11 - 1 Kings
TLDR: Solomon's reign, the temple, wisdom and splendor — then his fall and the kingdom split into Israel (north) and Judah (south). The rest of 1 Kings follows the two kingdoms and the prophets Elijah and the word of the LORD.
Overarching Storyline
Solomon's succession and wisdom (ch. 1–4). Temple built and dedicated (ch. 5–8). Queen of Sheba, Solomon's glory and sin (ch. 9–11). Division: Jeroboam and Rehoboam (ch. 12). Kings of Israel and Judah (ch. 13–16). Elijah: drought, Carmel, still small voice (ch. 17–19). Ahab, Naboth, more kings (ch. 20–22).
Bible Project: 1 Kings overview.
Pegs for Memorizing This Book
- Person: Solomon, Elijah, Ahab, Jezebel.
- Image: Temple, two golden calves, fire on Carmel, still small voice.
- Number: 7 (years building temple), 12 (tribes split).
- Phrase: "Still small voice" (19:12 KJV); "How the mighty have fallen."
Highlights
- 1 Kings 3:9 — Solomon asks for a discerning heart.
- 1 Kings 8 — Dedication of the temple.
- 1 Kings 18 — Elijah on Carmel: the LORD is God.
- 1 Kings 19:12 — Still small voice.
(Link to verse entries and meditations as added.)
Before and After
- Before: 2 Samuel ends with David; 1 Kings begins with Solomon and the temple.
- After: 2 Kings continues the two kingdoms to exile; 1 Kings establishes the split and the ministry of Elijah.
Place in the Overarching Biblical Story
Temple and division. God dwells in the temple, but the kingdom splits because of sin. Elijah points to the prophetic voice and the need for repentance; Malachi 4:5 promises Elijah before the great day.
Interesting Facts
- James 5:17 — Elijah prayed and it did not rain.
- Matthew 17 — Elijah with Moses and Jesus on the mount of transfiguration.