1 Kings: Walk Before Me FaithfullySample

The first thing Solomon does as king is to wield the sword. His actions against Adonijah, Abiathar, Joab and Shimei follow the questionable final command of his dying father, David, in verses 5–9. 

Did Solomon need to act this way? The way leaders treat their opponents often says a lot about their character and desire for power. There is strength of character when opponents are still welcomed and treated with mercy – not least in church life. 

In chapter 1, Adonijah sought to pronounce himself king. Now he asks for David’s concubine. This is far from a ‘small request’ (v. 20). Adonijah has not given up his ambitions to be king as the harem of a king belongs to the king’s successor. Adonijah thus represents a real threat to Solomon. His acknowledgement of the Lord’s doing in verse 15 appear disingenuous. Solomon puts him to death. 

Next Abiathar, the priest, who is descended from Eli, is exiled to his home town (vv. 26–27). This confirms an old prophecy about the house of Eli from 1 Samuel 2 – 3. 

In verses 28–35, Joab is not shown such leniency and is killed by Benaiah under Solomon’s orders. While Solomon carries out his father’s questionable command to kill Joab, he also shows a tendency to be above the law for Joab is killed in the temple courtyard. This was forbidden under the law as that area was a place of refuge. The whole act appears unnecessary and vengeful. 

It is not unknown for leaders to act above the law, or above the due processes and protocols of their institution. Have you seen that in churches, and what has been the result? Have you been tempted to bend the law or act above it at times? 

Despite some leniency, Solomon’s first actions as king are to wield the sword. Is he trusting God, or taking matters into his own hands? Is it both? We often act with mixed and hidden motives. None of us is simply good or simply bad.

Reflection

When have we been merciless or vengeful?