Chapter 287 of 1163

1 KINGS 2

The king died. Death is an appointment we all must keep (Heb. 9:27), unless the Lord comes to take us home (1 Cor. 15:51ff.). Before he died, David gave Solomon wise counsel about the men who were a threat to the throne. It is good to know where the enemy is hiding. David had served his generation well (Acts 13:36).

The usurper died. Adonijah still wanted the throne and almost tricked Bathsheba into helping him. Since Abishag was one of David’s concubines, claiming her would be the same as claiming the throne. Adonijah had planned a wedding, but he ended up at a funeral.

The murderer died. Abiathar and Joab were both traitors, but Abiathar was spared because he was a priest. However, the exile removed the descendants of Eli from office as had been predicted years before (1 Sam. 2:30–35). Joab paid for murdering three men and also for his treachery to David. Benaiah was a priest (1 Chron. 27:5), but he was one of David’s mighty men and Joab’s successor as head of the army.

The accuser died. (See 2 Sam. 16:5–14; 19:18–23.) Had Shimei obeyed orders, he would have lived, but he defied the king and lost his life.

How true is the declaration: “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne” (Ps. 97:2).

↑ Back to top