Chapter Summary

David's charge to Solomon, David's death. Execution of Adonijah. Abiathar removed. Execution of Shimei.

Discussion Questions for 1 Kings, Chapter 2

1. What kind of strength is David talking about in verse 2? How might we explain what is going on in this verse in light of anxieties about toxic masculinity today?
2. What about the commands in verses 2-3 would make someone strong? How is this similar to or different from how our culture usually views strength?
3. How does the parenting we see in this chapter relate to the parenting seen in chapter 1? What lesson does this comparison have for parents today?
4. What would it look like for parents to have the same goals as David in verses 2-3? What are some specific steps and practices that could contribute to this goal?
5. Is verse 3 an absolute promise that things will go well for those who are obedient? Explain why or why not. In your own life, has this generally been the case? Explain why or why not.
6. Do you think David is justified in what he says in verses 5-9, or is he holding on to a vengeful grudge? Give support for either answer.
7. How do verses 13-25 show us the cunning and deceit of human nature? Have you experienced this in your own life or in the life of those you know? Explain.
8. What does verse 26 show us about respect for God's ark and his priests? How can we apply this same respect to God today?
9. Compare verse 27 to 1 Samuel 2:27-36. How do the passages relate? Why is it important for 1 Kings 2 to point this out? How does this show us God's faithfulness and trustworthiness?
10. What is the cause of the throne being established in verse 46? How do we see God's providence in this? How does this push us to have trust in him?

Key Words/Phrase

Punishment, vv. 5, 8.

Characters

God, David, Solomon, Bath-sheba, Adonijah, Abishag, Joab, Abiatha, Benaiah, Shimei.

Strong Verse(s)

2, 3.