the heart must be perfect, undivided, with the LORD. There is nothing to share with the LORD that is not His. At the moment Solomon can still say that this is the case with the people. Unfortunately it will not stay that way and with us it is often not undivided.
1 Kings 18:13
The Faithfulness of the LORD
In 2 Chronicles 7 after the prayer fire comes from heaven to consume the sacrifice and the glory of the LORD fills the temple for the second time (2 Chronicles 7:1). This is lacking here because the emphasis here is on responsibility. We see this after arising from the prayer. Solomon speaks to the people and presents to them their responsibility. Each prayer at the same time gives a responsibility. First he praises the LORD that He has given His people rest. The rest of His people is the result of the rest He Himself found, depicted in the resting place of the ark in the temple.
Further Solomon points to the unchangeable faithfulness of the LORD, His absolute faithfulness which is demonstrated by the fact that He has fulfilled every word He has spoken. He also expresses the wish that He will be with them and guide them. The past is also a guarantee for the future, because as the LORD was with the fathers, He can also be with them (Hebrews 13:8).
In 1 Kings 8:58 the responsibility comes. In order to meet this, man also needs the help of God, that He inclines his heart to obedience. Day after day, “each day” (1 Kings 8:59), we depend on God’s help. The effect of this will be “that all the peoples of the earth may know that the LORD is God” and that “there is no one else” (1 Kings 8:60). Therefore Solomon points out that the heart must be perfect, undivided, with the LORD. There is nothing to share with the LORD that is not His. At the moment Solomon can still say that this is the case with the people. Unfortunately it will not stay that way and with us it is often not undivided.
1 Kings 18:14
The Faithfulness of the LORD
In 2 Chronicles 7 after the prayer fire comes from heaven to consume the sacrifice and the glory of the LORD fills the temple for the second time (2 Chronicles 7:1). This is lacking here because the emphasis here is on responsibility. We see this after arising from the prayer. Solomon speaks to the people and presents to them their responsibility. Each prayer at the same time gives a responsibility. First he praises the LORD that He has given His people rest. The rest of His people is the result of the rest He Himself found, depicted in the resting place of the ark in the temple.
Further Solomon points to the unchangeable faithfulness of the LORD, His absolute faithfulness which is demonstrated by the fact that He has fulfilled every word He has spoken. He also expresses the wish that He will be with them and guide them. The past is also a guarantee for the future, because as the LORD was with the fathers, He can also be with them (Hebrews 13:8).
In 1 Kings 8:58 the responsibility comes. In order to meet this, man also needs the help of God, that He inclines his heart to obedience. Day after day, “each day” (1 Kings 8:59), we depend on God’s help. The effect of this will be “that all the peoples of the earth may know that the LORD is God” and that “there is no one else” (1 Kings 8:60). Therefore Solomon points out that the heart must be perfect, undivided, with the LORD. There is nothing to share with the LORD that is not His. At the moment Solomon can still say that this is the case with the people. Unfortunately it will not stay that way and with us it is often not undivided.
1 Kings 18:15
The Faithfulness of the LORD
In 2 Chronicles 7 after the prayer fire comes from heaven to consume the sacrifice and the glory of the LORD fills the temple for the second time (2 Chronicles 7:1). This is lacking here because the emphasis here is on responsibility. We see this after arising from the prayer. Solomon speaks to the people and presents to them their responsibility. Each prayer at the same time gives a responsibility. First he praises the LORD that He has given His people rest. The rest of His people is the result of the rest He Himself found, depicted in the resting place of the ark in the temple.
Further Solomon points to the unchangeable faithfulness of the LORD, His absolute faithfulness which is demonstrated by the fact that He has fulfilled every word He has spoken. He also expresses the wish that He will be with them and guide them. The past is also a guarantee for the future, because as the LORD was with the fathers, He can also be with them (Hebrews 13:8).
In 1 Kings 8:58 the responsibility comes. In order to meet this, man also needs the help of God, that He inclines his heart to obedience. Day after day, “each day” (1 Kings 8:59), we depend on God’s help. The effect of this will be “that all the peoples of the earth may know that the LORD is God” and that “there is no one else” (1 Kings 8:60). Therefore Solomon points out that the heart must be perfect, undivided, with the LORD. There is nothing to share with the LORD that is not His. At the moment Solomon can still say that this is the case with the people. Unfortunately it will not stay that way and with us it is often not undivided.
1 Kings 18:16
The Faithfulness of the LORD
In 2 Chronicles 7 after the prayer fire comes from heaven to consume the sacrifice and the glory of the LORD fills the temple for the second time (2 Chronicles 7:1). This is lacking here because the emphasis here is on responsibility. We see this after arising from the prayer. Solomon speaks to the people and presents to them their responsibility. Each prayer at the same time gives a responsibility. First he praises the LORD that He has given His people rest. The rest of His people is the result of the rest He Himself found, depicted in the resting place of the ark in the temple.
Further Solomon points to the unchangeable faithfulness of the LORD, His absolute faithfulness which is demonstrated by the fact that He has fulfilled every word He has spoken. He also expresses the wish that He will be with them and guide them. The past is also a guarantee for the future, because as the LORD was with the fathers, He can also be with them (Hebrews 13:8).
In 1 Kings 8:58 the responsibility comes. In order to meet this, man also needs the help of God, that He inclines his heart to obedience. Day after day, “each day” (1 Kings 8:59), we depend on God’s help. The effect of this will be “that all the peoples of the earth may know that the LORD is God” and that “there is no one else” (1 Kings 8:60). Therefore Solomon points out that the heart must be perfect, undivided, with the LORD. There is nothing to share with the LORD that is not His. At the moment Solomon can still say that this is the case with the people. Unfortunately it will not stay that way and with us it is often not undivided.
1 Kings 18:17
The Faithfulness of the LORD
In 2 Chronicles 7 after the prayer fire comes from heaven to consume the sacrifice and the glory of the LORD fills the temple for the second time (2 Chronicles 7:1). This is lacking here because the emphasis here is on responsibility. We see this after arising from the prayer. Solomon speaks to the people and presents to them their responsibility. Each prayer at the same time gives a responsibility. First he praises the LORD that He has given His people rest. The rest of His people is the result of the rest He Himself found, depicted in the resting place of the ark in the temple.
Further Solomon points to the unchangeable faithfulness of the LORD, His absolute faithfulness which is demonstrated by the fact that He has fulfilled every word He has spoken. He also expresses the wish that He will be with them and guide them. The past is also a guarantee for the future, because as the LORD was with the fathers, He can also be with them (Hebrews 13:8).
In 1 Kings 8:58 the responsibility comes. In order to meet this, man also needs the help of God, that He inclines his heart to obedience. Day after day, “each day” (1 Kings 8:59), we depend on God’s help. The effect of this will be “that all the peoples of the earth may know that the LORD is God” and that “there is no one else” (1 Kings 8:60). Therefore Solomon points out that the heart must be perfect, undivided, with the LORD. There is nothing to share with the LORD that is not His. At the moment Solomon can still say that this is the case with the people. Unfortunately it will not stay that way and with us it is often not undivided.
1 Kings 18:18
Solomon Offers Sacrifice
The great dedication of the temple ends with the offering of sacrifices. The temple is also discussed later, because everything in Solomon’s life revolves around the temple. Here the sacrifice is connected to the temple. The other aspect is the temple as a dwelling place. This is about approaching God which is not possible with empty hands. The size of the sacrifice indicates the greatness of the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus.
This multitude of sacrifices cannot, of course, be fully brought on the altar. Therefore Solomon sanctifies the middle of the court of the temple. The whole middle part becomes a large altar. This initiative has God’s approval. It shows us that there is room for spiritual initiatives that arise from a desire to honor God.
1 Kings 18:19
Solomon Offers Sacrifice
The great dedication of the temple ends with the offering of sacrifices. The temple is also discussed later, because everything in Solomon’s life revolves around the temple. Here the sacrifice is connected to the temple. The other aspect is the temple as a dwelling place. This is about approaching God which is not possible with empty hands. The size of the sacrifice indicates the greatness of the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus.
This multitude of sacrifices cannot, of course, be fully brought on the altar. Therefore Solomon sanctifies the middle of the court of the temple. The whole middle part becomes a large altar. This initiative has God’s approval. It shows us that there is room for spiritual initiatives that arise from a desire to honor God.
1 Kings 18:20
Solomon Offers Sacrifice
The great dedication of the temple ends with the offering of sacrifices. The temple is also discussed later, because everything in Solomon’s life revolves around the temple. Here the sacrifice is connected to the temple. The other aspect is the temple as a dwelling place. This is about approaching God which is not possible with empty hands. The size of the sacrifice indicates the greatness of the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus.
This multitude of sacrifices cannot, of course, be fully brought on the altar. Therefore Solomon sanctifies the middle of the court of the temple. The whole middle part becomes a large altar. This initiative has God’s approval. It shows us that there is room for spiritual initiatives that arise from a desire to honor God.
1 Kings 18:21
Feast
The size of the land is described to show that the whole people share in the feast. The feast lasts seven days and seven days, i.e. the Dedication Feast and the Feast of Booths (2 Chronicles 7:9).
The eighth day is the great day of the Feast of Booths (John 7:37). When the people leave, they wish the king the blessing of God. It’s the climax: the people are in the blessing of the land.
1 Kings 18:22
Feast
The size of the land is described to show that the whole people share in the feast. The feast lasts seven days and seven days, i.e. the Dedication Feast and the Feast of Booths (2 Chronicles 7:9).
The eighth day is the great day of the Feast of Booths (John 7:37). When the people leave, they wish the king the blessing of God. It’s the climax: the people are in the blessing of the land.
1 Kings 18:24
Answer From the LORD
When Solomon has finished building (1 Kings 9:1), the LORD appears to him again (1 Kings 9:2). It will be the twenty-fourth year of his government. He has been building for twenty years (1 Kings 9:10). He has built the temple in seven years, which he began in the fourth year of his reign, and then he has built his house in thirteen years. He is here in the second part of his government and the decline of his government has already begun. The freshness of the beginning is no longer there. Things have come into Solomon’s life that will lead him to a fall.
The LORD appears for the second time to Solomon. He previously appeared to him at Gibeon, now He appears to him, as it seems, in Jerusalem. At His first appearance He told Solomon to ask what he wanted. Now, after so many years of prosperity, He lets him know what his responsibility is.
The LORD returns to his prayer from the eleventh year of his reign, the prayer at the dedication of the temple. Now, thirteen years later, the answer comes. The LORD first says to him that He has heard his prayer and supplication. It is a great encouragement for everyone who prays and supplicates to know that God hears prayer. The LORD reminds Solomon that He consecrated the temple by establishing His Name there forever (cf. Deuteronomy 12:11a). Solomon also asked if the eyes of the LORD will always be focused on it (1 Kings 8:29). The answer of the LORD goes further. He says that His eyes and His heart will always be there.
Then He reminds Solomon of his responsibility. The throne of Solomon will be established when he stays in the ways of the LORD. There is an “if” in 1 Kings 9:4 and 1 Kings 9:6, both for Solomon and for the whole people. That is the side of responsibility. God warns them to keep His commandments and not to follow any other gods. If they do not listen, He must cut them off from the land, and His temple He will cast out of His sight so that it becomes a mockery (Deuteronomy 28:37; 45; 63).
All who will see the destroyed temple will ask why (Deuteronomy 29:23-26). The answer is: because the people have left the LORD. How about the promises, then, is God’s business and not the business of an unfaithful people.
The words that Solomon prayed for the people in view of their deviation now come to him personally. What one proclaims oneself, returns to one’s own head. That should not change the preaching, but keep the preacher. It comes down to the fact that someone must be what he preaches. All the kings after him have experienced that. It also applies to us, because the kingdom is also entrusted to us.
1 Kings 18:25
Answer From the LORD
When Solomon has finished building (1 Kings 9:1), the LORD appears to him again (1 Kings 9:2). It will be the twenty-fourth year of his government. He has been building for twenty years (1 Kings 9:10). He has built the temple in seven years, which he began in the fourth year of his reign, and then he has built his house in thirteen years. He is here in the second part of his government and the decline of his government has already begun. The freshness of the beginning is no longer there. Things have come into Solomon’s life that will lead him to a fall.
The LORD appears for the second time to Solomon. He previously appeared to him at Gibeon, now He appears to him, as it seems, in Jerusalem. At His first appearance He told Solomon to ask what he wanted. Now, after so many years of prosperity, He lets him know what his responsibility is.
The LORD returns to his prayer from the eleventh year of his reign, the prayer at the dedication of the temple. Now, thirteen years later, the answer comes. The LORD first says to him that He has heard his prayer and supplication. It is a great encouragement for everyone who prays and supplicates to know that God hears prayer. The LORD reminds Solomon that He consecrated the temple by establishing His Name there forever (cf. Deuteronomy 12:11a). Solomon also asked if the eyes of the LORD will always be focused on it (1 Kings 8:29). The answer of the LORD goes further. He says that His eyes and His heart will always be there.
Then He reminds Solomon of his responsibility. The throne of Solomon will be established when he stays in the ways of the LORD. There is an “if” in 1 Kings 9:4 and 1 Kings 9:6, both for Solomon and for the whole people. That is the side of responsibility. God warns them to keep His commandments and not to follow any other gods. If they do not listen, He must cut them off from the land, and His temple He will cast out of His sight so that it becomes a mockery (Deuteronomy 28:37; 45; 63).
All who will see the destroyed temple will ask why (Deuteronomy 29:23-26). The answer is: because the people have left the LORD. How about the promises, then, is God’s business and not the business of an unfaithful people.
The words that Solomon prayed for the people in view of their deviation now come to him personally. What one proclaims oneself, returns to one’s own head. That should not change the preaching, but keep the preacher. It comes down to the fact that someone must be what he preaches. All the kings after him have experienced that. It also applies to us, because the kingdom is also entrusted to us.
1 Kings 18:26
Answer From the LORD
When Solomon has finished building (1 Kings 9:1), the LORD appears to him again (1 Kings 9:2). It will be the twenty-fourth year of his government. He has been building for twenty years (1 Kings 9:10). He has built the temple in seven years, which he began in the fourth year of his reign, and then he has built his house in thirteen years. He is here in the second part of his government and the decline of his government has already begun. The freshness of the beginning is no longer there. Things have come into Solomon’s life that will lead him to a fall.
The LORD appears for the second time to Solomon. He previously appeared to him at Gibeon, now He appears to him, as it seems, in Jerusalem. At His first appearance He told Solomon to ask what he wanted. Now, after so many years of prosperity, He lets him know what his responsibility is.
The LORD returns to his prayer from the eleventh year of his reign, the prayer at the dedication of the temple. Now, thirteen years later, the answer comes. The LORD first says to him that He has heard his prayer and supplication. It is a great encouragement for everyone who prays and supplicates to know that God hears prayer. The LORD reminds Solomon that He consecrated the temple by establishing His Name there forever (cf. Deuteronomy 12:11a). Solomon also asked if the eyes of the LORD will always be focused on it (1 Kings 8:29). The answer of the LORD goes further. He says that His eyes and His heart will always be there.
Then He reminds Solomon of his responsibility. The throne of Solomon will be established when he stays in the ways of the LORD. There is an “if” in 1 Kings 9:4 and 1 Kings 9:6, both for Solomon and for the whole people. That is the side of responsibility. God warns them to keep His commandments and not to follow any other gods. If they do not listen, He must cut them off from the land, and His temple He will cast out of His sight so that it becomes a mockery (Deuteronomy 28:37; 45; 63).
All who will see the destroyed temple will ask why (Deuteronomy 29:23-26). The answer is: because the people have left the LORD. How about the promises, then, is God’s business and not the business of an unfaithful people.
The words that Solomon prayed for the people in view of their deviation now come to him personally. What one proclaims oneself, returns to one’s own head. That should not change the preaching, but keep the preacher. It comes down to the fact that someone must be what he preaches. All the kings after him have experienced that. It also applies to us, because the kingdom is also entrusted to us.
1 Kings 18:27
Answer From the LORD
When Solomon has finished building (1 Kings 9:1), the LORD appears to him again (1 Kings 9:2). It will be the twenty-fourth year of his government. He has been building for twenty years (1 Kings 9:10). He has built the temple in seven years, which he began in the fourth year of his reign, and then he has built his house in thirteen years. He is here in the second part of his government and the decline of his government has already begun. The freshness of the beginning is no longer there. Things have come into Solomon’s life that will lead him to a fall.
The LORD appears for the second time to Solomon. He previously appeared to him at Gibeon, now He appears to him, as it seems, in Jerusalem. At His first appearance He told Solomon to ask what he wanted. Now, after so many years of prosperity, He lets him know what his responsibility is.
The LORD returns to his prayer from the eleventh year of his reign, the prayer at the dedication of the temple. Now, thirteen years later, the answer comes. The LORD first says to him that He has heard his prayer and supplication. It is a great encouragement for everyone who prays and supplicates to know that God hears prayer. The LORD reminds Solomon that He consecrated the temple by establishing His Name there forever (cf. Deuteronomy 12:11a). Solomon also asked if the eyes of the LORD will always be focused on it (1 Kings 8:29). The answer of the LORD goes further. He says that His eyes and His heart will always be there.
Then He reminds Solomon of his responsibility. The throne of Solomon will be established when he stays in the ways of the LORD. There is an “if” in 1 Kings 9:4 and 1 Kings 9:6, both for Solomon and for the whole people. That is the side of responsibility. God warns them to keep His commandments and not to follow any other gods. If they do not listen, He must cut them off from the land, and His temple He will cast out of His sight so that it becomes a mockery (Deuteronomy 28:37; 45; 63).
All who will see the destroyed temple will ask why (Deuteronomy 29:23-26). The answer is: because the people have left the LORD. How about the promises, then, is God’s business and not the business of an unfaithful people.
The words that Solomon prayed for the people in view of their deviation now come to him personally. What one proclaims oneself, returns to one’s own head. That should not change the preaching, but keep the preacher. It comes down to the fact that someone must be what he preaches. All the kings after him have experienced that. It also applies to us, because the kingdom is also entrusted to us.
1 Kings 18:28
Answer From the LORD
When Solomon has finished building (1 Kings 9:1), the LORD appears to him again (1 Kings 9:2). It will be the twenty-fourth year of his government. He has been building for twenty years (1 Kings 9:10). He has built the temple in seven years, which he began in the fourth year of his reign, and then he has built his house in thirteen years. He is here in the second part of his government and the decline of his government has already begun. The freshness of the beginning is no longer there. Things have come into Solomon’s life that will lead him to a fall.
The LORD appears for the second time to Solomon. He previously appeared to him at Gibeon, now He appears to him, as it seems, in Jerusalem. At His first appearance He told Solomon to ask what he wanted. Now, after so many years of prosperity, He lets him know what his responsibility is.
The LORD returns to his prayer from the eleventh year of his reign, the prayer at the dedication of the temple. Now, thirteen years later, the answer comes. The LORD first says to him that He has heard his prayer and supplication. It is a great encouragement for everyone who prays and supplicates to know that God hears prayer. The LORD reminds Solomon that He consecrated the temple by establishing His Name there forever (cf. Deuteronomy 12:11a). Solomon also asked if the eyes of the LORD will always be focused on it (1 Kings 8:29). The answer of the LORD goes further. He says that His eyes and His heart will always be there.
Then He reminds Solomon of his responsibility. The throne of Solomon will be established when he stays in the ways of the LORD. There is an “if” in 1 Kings 9:4 and 1 Kings 9:6, both for Solomon and for the whole people. That is the side of responsibility. God warns them to keep His commandments and not to follow any other gods. If they do not listen, He must cut them off from the land, and His temple He will cast out of His sight so that it becomes a mockery (Deuteronomy 28:37; 45; 63).
All who will see the destroyed temple will ask why (Deuteronomy 29:23-26). The answer is: because the people have left the LORD. How about the promises, then, is God’s business and not the business of an unfaithful people.
The words that Solomon prayed for the people in view of their deviation now come to him personally. What one proclaims oneself, returns to one’s own head. That should not change the preaching, but keep the preacher. It comes down to the fact that someone must be what he preaches. All the kings after him have experienced that. It also applies to us, because the kingdom is also entrusted to us.
1 Kings 18:29
Answer From the LORD
When Solomon has finished building (1 Kings 9:1), the LORD appears to him again (1 Kings 9:2). It will be the twenty-fourth year of his government. He has been building for twenty years (1 Kings 9:10). He has built the temple in seven years, which he began in the fourth year of his reign, and then he has built his house in thirteen years. He is here in the second part of his government and the decline of his government has already begun. The freshness of the beginning is no longer there. Things have come into Solomon’s life that will lead him to a fall.
The LORD appears for the second time to Solomon. He previously appeared to him at Gibeon, now He appears to him, as it seems, in Jerusalem. At His first appearance He told Solomon to ask what he wanted. Now, after so many years of prosperity, He lets him know what his responsibility is.
The LORD returns to his prayer from the eleventh year of his reign, the prayer at the dedication of the temple. Now, thirteen years later, the answer comes. The LORD first says to him that He has heard his prayer and supplication. It is a great encouragement for everyone who prays and supplicates to know that God hears prayer. The LORD reminds Solomon that He consecrated the temple by establishing His Name there forever (cf. Deuteronomy 12:11a). Solomon also asked if the eyes of the LORD will always be focused on it (1 Kings 8:29). The answer of the LORD goes further. He says that His eyes and His heart will always be there.
Then He reminds Solomon of his responsibility. The throne of Solomon will be established when he stays in the ways of the LORD. There is an “if” in 1 Kings 9:4 and 1 Kings 9:6, both for Solomon and for the whole people. That is the side of responsibility. God warns them to keep His commandments and not to follow any other gods. If they do not listen, He must cut them off from the land, and His temple He will cast out of His sight so that it becomes a mockery (Deuteronomy 28:37; 45; 63).
All who will see the destroyed temple will ask why (Deuteronomy 29:23-26). The answer is: because the people have left the LORD. How about the promises, then, is God’s business and not the business of an unfaithful people.
The words that Solomon prayed for the people in view of their deviation now come to him personally. What one proclaims oneself, returns to one’s own head. That should not change the preaching, but keep the preacher. It comes down to the fact that someone must be what he preaches. All the kings after him have experienced that. It also applies to us, because the kingdom is also entrusted to us.
1 Kings 18:30
Answer From the LORD
When Solomon has finished building (1 Kings 9:1), the LORD appears to him again (1 Kings 9:2). It will be the twenty-fourth year of his government. He has been building for twenty years (1 Kings 9:10). He has built the temple in seven years, which he began in the fourth year of his reign, and then he has built his house in thirteen years. He is here in the second part of his government and the decline of his government has already begun. The freshness of the beginning is no longer there. Things have come into Solomon’s life that will lead him to a fall.
The LORD appears for the second time to Solomon. He previously appeared to him at Gibeon, now He appears to him, as it seems, in Jerusalem. At His first appearance He told Solomon to ask what he wanted. Now, after so many years of prosperity, He lets him know what his responsibility is.
The LORD returns to his prayer from the eleventh year of his reign, the prayer at the dedication of the temple. Now, thirteen years later, the answer comes. The LORD first says to him that He has heard his prayer and supplication. It is a great encouragement for everyone who prays and supplicates to know that God hears prayer. The LORD reminds Solomon that He consecrated the temple by establishing His Name there forever (cf. Deuteronomy 12:11a). Solomon also asked if the eyes of the LORD will always be focused on it (1 Kings 8:29). The answer of the LORD goes further. He says that His eyes and His heart will always be there.
Then He reminds Solomon of his responsibility. The throne of Solomon will be established when he stays in the ways of the LORD. There is an “if” in 1 Kings 9:4 and 1 Kings 9:6, both for Solomon and for the whole people. That is the side of responsibility. God warns them to keep His commandments and not to follow any other gods. If they do not listen, He must cut them off from the land, and His temple He will cast out of His sight so that it becomes a mockery (Deuteronomy 28:37; 45; 63).
All who will see the destroyed temple will ask why (Deuteronomy 29:23-26). The answer is: because the people have left the LORD. How about the promises, then, is God’s business and not the business of an unfaithful people.
The words that Solomon prayed for the people in view of their deviation now come to him personally. What one proclaims oneself, returns to one’s own head. That should not change the preaching, but keep the preacher. It comes down to the fact that someone must be what he preaches. All the kings after him have experienced that. It also applies to us, because the kingdom is also entrusted to us.
1 Kings 18:31
Answer From the LORD
When Solomon has finished building (1 Kings 9:1), the LORD appears to him again (1 Kings 9:2). It will be the twenty-fourth year of his government. He has been building for twenty years (1 Kings 9:10). He has built the temple in seven years, which he began in the fourth year of his reign, and then he has built his house in thirteen years. He is here in the second part of his government and the decline of his government has already begun. The freshness of the beginning is no longer there. Things have come into Solomon’s life that will lead him to a fall.
The LORD appears for the second time to Solomon. He previously appeared to him at Gibeon, now He appears to him, as it seems, in Jerusalem. At His first appearance He told Solomon to ask what he wanted. Now, after so many years of prosperity, He lets him know what his responsibility is.
The LORD returns to his prayer from the eleventh year of his reign, the prayer at the dedication of the temple. Now, thirteen years later, the answer comes. The LORD first says to him that He has heard his prayer and supplication. It is a great encouragement for everyone who prays and supplicates to know that God hears prayer. The LORD reminds Solomon that He consecrated the temple by establishing His Name there forever (cf. Deuteronomy 12:11a). Solomon also asked if the eyes of the LORD will always be focused on it (1 Kings 8:29). The answer of the LORD goes further. He says that His eyes and His heart will always be there.
Then He reminds Solomon of his responsibility. The throne of Solomon will be established when he stays in the ways of the LORD. There is an “if” in 1 Kings 9:4 and 1 Kings 9:6, both for Solomon and for the whole people. That is the side of responsibility. God warns them to keep His commandments and not to follow any other gods. If they do not listen, He must cut them off from the land, and His temple He will cast out of His sight so that it becomes a mockery (Deuteronomy 28:37; 45; 63).
All who will see the destroyed temple will ask why (Deuteronomy 29:23-26). The answer is: because the people have left the LORD. How about the promises, then, is God’s business and not the business of an unfaithful people.
The words that Solomon prayed for the people in view of their deviation now come to him personally. What one proclaims oneself, returns to one’s own head. That should not change the preaching, but keep the preacher. It comes down to the fact that someone must be what he preaches. All the kings after him have experienced that. It also applies to us, because the kingdom is also entrusted to us.
1 Kings 18:32
Answer From the LORD
When Solomon has finished building (1 Kings 9:1), the LORD appears to him again (1 Kings 9:2). It will be the twenty-fourth year of his government. He has been building for twenty years (1 Kings 9:10). He has built the temple in seven years, which he began in the fourth year of his reign, and then he has built his house in thirteen years. He is here in the second part of his government and the decline of his government has already begun. The freshness of the beginning is no longer there. Things have come into Solomon’s life that will lead him to a fall.
The LORD appears for the second time to Solomon. He previously appeared to him at Gibeon, now He appears to him, as it seems, in Jerusalem. At His first appearance He told Solomon to ask what he wanted. Now, after so many years of prosperity, He lets him know what his responsibility is.
The LORD returns to his prayer from the eleventh year of his reign, the prayer at the dedication of the temple. Now, thirteen years later, the answer comes. The LORD first says to him that He has heard his prayer and supplication. It is a great encouragement for everyone who prays and supplicates to know that God hears prayer. The LORD reminds Solomon that He consecrated the temple by establishing His Name there forever (cf. Deuteronomy 12:11a). Solomon also asked if the eyes of the LORD will always be focused on it (1 Kings 8:29). The answer of the LORD goes further. He says that His eyes and His heart will always be there.
Then He reminds Solomon of his responsibility. The throne of Solomon will be established when he stays in the ways of the LORD. There is an “if” in 1 Kings 9:4 and 1 Kings 9:6, both for Solomon and for the whole people. That is the side of responsibility. God warns them to keep His commandments and not to follow any other gods. If they do not listen, He must cut them off from the land, and His temple He will cast out of His sight so that it becomes a mockery (Deuteronomy 28:37; 45; 63).
All who will see the destroyed temple will ask why (Deuteronomy 29:23-26). The answer is: because the people have left the LORD. How about the promises, then, is God’s business and not the business of an unfaithful people.
The words that Solomon prayed for the people in view of their deviation now come to him personally. What one proclaims oneself, returns to one’s own head. That should not change the preaching, but keep the preacher. It comes down to the fact that someone must be what he preaches. All the kings after him have experienced that. It also applies to us, because the kingdom is also entrusted to us.
1 Kings 18:33
Cities for Hiram
After Solomon has finished the two houses he has built, he gives twenty cities to Hiram king of Tyre. Possibly Solomon borrowed gold and gave twenty cities as security. With this he made God’s inheritance smaller. They are cities in the promised land and Hiram cannot appreciate them. It seems that Hiram returned the cities, probably because Solomon paid his debt (2 Chronicles 8:2).
Hiram did help with the building of the temple, but he has no interest in it, nor in the cities that Solomon gave him. He even despises the cities, which is evident from the name he gives to them. “Kabul” literally means ’as good as nothing’. Someone can be at work for the people of God, the church, by working on a certain work, but still have no interest for it. There is then a participation, but there is no relation, there is no taste of the heavenly land.
1 Kings 18:34
Cities for Hiram
After Solomon has finished the two houses he has built, he gives twenty cities to Hiram king of Tyre. Possibly Solomon borrowed gold and gave twenty cities as security. With this he made God’s inheritance smaller. They are cities in the promised land and Hiram cannot appreciate them. It seems that Hiram returned the cities, probably because Solomon paid his debt (2 Chronicles 8:2).
Hiram did help with the building of the temple, but he has no interest in it, nor in the cities that Solomon gave him. He even despises the cities, which is evident from the name he gives to them. “Kabul” literally means ’as good as nothing’. Someone can be at work for the people of God, the church, by working on a certain work, but still have no interest for it. There is then a participation, but there is no relation, there is no taste of the heavenly land.
1 Kings 18:35
Cities for Hiram
After Solomon has finished the two houses he has built, he gives twenty cities to Hiram king of Tyre. Possibly Solomon borrowed gold and gave twenty cities as security. With this he made God’s inheritance smaller. They are cities in the promised land and Hiram cannot appreciate them. It seems that Hiram returned the cities, probably because Solomon paid his debt (2 Chronicles 8:2).
Hiram did help with the building of the temple, but he has no interest in it, nor in the cities that Solomon gave him. He even despises the cities, which is evident from the name he gives to them. “Kabul” literally means ’as good as nothing’. Someone can be at work for the people of God, the church, by working on a certain work, but still have no interest for it. There is then a participation, but there is no relation, there is no taste of the heavenly land.
1 Kings 18:36
Cities for Hiram
After Solomon has finished the two houses he has built, he gives twenty cities to Hiram king of Tyre. Possibly Solomon borrowed gold and gave twenty cities as security. With this he made God’s inheritance smaller. They are cities in the promised land and Hiram cannot appreciate them. It seems that Hiram returned the cities, probably because Solomon paid his debt (2 Chronicles 8:2).
Hiram did help with the building of the temple, but he has no interest in it, nor in the cities that Solomon gave him. He even despises the cities, which is evident from the name he gives to them. “Kabul” literally means ’as good as nothing’. Someone can be at work for the people of God, the church, by working on a certain work, but still have no interest for it. There is then a participation, but there is no relation, there is no taste of the heavenly land.
1 Kings 18:37
Cities for Hiram
After Solomon has finished the two houses he has built, he gives twenty cities to Hiram king of Tyre. Possibly Solomon borrowed gold and gave twenty cities as security. With this he made God’s inheritance smaller. They are cities in the promised land and Hiram cannot appreciate them. It seems that Hiram returned the cities, probably because Solomon paid his debt (2 Chronicles 8:2).
Hiram did help with the building of the temple, but he has no interest in it, nor in the cities that Solomon gave him. He even despises the cities, which is evident from the name he gives to them. “Kabul” literally means ’as good as nothing’. Someone can be at work for the people of God, the church, by working on a certain work, but still have no interest for it. There is then a participation, but there is no relation, there is no taste of the heavenly land.
1 Kings 18:38
The Buildings of Solomon
Solomon has built a lot. He strengthens cities and builds new ones. Everything he desires to build (1 Kings 9:1; 19), he builds. This building spirit goes further than just building the temple and his palace. These are buildings that are according to God’s will. The desire to build other buildings does not have to be wrong at first. It seems, however, that he has gone too far in his building-lust and that in the end it does not give him any peace (Ecclesiastes 2:4-11). It may be that we already have a warning here that his heart is no longer completely focused on the LORD. Thus we too can begin in the Spirit, but end in the flesh (Galatians 3:3).
His lust to build also means an enormous burden for the people who have to contribute to this in the form of taxes, under which they sigh (1 Kings 12:4). This will not happen when the Lord Jesus reigns in Zion, for He says: “My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:30).
What Pharaoh does (1 Kings 9:16), the Israelites should have done. Wherever Solomon builds, he encounters remaining Canaanites. The time of extermination is over; it should have happened under Joshua and in the time that followed. It can also be the same in the church. The time for action may be over and the only thing that sometimes remains is to bear the consequences.
But Solomon does make the enemies slaves of the Israelites. This does not apply to the children of God’s people. They are men of war to fight for the LORD, and servants to serve the LORD. The number and function of the chief officers is given.
1 Kings 9:24 points back to a previous event (1 Kings 3:1) and rectifies what happened there. With the departure of Pharaoh’s daughter from the city of David, there is room for the building of the Millo, which is done by Solomon. The Millo is a fortress near Jerusalem.
1 Kings 18:39
The Buildings of Solomon
Solomon has built a lot. He strengthens cities and builds new ones. Everything he desires to build (1 Kings 9:1; 19), he builds. This building spirit goes further than just building the temple and his palace. These are buildings that are according to God’s will. The desire to build other buildings does not have to be wrong at first. It seems, however, that he has gone too far in his building-lust and that in the end it does not give him any peace (Ecclesiastes 2:4-11). It may be that we already have a warning here that his heart is no longer completely focused on the LORD. Thus we too can begin in the Spirit, but end in the flesh (Galatians 3:3).
His lust to build also means an enormous burden for the people who have to contribute to this in the form of taxes, under which they sigh (1 Kings 12:4). This will not happen when the Lord Jesus reigns in Zion, for He says: “My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:30).
What Pharaoh does (1 Kings 9:16), the Israelites should have done. Wherever Solomon builds, he encounters remaining Canaanites. The time of extermination is over; it should have happened under Joshua and in the time that followed. It can also be the same in the church. The time for action may be over and the only thing that sometimes remains is to bear the consequences.
But Solomon does make the enemies slaves of the Israelites. This does not apply to the children of God’s people. They are men of war to fight for the LORD, and servants to serve the LORD. The number and function of the chief officers is given.
1 Kings 9:24 points back to a previous event (1 Kings 3:1) and rectifies what happened there. With the departure of Pharaoh’s daughter from the city of David, there is room for the building of the Millo, which is done by Solomon. The Millo is a fortress near Jerusalem.
1 Kings 18:40
The Buildings of Solomon
Solomon has built a lot. He strengthens cities and builds new ones. Everything he desires to build (1 Kings 9:1; 19), he builds. This building spirit goes further than just building the temple and his palace. These are buildings that are according to God’s will. The desire to build other buildings does not have to be wrong at first. It seems, however, that he has gone too far in his building-lust and that in the end it does not give him any peace (Ecclesiastes 2:4-11). It may be that we already have a warning here that his heart is no longer completely focused on the LORD. Thus we too can begin in the Spirit, but end in the flesh (Galatians 3:3).
His lust to build also means an enormous burden for the people who have to contribute to this in the form of taxes, under which they sigh (1 Kings 12:4). This will not happen when the Lord Jesus reigns in Zion, for He says: “My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:30).
What Pharaoh does (1 Kings 9:16), the Israelites should have done. Wherever Solomon builds, he encounters remaining Canaanites. The time of extermination is over; it should have happened under Joshua and in the time that followed. It can also be the same in the church. The time for action may be over and the only thing that sometimes remains is to bear the consequences.
But Solomon does make the enemies slaves of the Israelites. This does not apply to the children of God’s people. They are men of war to fight for the LORD, and servants to serve the LORD. The number and function of the chief officers is given.
1 Kings 9:24 points back to a previous event (1 Kings 3:1) and rectifies what happened there. With the departure of Pharaoh’s daughter from the city of David, there is room for the building of the Millo, which is done by Solomon. The Millo is a fortress near Jerusalem.
1 Kings 18:41
The Buildings of Solomon
Solomon has built a lot. He strengthens cities and builds new ones. Everything he desires to build (1 Kings 9:1; 19), he builds. This building spirit goes further than just building the temple and his palace. These are buildings that are according to God’s will. The desire to build other buildings does not have to be wrong at first. It seems, however, that he has gone too far in his building-lust and that in the end it does not give him any peace (Ecclesiastes 2:4-11). It may be that we already have a warning here that his heart is no longer completely focused on the LORD. Thus we too can begin in the Spirit, but end in the flesh (Galatians 3:3).
His lust to build also means an enormous burden for the people who have to contribute to this in the form of taxes, under which they sigh (1 Kings 12:4). This will not happen when the Lord Jesus reigns in Zion, for He says: “My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:30).
What Pharaoh does (1 Kings 9:16), the Israelites should have done. Wherever Solomon builds, he encounters remaining Canaanites. The time of extermination is over; it should have happened under Joshua and in the time that followed. It can also be the same in the church. The time for action may be over and the only thing that sometimes remains is to bear the consequences.
But Solomon does make the enemies slaves of the Israelites. This does not apply to the children of God’s people. They are men of war to fight for the LORD, and servants to serve the LORD. The number and function of the chief officers is given.
1 Kings 9:24 points back to a previous event (1 Kings 3:1) and rectifies what happened there. With the departure of Pharaoh’s daughter from the city of David, there is room for the building of the Millo, which is done by Solomon. The Millo is a fortress near Jerusalem.
1 Kings 18:42
The Buildings of Solomon
Solomon has built a lot. He strengthens cities and builds new ones. Everything he desires to build (1 Kings 9:1; 19), he builds. This building spirit goes further than just building the temple and his palace. These are buildings that are according to God’s will. The desire to build other buildings does not have to be wrong at first. It seems, however, that he has gone too far in his building-lust and that in the end it does not give him any peace (Ecclesiastes 2:4-11). It may be that we already have a warning here that his heart is no longer completely focused on the LORD. Thus we too can begin in the Spirit, but end in the flesh (Galatians 3:3).
His lust to build also means an enormous burden for the people who have to contribute to this in the form of taxes, under which they sigh (1 Kings 12:4). This will not happen when the Lord Jesus reigns in Zion, for He says: “My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:30).
What Pharaoh does (1 Kings 9:16), the Israelites should have done. Wherever Solomon builds, he encounters remaining Canaanites. The time of extermination is over; it should have happened under Joshua and in the time that followed. It can also be the same in the church. The time for action may be over and the only thing that sometimes remains is to bear the consequences.
But Solomon does make the enemies slaves of the Israelites. This does not apply to the children of God’s people. They are men of war to fight for the LORD, and servants to serve the LORD. The number and function of the chief officers is given.
1 Kings 9:24 points back to a previous event (1 Kings 3:1) and rectifies what happened there. With the departure of Pharaoh’s daughter from the city of David, there is room for the building of the Millo, which is done by Solomon. The Millo is a fortress near Jerusalem.
1 Kings 18:43
The Buildings of Solomon
Solomon has built a lot. He strengthens cities and builds new ones. Everything he desires to build (1 Kings 9:1; 19), he builds. This building spirit goes further than just building the temple and his palace. These are buildings that are according to God’s will. The desire to build other buildings does not have to be wrong at first. It seems, however, that he has gone too far in his building-lust and that in the end it does not give him any peace (Ecclesiastes 2:4-11). It may be that we already have a warning here that his heart is no longer completely focused on the LORD. Thus we too can begin in the Spirit, but end in the flesh (Galatians 3:3).
His lust to build also means an enormous burden for the people who have to contribute to this in the form of taxes, under which they sigh (1 Kings 12:4). This will not happen when the Lord Jesus reigns in Zion, for He says: “My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:30).
What Pharaoh does (1 Kings 9:16), the Israelites should have done. Wherever Solomon builds, he encounters remaining Canaanites. The time of extermination is over; it should have happened under Joshua and in the time that followed. It can also be the same in the church. The time for action may be over and the only thing that sometimes remains is to bear the consequences.
But Solomon does make the enemies slaves of the Israelites. This does not apply to the children of God’s people. They are men of war to fight for the LORD, and servants to serve the LORD. The number and function of the chief officers is given.
1 Kings 9:24 points back to a previous event (1 Kings 3:1) and rectifies what happened there. With the departure of Pharaoh’s daughter from the city of David, there is room for the building of the Millo, which is done by Solomon. The Millo is a fortress near Jerusalem.
1 Kings 18:44
The Buildings of Solomon
Solomon has built a lot. He strengthens cities and builds new ones. Everything he desires to build (1 Kings 9:1; 19), he builds. This building spirit goes further than just building the temple and his palace. These are buildings that are according to God’s will. The desire to build other buildings does not have to be wrong at first. It seems, however, that he has gone too far in his building-lust and that in the end it does not give him any peace (Ecclesiastes 2:4-11). It may be that we already have a warning here that his heart is no longer completely focused on the LORD. Thus we too can begin in the Spirit, but end in the flesh (Galatians 3:3).
His lust to build also means an enormous burden for the people who have to contribute to this in the form of taxes, under which they sigh (1 Kings 12:4). This will not happen when the Lord Jesus reigns in Zion, for He says: “My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:30).
What Pharaoh does (1 Kings 9:16), the Israelites should have done. Wherever Solomon builds, he encounters remaining Canaanites. The time of extermination is over; it should have happened under Joshua and in the time that followed. It can also be the same in the church. The time for action may be over and the only thing that sometimes remains is to bear the consequences.
But Solomon does make the enemies slaves of the Israelites. This does not apply to the children of God’s people. They are men of war to fight for the LORD, and servants to serve the LORD. The number and function of the chief officers is given.
1 Kings 9:24 points back to a previous event (1 Kings 3:1) and rectifies what happened there. With the departure of Pharaoh’s daughter from the city of David, there is room for the building of the Millo, which is done by Solomon. The Millo is a fortress near Jerusalem.
1 Kings 18:45
The Buildings of Solomon
Solomon has built a lot. He strengthens cities and builds new ones. Everything he desires to build (1 Kings 9:1; 19), he builds. This building spirit goes further than just building the temple and his palace. These are buildings that are according to God’s will. The desire to build other buildings does not have to be wrong at first. It seems, however, that he has gone too far in his building-lust and that in the end it does not give him any peace (Ecclesiastes 2:4-11). It may be that we already have a warning here that his heart is no longer completely focused on the LORD. Thus we too can begin in the Spirit, but end in the flesh (Galatians 3:3).
His lust to build also means an enormous burden for the people who have to contribute to this in the form of taxes, under which they sigh (1 Kings 12:4). This will not happen when the Lord Jesus reigns in Zion, for He says: “My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:30).
What Pharaoh does (1 Kings 9:16), the Israelites should have done. Wherever Solomon builds, he encounters remaining Canaanites. The time of extermination is over; it should have happened under Joshua and in the time that followed. It can also be the same in the church. The time for action may be over and the only thing that sometimes remains is to bear the consequences.
But Solomon does make the enemies slaves of the Israelites. This does not apply to the children of God’s people. They are men of war to fight for the LORD, and servants to serve the LORD. The number and function of the chief officers is given.
1 Kings 9:24 points back to a previous event (1 Kings 3:1) and rectifies what happened there. With the departure of Pharaoh’s daughter from the city of David, there is room for the building of the Millo, which is done by Solomon. The Millo is a fortress near Jerusalem.
1 Kings 18:46
The Buildings of Solomon
Solomon has built a lot. He strengthens cities and builds new ones. Everything he desires to build (1 Kings 9:1; 19), he builds. This building spirit goes further than just building the temple and his palace. These are buildings that are according to God’s will. The desire to build other buildings does not have to be wrong at first. It seems, however, that he has gone too far in his building-lust and that in the end it does not give him any peace (Ecclesiastes 2:4-11). It may be that we already have a warning here that his heart is no longer completely focused on the LORD. Thus we too can begin in the Spirit, but end in the flesh (Galatians 3:3).
His lust to build also means an enormous burden for the people who have to contribute to this in the form of taxes, under which they sigh (1 Kings 12:4). This will not happen when the Lord Jesus reigns in Zion, for He says: “My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:30).
What Pharaoh does (1 Kings 9:16), the Israelites should have done. Wherever Solomon builds, he encounters remaining Canaanites. The time of extermination is over; it should have happened under Joshua and in the time that followed. It can also be the same in the church. The time for action may be over and the only thing that sometimes remains is to bear the consequences.
But Solomon does make the enemies slaves of the Israelites. This does not apply to the children of God’s people. They are men of war to fight for the LORD, and servants to serve the LORD. The number and function of the chief officers is given.
1 Kings 9:24 points back to a previous event (1 Kings 3:1) and rectifies what happened there. With the departure of Pharaoh’s daughter from the city of David, there is room for the building of the Millo, which is done by Solomon. The Millo is a fortress near Jerusalem.