1 Kings 9

1 Kings 9:1

Solomon Will Be King

From 1 Kings 1:28 it appears that Bathsheba left after Nathan’s arrival. When Nathan has spoken, she is called again. David addresses the word to her. He swears by the LORD, the God of Israel, because it is His counsel. He wants to execute this counsel. He seems to be aware of a new attack by the enemy, but also that the LORD will redeem him from it, as He has done so many times before (cf. 2 Samuel 4:9; Psalms 34:22). He solemnly declares that Solomon will sit on the throne in his place. He speaks about “your son Solomon”. Thus, three times it is spoken about Solomon as the son of Bathsheba (1 Kings 1:12; 17; 30).

Solomon is also the son of the people. One day the people will say: “A son will be given us” (Isaiah 9:6). The Bridegroom in Song of Songs speaks of the willing people (Darby Translation) by whom He is set on His royal chariot (Song of Solomon 6:12). The way is paved for Him by His people, as David was helped by the heroes in the acquisition of his kingship at the time (1 Chronicles 12:23). So through our faithfulness we can hasten the day of God (2 Peter 3:11-12).

1 Kings 9:2

Solomon Will Be King

From 1 Kings 1:28 it appears that Bathsheba left after Nathan’s arrival. When Nathan has spoken, she is called again. David addresses the word to her. He swears by the LORD, the God of Israel, because it is His counsel. He wants to execute this counsel. He seems to be aware of a new attack by the enemy, but also that the LORD will redeem him from it, as He has done so many times before (cf. 2 Samuel 4:9; Psalms 34:22). He solemnly declares that Solomon will sit on the throne in his place. He speaks about “your son Solomon”. Thus, three times it is spoken about Solomon as the son of Bathsheba (1 Kings 1:12; 17; 30).

Solomon is also the son of the people. One day the people will say: “A son will be given us” (Isaiah 9:6). The Bridegroom in Song of Songs speaks of the willing people (Darby Translation) by whom He is set on His royal chariot (Song of Solomon 6:12). The way is paved for Him by His people, as David was helped by the heroes in the acquisition of his kingship at the time (1 Chronicles 12:23). So through our faithfulness we can hasten the day of God (2 Peter 3:11-12).

1 Kings 9:3

Command to Make Solomon King

Here David speaks of “my son Solomon” (1 Kings 1:33), the son of David. David calls to him Zadok, Nathan and Benaiah. He gives Zadok and Nathan the order to anoint Solomon as king over Israel. They must make his kingship known by blowing the trumpet and saying “[long] live King Solomon!” See also “[long] live King Adonijah!” in 1 Kings 1:25 and “may my lord King David live forever” in 1 Kings 1:31.

It is about who is king in the practice of our life. Although the kingdom of God has not yet been openly established, we may already be in that kingdom (Romans 14:17-18; Colossians 1:13). The application of this chapter is whether the Lord Jesus is warmly given the place of dominion in our life. It is about giving Him the place in the practice of our life God has given Him, whether He is on the throne in our life, or whether we ourselves are on the throne of our life.

David orders Solomon to sit on “my throne”. The kingship of Solomon was disputed. Therefore there had to be this action in this way. The kingship of David and also that of Saul has never been disputed. Solomon must sit on the mule, the animal of peace (Zechariah 9:9). Riding the king’s mule is the sign that he who sits on it will take his place on his throne as his successor. David says that he has appointed him ruler over Israel and over Judah. He can say this because he is completely in accordance with God’s plan.

Benaiah agrees wholeheartedly. He wishes that the word of the king will be a word of the LORD, and that the LORD will be with Solomon, as he was with David. He even wishes Solomon to be greater than David. This is entirely in accordance with the desires of David. Thus the reign of the Lord Jesus will be many times greater than the way of humiliation He once went on earth.

1 Kings 9:4

Command to Make Solomon King

Here David speaks of “my son Solomon” (1 Kings 1:33), the son of David. David calls to him Zadok, Nathan and Benaiah. He gives Zadok and Nathan the order to anoint Solomon as king over Israel. They must make his kingship known by blowing the trumpet and saying “[long] live King Solomon!” See also “[long] live King Adonijah!” in 1 Kings 1:25 and “may my lord King David live forever” in 1 Kings 1:31.

It is about who is king in the practice of our life. Although the kingdom of God has not yet been openly established, we may already be in that kingdom (Romans 14:17-18; Colossians 1:13). The application of this chapter is whether the Lord Jesus is warmly given the place of dominion in our life. It is about giving Him the place in the practice of our life God has given Him, whether He is on the throne in our life, or whether we ourselves are on the throne of our life.

David orders Solomon to sit on “my throne”. The kingship of Solomon was disputed. Therefore there had to be this action in this way. The kingship of David and also that of Saul has never been disputed. Solomon must sit on the mule, the animal of peace (Zechariah 9:9). Riding the king’s mule is the sign that he who sits on it will take his place on his throne as his successor. David says that he has appointed him ruler over Israel and over Judah. He can say this because he is completely in accordance with God’s plan.

Benaiah agrees wholeheartedly. He wishes that the word of the king will be a word of the LORD, and that the LORD will be with Solomon, as he was with David. He even wishes Solomon to be greater than David. This is entirely in accordance with the desires of David. Thus the reign of the Lord Jesus will be many times greater than the way of humiliation He once went on earth.

1 Kings 9:5

Command to Make Solomon King

Here David speaks of “my son Solomon” (1 Kings 1:33), the son of David. David calls to him Zadok, Nathan and Benaiah. He gives Zadok and Nathan the order to anoint Solomon as king over Israel. They must make his kingship known by blowing the trumpet and saying “[long] live King Solomon!” See also “[long] live King Adonijah!” in 1 Kings 1:25 and “may my lord King David live forever” in 1 Kings 1:31.

It is about who is king in the practice of our life. Although the kingdom of God has not yet been openly established, we may already be in that kingdom (Romans 14:17-18; Colossians 1:13). The application of this chapter is whether the Lord Jesus is warmly given the place of dominion in our life. It is about giving Him the place in the practice of our life God has given Him, whether He is on the throne in our life, or whether we ourselves are on the throne of our life.

David orders Solomon to sit on “my throne”. The kingship of Solomon was disputed. Therefore there had to be this action in this way. The kingship of David and also that of Saul has never been disputed. Solomon must sit on the mule, the animal of peace (Zechariah 9:9). Riding the king’s mule is the sign that he who sits on it will take his place on his throne as his successor. David says that he has appointed him ruler over Israel and over Judah. He can say this because he is completely in accordance with God’s plan.

Benaiah agrees wholeheartedly. He wishes that the word of the king will be a word of the LORD, and that the LORD will be with Solomon, as he was with David. He even wishes Solomon to be greater than David. This is entirely in accordance with the desires of David. Thus the reign of the Lord Jesus will be many times greater than the way of humiliation He once went on earth.

1 Kings 9:6

Command to Make Solomon King

Here David speaks of “my son Solomon” (1 Kings 1:33), the son of David. David calls to him Zadok, Nathan and Benaiah. He gives Zadok and Nathan the order to anoint Solomon as king over Israel. They must make his kingship known by blowing the trumpet and saying “[long] live King Solomon!” See also “[long] live King Adonijah!” in 1 Kings 1:25 and “may my lord King David live forever” in 1 Kings 1:31.

It is about who is king in the practice of our life. Although the kingdom of God has not yet been openly established, we may already be in that kingdom (Romans 14:17-18; Colossians 1:13). The application of this chapter is whether the Lord Jesus is warmly given the place of dominion in our life. It is about giving Him the place in the practice of our life God has given Him, whether He is on the throne in our life, or whether we ourselves are on the throne of our life.

David orders Solomon to sit on “my throne”. The kingship of Solomon was disputed. Therefore there had to be this action in this way. The kingship of David and also that of Saul has never been disputed. Solomon must sit on the mule, the animal of peace (Zechariah 9:9). Riding the king’s mule is the sign that he who sits on it will take his place on his throne as his successor. David says that he has appointed him ruler over Israel and over Judah. He can say this because he is completely in accordance with God’s plan.

Benaiah agrees wholeheartedly. He wishes that the word of the king will be a word of the LORD, and that the LORD will be with Solomon, as he was with David. He even wishes Solomon to be greater than David. This is entirely in accordance with the desires of David. Thus the reign of the Lord Jesus will be many times greater than the way of humiliation He once went on earth.

1 Kings 9:7

Command to Make Solomon King

Here David speaks of “my son Solomon” (1 Kings 1:33), the son of David. David calls to him Zadok, Nathan and Benaiah. He gives Zadok and Nathan the order to anoint Solomon as king over Israel. They must make his kingship known by blowing the trumpet and saying “[long] live King Solomon!” See also “[long] live King Adonijah!” in 1 Kings 1:25 and “may my lord King David live forever” in 1 Kings 1:31.

It is about who is king in the practice of our life. Although the kingdom of God has not yet been openly established, we may already be in that kingdom (Romans 14:17-18; Colossians 1:13). The application of this chapter is whether the Lord Jesus is warmly given the place of dominion in our life. It is about giving Him the place in the practice of our life God has given Him, whether He is on the throne in our life, or whether we ourselves are on the throne of our life.

David orders Solomon to sit on “my throne”. The kingship of Solomon was disputed. Therefore there had to be this action in this way. The kingship of David and also that of Saul has never been disputed. Solomon must sit on the mule, the animal of peace (Zechariah 9:9). Riding the king’s mule is the sign that he who sits on it will take his place on his throne as his successor. David says that he has appointed him ruler over Israel and over Judah. He can say this because he is completely in accordance with God’s plan.

Benaiah agrees wholeheartedly. He wishes that the word of the king will be a word of the LORD, and that the LORD will be with Solomon, as he was with David. He even wishes Solomon to be greater than David. This is entirely in accordance with the desires of David. Thus the reign of the Lord Jesus will be many times greater than the way of humiliation He once went on earth.

1 Kings 9:8

Command to Make Solomon King

Here David speaks of “my son Solomon” (1 Kings 1:33), the son of David. David calls to him Zadok, Nathan and Benaiah. He gives Zadok and Nathan the order to anoint Solomon as king over Israel. They must make his kingship known by blowing the trumpet and saying “[long] live King Solomon!” See also “[long] live King Adonijah!” in 1 Kings 1:25 and “may my lord King David live forever” in 1 Kings 1:31.

It is about who is king in the practice of our life. Although the kingdom of God has not yet been openly established, we may already be in that kingdom (Romans 14:17-18; Colossians 1:13). The application of this chapter is whether the Lord Jesus is warmly given the place of dominion in our life. It is about giving Him the place in the practice of our life God has given Him, whether He is on the throne in our life, or whether we ourselves are on the throne of our life.

David orders Solomon to sit on “my throne”. The kingship of Solomon was disputed. Therefore there had to be this action in this way. The kingship of David and also that of Saul has never been disputed. Solomon must sit on the mule, the animal of peace (Zechariah 9:9). Riding the king’s mule is the sign that he who sits on it will take his place on his throne as his successor. David says that he has appointed him ruler over Israel and over Judah. He can say this because he is completely in accordance with God’s plan.

Benaiah agrees wholeheartedly. He wishes that the word of the king will be a word of the LORD, and that the LORD will be with Solomon, as he was with David. He even wishes Solomon to be greater than David. This is entirely in accordance with the desires of David. Thus the reign of the Lord Jesus will be many times greater than the way of humiliation He once went on earth.

1 Kings 9:9

Solomon Anointed King

The anointing of Solomon is done by Zadok, together with Nathan (1 Kings 1:45). For this purpose the horn of oil is used from the tent that David erected on Zion for the ark (2 Samuel 6:17). The tabernacle is still in Gibeon. The oil will have been the holy anointing oil, with which the priests and the objects of the tabernacle were anointed (Exodus 30:23-30). There has been shouting and cheering because of the anointing of Solomon.

1 Kings 9:10

Solomon Anointed King

The anointing of Solomon is done by Zadok, together with Nathan (1 Kings 1:45). For this purpose the horn of oil is used from the tent that David erected on Zion for the ark (2 Samuel 6:17). The tabernacle is still in Gibeon. The oil will have been the holy anointing oil, with which the priests and the objects of the tabernacle were anointed (Exodus 30:23-30). There has been shouting and cheering because of the anointing of Solomon.

1 Kings 9:11

Solomon Anointed King

The anointing of Solomon is done by Zadok, together with Nathan (1 Kings 1:45). For this purpose the horn of oil is used from the tent that David erected on Zion for the ark (2 Samuel 6:17). The tabernacle is still in Gibeon. The oil will have been the holy anointing oil, with which the priests and the objects of the tabernacle were anointed (Exodus 30:23-30). There has been shouting and cheering because of the anointing of Solomon.

1 Kings 9:12

Adonijah Is Informed

The whole event with Solomon takes place during the meal that Adonijah has caused to his own honor. The company is finished with the meal and is about to declare Adonijah king when Joab’s trained ear distinguishes the sound of the trumpet. While he makes a remark about this, Jonathan comes in. Adonijah is not yet aware of any evil. He even sees the arrival of Jonathan as a good omen.

Jonathan is still a messenger, as he was eight or nine years earlier (2 Samuel 15:27; 2 Samuel 17:17). He comes to Adonijah and his company with the message of the kingship of Solomon. He mentions how this was done. It seems that he does so enthusiastically, rather than with fright.

Jonathan testifies to David’s choice and what David has arranged to make Solomon king. The faithful have had Solomon sit on the mule of David. Nathan and Zadok anointed him and took him to the city with cheers. There Solomon has taken his seat on the royal throne. All the ministers of David have agreed. Like Benaiah, they have expressed the wish that God will make Solomon’s name greater than that of David and his throne more exalted than David’s throne. Finally, Jonathan also tells something we have not read before: that David has bowed down in worship on the bed (1 Kings 1:47; cf. Genesis 47:31b).

All acting with Solomon and Solomon taking his seat on the throne is entirely according to David’s thoughts. He praises God for what his eyes see. He resembles Simeon who also saw the LORD’s salvation with his eyes (Luke 2:29-30). Possibly David also says on this occasion what we read in 1 Chronicles 29 (1 Chronicles 29:10-19). As a matter of fact, it is a great satisfaction for God-fearing parents, when they fall asleep, to see that their children serve God and His people.

The triumph of the wicked is of short duration (Job 20:4-5). Jonathan’s message causes an enormous shock. Adonijah’s company is fleeing. This is the terror that will catch all when they are horrified to learn that God’s Anointed returns with power and majesty. This will happen at the moment when people celebrate the results they believe they have achieved in their striving to control everything to their own devices with the exclusion of God (Psalms 2:1-3; 1 Thessalonians 5:3).

1 Kings 9:13

Adonijah Is Informed

The whole event with Solomon takes place during the meal that Adonijah has caused to his own honor. The company is finished with the meal and is about to declare Adonijah king when Joab’s trained ear distinguishes the sound of the trumpet. While he makes a remark about this, Jonathan comes in. Adonijah is not yet aware of any evil. He even sees the arrival of Jonathan as a good omen.

Jonathan is still a messenger, as he was eight or nine years earlier (2 Samuel 15:27; 2 Samuel 17:17). He comes to Adonijah and his company with the message of the kingship of Solomon. He mentions how this was done. It seems that he does so enthusiastically, rather than with fright.

Jonathan testifies to David’s choice and what David has arranged to make Solomon king. The faithful have had Solomon sit on the mule of David. Nathan and Zadok anointed him and took him to the city with cheers. There Solomon has taken his seat on the royal throne. All the ministers of David have agreed. Like Benaiah, they have expressed the wish that God will make Solomon’s name greater than that of David and his throne more exalted than David’s throne. Finally, Jonathan also tells something we have not read before: that David has bowed down in worship on the bed (1 Kings 1:47; cf. Genesis 47:31b).

All acting with Solomon and Solomon taking his seat on the throne is entirely according to David’s thoughts. He praises God for what his eyes see. He resembles Simeon who also saw the LORD’s salvation with his eyes (Luke 2:29-30). Possibly David also says on this occasion what we read in 1 Chronicles 29 (1 Chronicles 29:10-19). As a matter of fact, it is a great satisfaction for God-fearing parents, when they fall asleep, to see that their children serve God and His people.

The triumph of the wicked is of short duration (Job 20:4-5). Jonathan’s message causes an enormous shock. Adonijah’s company is fleeing. This is the terror that will catch all when they are horrified to learn that God’s Anointed returns with power and majesty. This will happen at the moment when people celebrate the results they believe they have achieved in their striving to control everything to their own devices with the exclusion of God (Psalms 2:1-3; 1 Thessalonians 5:3).

1 Kings 9:14

Adonijah Is Informed

The whole event with Solomon takes place during the meal that Adonijah has caused to his own honor. The company is finished with the meal and is about to declare Adonijah king when Joab’s trained ear distinguishes the sound of the trumpet. While he makes a remark about this, Jonathan comes in. Adonijah is not yet aware of any evil. He even sees the arrival of Jonathan as a good omen.

Jonathan is still a messenger, as he was eight or nine years earlier (2 Samuel 15:27; 2 Samuel 17:17). He comes to Adonijah and his company with the message of the kingship of Solomon. He mentions how this was done. It seems that he does so enthusiastically, rather than with fright.

Jonathan testifies to David’s choice and what David has arranged to make Solomon king. The faithful have had Solomon sit on the mule of David. Nathan and Zadok anointed him and took him to the city with cheers. There Solomon has taken his seat on the royal throne. All the ministers of David have agreed. Like Benaiah, they have expressed the wish that God will make Solomon’s name greater than that of David and his throne more exalted than David’s throne. Finally, Jonathan also tells something we have not read before: that David has bowed down in worship on the bed (1 Kings 1:47; cf. Genesis 47:31b).

All acting with Solomon and Solomon taking his seat on the throne is entirely according to David’s thoughts. He praises God for what his eyes see. He resembles Simeon who also saw the LORD’s salvation with his eyes (Luke 2:29-30). Possibly David also says on this occasion what we read in 1 Chronicles 29 (1 Chronicles 29:10-19). As a matter of fact, it is a great satisfaction for God-fearing parents, when they fall asleep, to see that their children serve God and His people.

The triumph of the wicked is of short duration (Job 20:4-5). Jonathan’s message causes an enormous shock. Adonijah’s company is fleeing. This is the terror that will catch all when they are horrified to learn that God’s Anointed returns with power and majesty. This will happen at the moment when people celebrate the results they believe they have achieved in their striving to control everything to their own devices with the exclusion of God (Psalms 2:1-3; 1 Thessalonians 5:3).

1 Kings 9:15

Adonijah Is Informed

The whole event with Solomon takes place during the meal that Adonijah has caused to his own honor. The company is finished with the meal and is about to declare Adonijah king when Joab’s trained ear distinguishes the sound of the trumpet. While he makes a remark about this, Jonathan comes in. Adonijah is not yet aware of any evil. He even sees the arrival of Jonathan as a good omen.

Jonathan is still a messenger, as he was eight or nine years earlier (2 Samuel 15:27; 2 Samuel 17:17). He comes to Adonijah and his company with the message of the kingship of Solomon. He mentions how this was done. It seems that he does so enthusiastically, rather than with fright.

Jonathan testifies to David’s choice and what David has arranged to make Solomon king. The faithful have had Solomon sit on the mule of David. Nathan and Zadok anointed him and took him to the city with cheers. There Solomon has taken his seat on the royal throne. All the ministers of David have agreed. Like Benaiah, they have expressed the wish that God will make Solomon’s name greater than that of David and his throne more exalted than David’s throne. Finally, Jonathan also tells something we have not read before: that David has bowed down in worship on the bed (1 Kings 1:47; cf. Genesis 47:31b).

All acting with Solomon and Solomon taking his seat on the throne is entirely according to David’s thoughts. He praises God for what his eyes see. He resembles Simeon who also saw the LORD’s salvation with his eyes (Luke 2:29-30). Possibly David also says on this occasion what we read in 1 Chronicles 29 (1 Chronicles 29:10-19). As a matter of fact, it is a great satisfaction for God-fearing parents, when they fall asleep, to see that their children serve God and His people.

The triumph of the wicked is of short duration (Job 20:4-5). Jonathan’s message causes an enormous shock. Adonijah’s company is fleeing. This is the terror that will catch all when they are horrified to learn that God’s Anointed returns with power and majesty. This will happen at the moment when people celebrate the results they believe they have achieved in their striving to control everything to their own devices with the exclusion of God (Psalms 2:1-3; 1 Thessalonians 5:3).

1 Kings 9:16

Adonijah Is Informed

The whole event with Solomon takes place during the meal that Adonijah has caused to his own honor. The company is finished with the meal and is about to declare Adonijah king when Joab’s trained ear distinguishes the sound of the trumpet. While he makes a remark about this, Jonathan comes in. Adonijah is not yet aware of any evil. He even sees the arrival of Jonathan as a good omen.

Jonathan is still a messenger, as he was eight or nine years earlier (2 Samuel 15:27; 2 Samuel 17:17). He comes to Adonijah and his company with the message of the kingship of Solomon. He mentions how this was done. It seems that he does so enthusiastically, rather than with fright.

Jonathan testifies to David’s choice and what David has arranged to make Solomon king. The faithful have had Solomon sit on the mule of David. Nathan and Zadok anointed him and took him to the city with cheers. There Solomon has taken his seat on the royal throne. All the ministers of David have agreed. Like Benaiah, they have expressed the wish that God will make Solomon’s name greater than that of David and his throne more exalted than David’s throne. Finally, Jonathan also tells something we have not read before: that David has bowed down in worship on the bed (1 Kings 1:47; cf. Genesis 47:31b).

All acting with Solomon and Solomon taking his seat on the throne is entirely according to David’s thoughts. He praises God for what his eyes see. He resembles Simeon who also saw the LORD’s salvation with his eyes (Luke 2:29-30). Possibly David also says on this occasion what we read in 1 Chronicles 29 (1 Chronicles 29:10-19). As a matter of fact, it is a great satisfaction for God-fearing parents, when they fall asleep, to see that their children serve God and His people.

The triumph of the wicked is of short duration (Job 20:4-5). Jonathan’s message causes an enormous shock. Adonijah’s company is fleeing. This is the terror that will catch all when they are horrified to learn that God’s Anointed returns with power and majesty. This will happen at the moment when people celebrate the results they believe they have achieved in their striving to control everything to their own devices with the exclusion of God (Psalms 2:1-3; 1 Thessalonians 5:3).

1 Kings 9:17

Adonijah Is Informed

The whole event with Solomon takes place during the meal that Adonijah has caused to his own honor. The company is finished with the meal and is about to declare Adonijah king when Joab’s trained ear distinguishes the sound of the trumpet. While he makes a remark about this, Jonathan comes in. Adonijah is not yet aware of any evil. He even sees the arrival of Jonathan as a good omen.

Jonathan is still a messenger, as he was eight or nine years earlier (2 Samuel 15:27; 2 Samuel 17:17). He comes to Adonijah and his company with the message of the kingship of Solomon. He mentions how this was done. It seems that he does so enthusiastically, rather than with fright.

Jonathan testifies to David’s choice and what David has arranged to make Solomon king. The faithful have had Solomon sit on the mule of David. Nathan and Zadok anointed him and took him to the city with cheers. There Solomon has taken his seat on the royal throne. All the ministers of David have agreed. Like Benaiah, they have expressed the wish that God will make Solomon’s name greater than that of David and his throne more exalted than David’s throne. Finally, Jonathan also tells something we have not read before: that David has bowed down in worship on the bed (1 Kings 1:47; cf. Genesis 47:31b).

All acting with Solomon and Solomon taking his seat on the throne is entirely according to David’s thoughts. He praises God for what his eyes see. He resembles Simeon who also saw the LORD’s salvation with his eyes (Luke 2:29-30). Possibly David also says on this occasion what we read in 1 Chronicles 29 (1 Chronicles 29:10-19). As a matter of fact, it is a great satisfaction for God-fearing parents, when they fall asleep, to see that their children serve God and His people.

The triumph of the wicked is of short duration (Job 20:4-5). Jonathan’s message causes an enormous shock. Adonijah’s company is fleeing. This is the terror that will catch all when they are horrified to learn that God’s Anointed returns with power and majesty. This will happen at the moment when people celebrate the results they believe they have achieved in their striving to control everything to their own devices with the exclusion of God (Psalms 2:1-3; 1 Thessalonians 5:3).

1 Kings 9:18

Adonijah Is Informed

The whole event with Solomon takes place during the meal that Adonijah has caused to his own honor. The company is finished with the meal and is about to declare Adonijah king when Joab’s trained ear distinguishes the sound of the trumpet. While he makes a remark about this, Jonathan comes in. Adonijah is not yet aware of any evil. He even sees the arrival of Jonathan as a good omen.

Jonathan is still a messenger, as he was eight or nine years earlier (2 Samuel 15:27; 2 Samuel 17:17). He comes to Adonijah and his company with the message of the kingship of Solomon. He mentions how this was done. It seems that he does so enthusiastically, rather than with fright.

Jonathan testifies to David’s choice and what David has arranged to make Solomon king. The faithful have had Solomon sit on the mule of David. Nathan and Zadok anointed him and took him to the city with cheers. There Solomon has taken his seat on the royal throne. All the ministers of David have agreed. Like Benaiah, they have expressed the wish that God will make Solomon’s name greater than that of David and his throne more exalted than David’s throne. Finally, Jonathan also tells something we have not read before: that David has bowed down in worship on the bed (1 Kings 1:47; cf. Genesis 47:31b).

All acting with Solomon and Solomon taking his seat on the throne is entirely according to David’s thoughts. He praises God for what his eyes see. He resembles Simeon who also saw the LORD’s salvation with his eyes (Luke 2:29-30). Possibly David also says on this occasion what we read in 1 Chronicles 29 (1 Chronicles 29:10-19). As a matter of fact, it is a great satisfaction for God-fearing parents, when they fall asleep, to see that their children serve God and His people.

The triumph of the wicked is of short duration (Job 20:4-5). Jonathan’s message causes an enormous shock. Adonijah’s company is fleeing. This is the terror that will catch all when they are horrified to learn that God’s Anointed returns with power and majesty. This will happen at the moment when people celebrate the results they believe they have achieved in their striving to control everything to their own devices with the exclusion of God (Psalms 2:1-3; 1 Thessalonians 5:3).

1 Kings 9:19

Adonijah Is Informed

The whole event with Solomon takes place during the meal that Adonijah has caused to his own honor. The company is finished with the meal and is about to declare Adonijah king when Joab’s trained ear distinguishes the sound of the trumpet. While he makes a remark about this, Jonathan comes in. Adonijah is not yet aware of any evil. He even sees the arrival of Jonathan as a good omen.

Jonathan is still a messenger, as he was eight or nine years earlier (2 Samuel 15:27; 2 Samuel 17:17). He comes to Adonijah and his company with the message of the kingship of Solomon. He mentions how this was done. It seems that he does so enthusiastically, rather than with fright.

Jonathan testifies to David’s choice and what David has arranged to make Solomon king. The faithful have had Solomon sit on the mule of David. Nathan and Zadok anointed him and took him to the city with cheers. There Solomon has taken his seat on the royal throne. All the ministers of David have agreed. Like Benaiah, they have expressed the wish that God will make Solomon’s name greater than that of David and his throne more exalted than David’s throne. Finally, Jonathan also tells something we have not read before: that David has bowed down in worship on the bed (1 Kings 1:47; cf. Genesis 47:31b).

All acting with Solomon and Solomon taking his seat on the throne is entirely according to David’s thoughts. He praises God for what his eyes see. He resembles Simeon who also saw the LORD’s salvation with his eyes (Luke 2:29-30). Possibly David also says on this occasion what we read in 1 Chronicles 29 (1 Chronicles 29:10-19). As a matter of fact, it is a great satisfaction for God-fearing parents, when they fall asleep, to see that their children serve God and His people.

The triumph of the wicked is of short duration (Job 20:4-5). Jonathan’s message causes an enormous shock. Adonijah’s company is fleeing. This is the terror that will catch all when they are horrified to learn that God’s Anointed returns with power and majesty. This will happen at the moment when people celebrate the results they believe they have achieved in their striving to control everything to their own devices with the exclusion of God (Psalms 2:1-3; 1 Thessalonians 5:3).

1 Kings 9:20

Adonijah Is Informed

The whole event with Solomon takes place during the meal that Adonijah has caused to his own honor. The company is finished with the meal and is about to declare Adonijah king when Joab’s trained ear distinguishes the sound of the trumpet. While he makes a remark about this, Jonathan comes in. Adonijah is not yet aware of any evil. He even sees the arrival of Jonathan as a good omen.

Jonathan is still a messenger, as he was eight or nine years earlier (2 Samuel 15:27; 2 Samuel 17:17). He comes to Adonijah and his company with the message of the kingship of Solomon. He mentions how this was done. It seems that he does so enthusiastically, rather than with fright.

Jonathan testifies to David’s choice and what David has arranged to make Solomon king. The faithful have had Solomon sit on the mule of David. Nathan and Zadok anointed him and took him to the city with cheers. There Solomon has taken his seat on the royal throne. All the ministers of David have agreed. Like Benaiah, they have expressed the wish that God will make Solomon’s name greater than that of David and his throne more exalted than David’s throne. Finally, Jonathan also tells something we have not read before: that David has bowed down in worship on the bed (1 Kings 1:47; cf. Genesis 47:31b).

All acting with Solomon and Solomon taking his seat on the throne is entirely according to David’s thoughts. He praises God for what his eyes see. He resembles Simeon who also saw the LORD’s salvation with his eyes (Luke 2:29-30). Possibly David also says on this occasion what we read in 1 Chronicles 29 (1 Chronicles 29:10-19). As a matter of fact, it is a great satisfaction for God-fearing parents, when they fall asleep, to see that their children serve God and His people.

The triumph of the wicked is of short duration (Job 20:4-5). Jonathan’s message causes an enormous shock. Adonijah’s company is fleeing. This is the terror that will catch all when they are horrified to learn that God’s Anointed returns with power and majesty. This will happen at the moment when people celebrate the results they believe they have achieved in their striving to control everything to their own devices with the exclusion of God (Psalms 2:1-3; 1 Thessalonians 5:3).

1 Kings 9:21

Solomon Spares Adonijah

Adonijah and his company flee away. They don’t think about resisting. The guests of Adonijah go as fast and as far away as possible, away from Adonijah. What first seemed to be a guarantee of benefit has become a life-threatening place. Now to be found in the company of Adonijah equals suicide.

Adonijah himself flees to the altar. It is not mentioned where it is. There he seeks protection by seizing the horns of the altar (Exodus 21:13-14). The horns symbolize power and strength. Seizing the horns of the altar means seeking protection in a place of salvation and life. By seizing the horns, the criminal places himself under the saving and helping grace of God, Who extinguishes sin and thereby takes away punishment.

For the first time and four times in these verses, there is talk of “King Solomon”. Solomon, as king, judges Adonijah and has him brought to him. Adonijah acknowledges him forced as king. We voluntarily acknowledge the Lord Jesus as Lord.

Solomon not only gives him his life, but also his possessions. He is free to go to his house. Solomon also attaches a condition to it. Adonijah will stay alive as long as he does nothing that embarrasses the trust he gets. As soon as he does something wrong, he will be killed. In his first act in government, Solomon shows mercy and demands justice. So it will be when the Lord Jesus reigns (Psalms 101:8).

1 Kings 9:22

Solomon Spares Adonijah

Adonijah and his company flee away. They don’t think about resisting. The guests of Adonijah go as fast and as far away as possible, away from Adonijah. What first seemed to be a guarantee of benefit has become a life-threatening place. Now to be found in the company of Adonijah equals suicide.

Adonijah himself flees to the altar. It is not mentioned where it is. There he seeks protection by seizing the horns of the altar (Exodus 21:13-14). The horns symbolize power and strength. Seizing the horns of the altar means seeking protection in a place of salvation and life. By seizing the horns, the criminal places himself under the saving and helping grace of God, Who extinguishes sin and thereby takes away punishment.

For the first time and four times in these verses, there is talk of “King Solomon”. Solomon, as king, judges Adonijah and has him brought to him. Adonijah acknowledges him forced as king. We voluntarily acknowledge the Lord Jesus as Lord.

Solomon not only gives him his life, but also his possessions. He is free to go to his house. Solomon also attaches a condition to it. Adonijah will stay alive as long as he does nothing that embarrasses the trust he gets. As soon as he does something wrong, he will be killed. In his first act in government, Solomon shows mercy and demands justice. So it will be when the Lord Jesus reigns (Psalms 101:8).

1 Kings 9:23

Solomon Spares Adonijah

Adonijah and his company flee away. They don’t think about resisting. The guests of Adonijah go as fast and as far away as possible, away from Adonijah. What first seemed to be a guarantee of benefit has become a life-threatening place. Now to be found in the company of Adonijah equals suicide.

Adonijah himself flees to the altar. It is not mentioned where it is. There he seeks protection by seizing the horns of the altar (Exodus 21:13-14). The horns symbolize power and strength. Seizing the horns of the altar means seeking protection in a place of salvation and life. By seizing the horns, the criminal places himself under the saving and helping grace of God, Who extinguishes sin and thereby takes away punishment.

For the first time and four times in these verses, there is talk of “King Solomon”. Solomon, as king, judges Adonijah and has him brought to him. Adonijah acknowledges him forced as king. We voluntarily acknowledge the Lord Jesus as Lord.

Solomon not only gives him his life, but also his possessions. He is free to go to his house. Solomon also attaches a condition to it. Adonijah will stay alive as long as he does nothing that embarrasses the trust he gets. As soon as he does something wrong, he will be killed. In his first act in government, Solomon shows mercy and demands justice. So it will be when the Lord Jesus reigns (Psalms 101:8).

1 Kings 9:24

Solomon Spares Adonijah

Adonijah and his company flee away. They don’t think about resisting. The guests of Adonijah go as fast and as far away as possible, away from Adonijah. What first seemed to be a guarantee of benefit has become a life-threatening place. Now to be found in the company of Adonijah equals suicide.

Adonijah himself flees to the altar. It is not mentioned where it is. There he seeks protection by seizing the horns of the altar (Exodus 21:13-14). The horns symbolize power and strength. Seizing the horns of the altar means seeking protection in a place of salvation and life. By seizing the horns, the criminal places himself under the saving and helping grace of God, Who extinguishes sin and thereby takes away punishment.

For the first time and four times in these verses, there is talk of “King Solomon”. Solomon, as king, judges Adonijah and has him brought to him. Adonijah acknowledges him forced as king. We voluntarily acknowledge the Lord Jesus as Lord.

Solomon not only gives him his life, but also his possessions. He is free to go to his house. Solomon also attaches a condition to it. Adonijah will stay alive as long as he does nothing that embarrasses the trust he gets. As soon as he does something wrong, he will be killed. In his first act in government, Solomon shows mercy and demands justice. So it will be when the Lord Jesus reigns (Psalms 101:8).

1 Kings 9:26

David Encourages Solomon

David sees that the end of his life on earth is near. This is the moment to command his son Solomon some things. In his introductory words he speaks the word that Joshua also spoke (Joshua 23:14) and which applies to all people, except to the believers who belong to the church. Believers who belong to the church do not expect to go “the way of all the earth”, but expect the coming of the Lord Jesus to take them to Himself in the air (1 Thessalonians 4:15-18).

David also speaks to Solomon the encouraging words which Moses and the LORD once spoke to Joshua (Deuteronomy 31:23; Joshua 1:9). Farewells of believers like Moses and David contain encouragements for the next generation (cf. 2 Timothy 2:1). Just as David refers his son Solomon to what is “written in the Law of Moses” (1 Kings 2:3), so must the Word of God be the norm for us in maintaining God’s rights. If we keep to this, He will make His Word true to us. This also applies to our children, both physically and spiritually.

Being strong and showing himself a man, Solomon can do by keeping the charge of the LORD. This he must show by walking in His ways, which means “to keep His statutes, His commandments, His ordinances, and His testimonies”. These four words indicate the different purposes of the law and serve to make the rich and multiple contents of the law more individual. Adherence to this is the condition for wisdom and prosperity (Deuteronomy 29:9).

The blessings in both books of the Kings are always made dependent on obedience, which is indicated by the word “if”. That not a man will lack who will sit on the throne does not mean that there will always be someone who will be sitting on David’s throne. It means that David’s offspring will not be permanently eradicated, and there never will be someone to sit on the throne again. The final fulfillment will take place in Christ.

1 Kings 9:27

David Encourages Solomon

David sees that the end of his life on earth is near. This is the moment to command his son Solomon some things. In his introductory words he speaks the word that Joshua also spoke (Joshua 23:14) and which applies to all people, except to the believers who belong to the church. Believers who belong to the church do not expect to go “the way of all the earth”, but expect the coming of the Lord Jesus to take them to Himself in the air (1 Thessalonians 4:15-18).

David also speaks to Solomon the encouraging words which Moses and the LORD once spoke to Joshua (Deuteronomy 31:23; Joshua 1:9). Farewells of believers like Moses and David contain encouragements for the next generation (cf. 2 Timothy 2:1). Just as David refers his son Solomon to what is “written in the Law of Moses” (1 Kings 2:3), so must the Word of God be the norm for us in maintaining God’s rights. If we keep to this, He will make His Word true to us. This also applies to our children, both physically and spiritually.

Being strong and showing himself a man, Solomon can do by keeping the charge of the LORD. This he must show by walking in His ways, which means “to keep His statutes, His commandments, His ordinances, and His testimonies”. These four words indicate the different purposes of the law and serve to make the rich and multiple contents of the law more individual. Adherence to this is the condition for wisdom and prosperity (Deuteronomy 29:9).

The blessings in both books of the Kings are always made dependent on obedience, which is indicated by the word “if”. That not a man will lack who will sit on the throne does not mean that there will always be someone who will be sitting on David’s throne. It means that David’s offspring will not be permanently eradicated, and there never will be someone to sit on the throne again. The final fulfillment will take place in Christ.

1 Kings 9:28

David Encourages Solomon

David sees that the end of his life on earth is near. This is the moment to command his son Solomon some things. In his introductory words he speaks the word that Joshua also spoke (Joshua 23:14) and which applies to all people, except to the believers who belong to the church. Believers who belong to the church do not expect to go “the way of all the earth”, but expect the coming of the Lord Jesus to take them to Himself in the air (1 Thessalonians 4:15-18).

David also speaks to Solomon the encouraging words which Moses and the LORD once spoke to Joshua (Deuteronomy 31:23; Joshua 1:9). Farewells of believers like Moses and David contain encouragements for the next generation (cf. 2 Timothy 2:1). Just as David refers his son Solomon to what is “written in the Law of Moses” (1 Kings 2:3), so must the Word of God be the norm for us in maintaining God’s rights. If we keep to this, He will make His Word true to us. This also applies to our children, both physically and spiritually.

Being strong and showing himself a man, Solomon can do by keeping the charge of the LORD. This he must show by walking in His ways, which means “to keep His statutes, His commandments, His ordinances, and His testimonies”. These four words indicate the different purposes of the law and serve to make the rich and multiple contents of the law more individual. Adherence to this is the condition for wisdom and prosperity (Deuteronomy 29:9).

The blessings in both books of the Kings are always made dependent on obedience, which is indicated by the word “if”. That not a man will lack who will sit on the throne does not mean that there will always be someone who will be sitting on David’s throne. It means that David’s offspring will not be permanently eradicated, and there never will be someone to sit on the throne again. The final fulfillment will take place in Christ.