Adonijah

Adonijah, a name that means "my Lord is Yahweh," appears in the Bible primarily in the context of the narrative surrounding King David's succession. He was the fourth son of David and Haggith, and he attempted to claim the throne of Israel after David's death. This is notably detailed in 1 Kings 1, where Adonijah, believing himself to be the rightful heir, organized a feast and proclaimed himself king without David's endorsement. His actions highlighted the tensions and rivalries within David's family regarding the succession, as his brother Solomon was designated by David to be king.The account of Adonijah serves as a cautionary tale about ambition and the consequences of not respecting God’s chosen order. After Solomon ascended to the throne, Adonijah sought refuge by clinging to the horns of the altar, a plea for mercy that indicates both desperation and recognition of the severity of his actions (1 Kings 1:50-53). Ultimately, Solomon granted him mercy but warned him that he would be safe only if he proved himself a worthy man (1 Kings 2:1-25). This narrative emphasizes the themes of divine sovereignty and the fulfillment of God’s promises regarding leadership and authority in Israel.

Adonijah1

Joab, Abiathar, and Adonijah

By Carter Conlon

44655:42

1KI 1:1

In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the theme of wickedness and self-promotion. He begins by describing the actions of those who engage in evil deeds, using the metaphor of wetting their tongues like swords and shooting bitter words. These individuals shoot at the righteous in secret, encouraged by their own evil thoughts. The preacher then shifts to discussing the story of Joab, a Biathar, and Adonijah, highlighting their self-promotion and the danger of following such leaders. He emphasizes the importance of repentance, holiness, and the old-fashioned way of the cross as the path to eternal life.