1 Kings - Chapter-9

Chapter Summary

Jehovah appears to Solomon. Covenant made. Solomon's fate.

Have you ever experienced a clear answer to prayer like in verses 1-3? Describe the experience.
Why is obedience important in verses 4-5? What is God teaching in these verses and what is the lesson for us today?
What parts of the Bible tell the fulfillment of verses 6-8? Can we think of other events in the world's history that share similarities? What are they?
Why do you think the author included verses 10-14 in this chapter? What are they communicating about the character of Solomon and what lesson do you think they were giving the reader?
Can you think of some periods of history where verses 15-22 could have been misapplied? How might we explain the issue of slavery in this chapter to someone who sees the chapter as an obstacle to faith?
David is seen as an example for Solomon. Who in your own life has provided an example of moral uprightness? Explain why.
What are some negative and positive elements of David's story? How do these verses help us understand his life generally? What lesson does this have for us?
Do you find verses 6-9 troubling? Why or why not? How might you respond to someone who says God is unjust in doing this?
Are there examples of God's justice in your own life or in the lives of people you know? What are they and how do they relate to this passage?
Why do you think God would allow the forced labor in this chapter? Do you think the author portrays the forced labor positively or negatively?

Covenant, v. 4.

God, Solomon, Hiram.

9, 25.