by Gary Kneezel

The people of Israel seemed to have a reasonable request for Rehoboam – a request that might appeal to those who recall the American colonies’ revolution in 1776 against England. They felt oppressed by the heavy burden of taxation and forced labor that King Solomon had imposed on them.

by Gary Kneezel

Good start. Mediocre ending. Solomon had built the temple. He had asked for and received great wisdom from God for ruling his people. His reign was characterized by peace and prosperity. Yet because he had worshiped other gods, the Lord had told Solomon in verses 9-13 that the kingdom would be torn from his son—except for one tribe.

by Gary Kneezel

Kings may influence history, but God controls history. As we saw in the first part of chapter 11, Solomon’s heart had turned away from God. God promised to let Solomon continue to reign, but He would tear most of the kingdom away from Solomon’s son.

by Gary Kneezel

Hey, wait a minute! Doesn’t John 3:16 say that God loved the world so much that He gave His one and only Son so that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life? If God loves the world, shouldn’t I love the world? Well, yes and no.

by Gary Kneezel

Power, wealth, fame, intellect. King Solomon had it all. People came to Solomon from all over the civilized world to hear his wisdom, have their questions answered and bring gifts. His kingdom was so prosperous that silver was commonplace.