Old Testament · History
1 Kings
Written by Court historians of Israel and Judah. Written for The kingdoms after David.
Big picture in three sentences
First Kings opens with Solomon asking God for a listening heart.
The temple is built, then the kingdom splits because later kings chase other gods.
Elijah stands alone on Mount Carmel and learns that God is not only in the fire.
Solomon asked for wisdom instead of a long life or victory.
Key verse · 1 Kings 3:9
“Give your servant therefore an understanding heart to judge your people, that I may discern between good and evil; for who is able to judge this great people of yours?””
Stories families know from this book
- Solomon's wish
- The temple
- The kingdom divides
- Elijah on Carmel