Pastor Marshall Ochs | June 30, 2024
In this message, Pastor Marshall teach from 1 Kings 1. This chapter opens with a striking look at Israel under an aging King David. David has suffered the consequences for his poor decisions with Bathsheba and the entire nation has felt the impact. Solomon has been declared the next king of Israel, but Solomon’s brother wants the throne. Competition erupts and David must declare which boy will become king. The entire chapter is filled with rich application for our life; the most prominent is how our decisions shape us.
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1 Kings 1:1-4
The once mighty warrior David is now an old and frail man, relying on his servants to care for him. They chose to find a beautiful young woman, Abishag, to keep him warm—with no sexual relations involved. David's love for women and his sin with Bathsheba had long-lasting repercussions: the death of his son, turmoil with Absalom, and the future sins of Solomon.
Reflection: The opening of Kings warns us of the long-term impacts of our decisions. Our good and bad choices shape our lives and influence those around us, especially our children. As parents and leaders, we must walk in obedience to God, knowing that disobedience brings consequences and obedience leads to eternal blessings. Consider how you are living and what kind of impact it has on those inside your influence, especially your children.
1 Kings 1:5-10
In contrast to David's frailty, we see the ambitious and handsome Adonijah declaring himself king. Despite David proclaiming Solomon his successor, Adonijah attempts to seize the throne. He throws a grand feast, inviting key military and religious leaders, notably excluding Solomon.
Reflection: Adonijah's actions highlight the dangers of unchecked ambition and weak parenting. David's lack of discipline and failure to set boundaries for his children led to Adonijah's sense of entitlement and rebellion. As parents and mentors, we must guide and correct our children lovingly, setting them on a path of righteousness. Reflect on how you are instilling godly values and discipline in those under your care.
1 Kings 1:11-27
Seeing the unfolding events, Nathan the prophet devises a plan to ensure Solomon's rightful place on the throne. He instructs Bathsheba to plea to David, followed by his own support as a second witness. Nathan is very much aware of David's affection for Bathsheba and her influence over him.
Reflection: Surrounding ourselves with wise, God-fearing people is essential. Nathan's intervention reminds us of the importance of having mentors and friends who will speak truth into our lives and help us stay on the narrow path. Do you have a Nathan in your life who provides godly counsel and encouragement?
1 Kings 1:28-40
Despite his failings as a father, David demonstrates his ability to govern by organizing Solomon's anointing. He orders a public ceremony with priests, prophets, and military leaders, establishing Solomon as king.
Reflection: Leadership requires decisive action and sometimes a public acknowledgment of God's will. David's actions illustrate the need to follow through on God's will, even when we have made mistakes. Do you find it easier to govern and lead outside your family than lead your children well? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal how you can lead your children, set proper boundaries, and demonstrate the love of Christ to them.
1 Kings 1:41-53
The noise from Solomon's anointing reaches Adonijah's feast, signaling that the people support Solomon. Solomon, showing mercy, offers Adonijah a chance to live peacefully if he proves himself worthy.
Reflection: Solomon's mercy towards Adonijah mirrors God's grace towards us. Though we deserve punishment for our sins, God offers us a chance to repent and walk in obedience. Our choices have eternal consequences, and we must choose to follow God faithfully. Reflect on how you can extend grace and seek forgiveness in your own relationships.
As we reflect on the opening chapter of 1 Kings, we see the profound impact of obedience and disobedience. Under the old covenant, blessings, and curses were direct consequences of adherence to God's law. Under the new covenant, while our salvation is secured by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, our obedience still reflects our love for Him (John 14:15).
May we choose to walk in obedience, remembering that our choices matter. Consider how God is working in your life through both your obedience and your disobedience. Trust in His grace, seek His wisdom, and surround yourself with godly counsel. As you meditate on these passages this week, ask God to reveal areas where you need to align your choices with His will and strengthen you in your walk with Christ.