Have you ever wondered what the Old Testament historical book Kings is for? It’s a dramatic account of ancient Israel’s kings and prophets, tracing Israel’s descent from superpower to servitude in Babylon.
The drama is thick. Overwhelmed by his role, Solomon asked God (i.e., the Creator of the Universe) for wisdom and led Israel into a golden age. God warned Solomon that if he obeyed His Word, God would establish his royal line forever. But if he forsook God and went after idols, Israel and the temple would be destroyed. (1 Kings 9:4-9)
Solomon started well, but his heart split between God and idols. As a result, his kingdom split in two, and future kings led the people into idolatry and injustice. But because of Solomon’s father, King David, God promised hope: that David’s kingly line would not be destroyed.
As the kings led their people away from God, God spoke to them through prophets such as Elijah.
Tim Chester’s short commentary, 1 Kings For You, helpfully highlights the text’s theme and meaning: “the power of God’s Word” (144). In an age that rejected God and His Word, Elijah called the rulers and people back to God, sometimes in shocking ways.
Elijah’s ministry shows that God’s Word brings judgment to those who reject it and hope to those who seek God. The lessons for our day are vast and significant: Will we read the Bible, take God’s words seriously, and find real hope and happiness? Or will we reject it and seek our own way?
Elijah’s life and struggles also provide lessons. He experienced fear, doubt, and depression. He experienced mountaintop successes and deep lows, to the point of despair. But he remained faithful to God’s Word, and God used him in his generation.
Most importantly, Tim Chester’s commentary helps us see the connection between the Old and the New Testaments: David’s line culminating in Jesus of Nazareth, who obeyed God’s Word, died for His people, and rose again, so that all who follow Him will receive the hope and blessing God’s Word promises.
Lastly, 1 Kings For You is a light commentary appropriate for middle and high school students interested in studying the Bible. It helps readers understand the meaning and consider how to apply it to their lives.
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