The book of 1st Kings, a detailed account of the history of the kings of Israel and Judah, is not just a collection of facts. It spans the period from the reign of the second King, David, to the times of Ahab and Jehoshaphat, covering a significant period of approximately 118 to 125 years. This historical context is not just crucial, it's a bridge that connects us to the biblical narrative, giving us a deeper understanding and a sense of belonging.
After the monarchy was established, the United Kingdom endured for 120 years before it began to break apart. This period is significant as it marks the peak of Israel's political unity under the rule of Saul, David, and Solomon. Saul, the first king, reigned for 40 years, followed by David, and then Solomon. These three kings, each reigning for 40 years, played crucial roles in shaping the nation's history. However, it is disheartening to note that two of them failed miserably, ultimately leading to the kingdom's eventual division.
The message of the book is a testament to the enduring character of Jehovah, the sovereign ruler of Israel. It underscores that He blesses obedience, punishes disobedience, and forgives those who repent. This timeless lesson is for us all to learn, as it reveals the unchanging character of God. It's a reminder that we can know God personally through His Son, Jesus Christ.
God is now communicating with human beings through the written word: 'So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ,' Rom. 10, 17 LSB. Initially, he brought his message to the world through his people, Israel. However, Israel rejected Jesus as the Messiah. So the message has now been given to the Church, which is not just a religious institution, but the body of Christ, composed of all believers. It is excellent to understand and remember that God still blesses obedience. Still, it is also wise to remember that He punishes disobedience. Thankfully, there is a great blessing for those who repent.
One of the notable events within this book is the first recorded instance of using the horns of sacrificial altar (in the temple) as a place of refuge. There are two times when the altar is used as a place of safety, 1:50 & 2:28. This reminds me that there is a place of mercy for those who are guilty (all of us). Today it is not found in the Jewish temple but 'by faith' in the Son of God, Jesus. The Lord Jesus said - 'Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest,' Matt .11:28 LSB. There is another verse that helps in this respect - 'He himself is the sacrifice that atones for our sins—and not only our sins but the sins of all the world,' 1 John 2:2 NLT.
It is crucial to note that the historical books in the Bible are not just records of the past, but they are written to teach us profound lessons about the character of God, the consequences of sin, and the possibility of reconciliation and repentance. Understanding and accepting these lessons can lead to significant spiritual growth and a deeper connection with God.
I trust that, as you read this blog post today, you will come to know the blessing of God's reconciling grace. This grace, demonstrated through the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, is the means by which God welcomes those who repent and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ into his family. It is a profound expression of God's love and mercy, offering us the opportunity for forgiveness and a restored relationship with Him. This grace is not something we can earn or deserve, but it is freely given to us by God because of His great love for us.
The following Bible passage was written to Christians but it explains the message of salvation - Ephesians 2:1-10
'And you were dead in your trespasses and sins in which you previously walked according to the ways of this world, according to the ruler who exercises authority over the lower heavens, the spirit now working in the disobedient. We too all previously lived among them in our fleshly desires, carrying out the inclinations of our flesh and thoughts, and we were by nature children under wrath as the others were also. But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love that He had for us, made us alive with the Messiah even though we were dead in trespasses. You are saved by grace! Together with Christ Jesus He also raised us up and seated us in the heavens, so that in the coming ages He might display the immeasurable riches of His grace through His kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For you are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift — not from works, so that no one can boast. For we are His creation, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time so that we should walk in them'.
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