1 Kings - Chapter-4

Chapter Summary

Princes and commissaries of Israel. Solomon's reign and wisdom.

What other passages do you know that describe Israel like verse 20? How does this verse relate to promises made to Abraham?
Why might the author differentiate between Judah and Israel in verse 20? What in earlier or later history might make the author see them as separate?
In what ways do we see God's blessing in verse 20? Are these normally the kinds of blessings that we see as coming from God? Why or why not?
How might we use verse 20 to show that God is a God of joy?
How might you use verse 20 to explain to a nonbeliever that Christianity is about more than just rules?
Why do you think this chapter is in the Bible? How might you explain it to someone who is new to Scripture?
What sin of Solomon's do we see in verse 6? How does this affect the way we read the Solomon story generally?
How does the government system we see in this chapter compare with the system of Israel when they wandered in the wilderness? What do we learn from comparing and contrasting?
Compare verse 21 with Psalm 72:8. What is the difference in these passages between Solomon and the Messiah? How is this relevant for followers of Christ today?
The food in verse 7 is likely coming from taxes. Look at 1 Samuel 8:17. What do we learn about the Israelite king from comparing these passages? How do we see God fulfilling his prophecy and how is this relevant for us today?