1 Kings 2:1-46

Final words are often the most important words.  David knows that his life is almost over, but before he dies he wants to make sure to leave Solomon with some final words of instruction.  It seems like as people approach the end of their lives that they are given a real clarity to know what is important.  They have learned from their mistakes and they have an ability to look at life from an eternal perspective as opposed to a temporal one.  David calls Solomon to listen to his instructions.  We will do well if we are faithful to instruct the generation that follows us as well as listen to the generation that precedes us.

DAVID CHALLENGES SOLOMON TO BE FAITHFUL: David knows that being faithful to the Lord and the Law is really the key to a life well lived.  David has many regrets for this failures but he also has many victories for which to be thankful.  He comes to the end of his life and finishes well by instructing his son to be a godly man.  David also reminds Solomon of some unfinished business that he should take care of.  Several people had caused great harm to David and his reign while others had been loyal and faithful to him.  David challenges Solomon to make these things right.  Too often young men do not take the time to listen to the wisdom of those who have gone before them.  This is a tragic mistake that we must avoid.  Unfortunately, many old men become bitter and resentful and simply do not pass on what they have learned to those who come behind them.  We must learn to challenge one another to be faithful followers of the Word of God.

SOLOMON CHARGES SEVERAL MEN WITH TREASON: There are several men who have committed acts of treason that to this point had gone unpunished.  Adonijah, Solomon’s older brother who tried to become king without his father’s approval.  Abiathar, the priest had supported Adonijah in his attempt to take Solomon’s position.  Joab, David’s general had also been supportive of Adonijah behind David’s back besides the fact that he had murdered in cold blood Abner, Amasa and David’s son Absalom.  Sheimei had cursed David when he was fleeing from Absalom and although he repented and David spared his life; Solomon was still charged with dealing with him properly.  Solomon brings all of these men to justice in a unique manner that was fitting with the crimes that they had committed.  Solomon didn’t just go out and have them all killed, but was discerning in the way he brought about justice.  Adonijah and Joab were killed.  Abiathar was banished.  Sheimiei was put under house arrest until he broke the agreement and was subsequently killed.  It is often important to deal with the past as we move forward in the present so that we do not ruin our future.

SOLOMON CHANGES THOSE WHO ARE IN LEADERSHIP: Solomon starts out his reign by making major changes in the leadership that was around him.  He has a new commander for the army and a new priest for the temple.  These are key positions of leadership that Solomon does not want to have corrupt people occupying.  New leaders are often faced with this type of a challenge as they assume their roles.  Much wisdom is required in this task but it is also important to have the courage to make the changes that are necessary.