1 Kings records the transition of Israel’s monarchy from David to Solomon and the eventual division of the kingdom. The book highlights the blessings of obedience, the dangers of idolatry, and the consequences of turning away from God. Through kings, prophets, and political turmoil, 1 Kings reveals God’s faithfulness to His word and His judgment on unfaithfulness.
Background
Author: Traditionally attributed to Jeremiah or an anonymous compiler
Audience: Israel, particularly those living during or after the exile
Date: Compiled between 560–540 BC
Location Written: Likely Babylon
Context: 1 Kings begins with Solomon’s rise to the throne, his wisdom, and the construction of the temple. But after Solomon’s later disobedience, the kingdom divides into Israel (north) and Judah (south). The book then follows the reigns of various kings in both nations. Prophets like Elijah emerge to call God’s people back to obedience, demonstrating God’s power and patience even as the nation drifts into idolatry.
Characters
- Solomon — wise king who built the temple but later fell into idolatry
- Rehoboam — Solomon’s son whose harsh leadership sparked the kingdom’s division
- Jeroboam — first king of the northern kingdom who led Israel into idolatry
- Elijah — prophet who confronted idolatry and demonstrated God’s power
- Ahab — wicked king of Israel influenced by his wife Jezebel
- Jezebel — queen who promoted Baal worship and persecuted God’s prophets
- Asa and Jehoshaphat — kings of Judah committed to reform and faithfulness
- God — ruler orchestrating judgment, mercy, and prophetic intervention
Major Events
- Solomon becomes king and asks God for wisdom (Chapters 1–3)
- Solomon builds and dedicates the temple (Chapters 5–8)
- Solomon’s wealth, fame, and eventual spiritual compromise (Chapters 9–11)
- Division of the kingdom into Israel and Judah (Chapter 12)
- Jeroboam’s idolatry and new religious system (Chapters 12–14)
- Succession of kings in both kingdoms (Chapters 15–16)
- Elijah confronts Ahab and calls down fire on Mount Carmel (Chapter 18)
- Elijah flees and encounters God at Horeb (Chapter 19)
- Prophecies against Ahab and judgments fulfilled (Chapters 20–22)
Application & Life Lessons
- Wisdom is a gift but must be paired with obedience
- Idolatry begins with small compromises and grows into destruction
- Leadership decisions can shape the future of entire nations
- God uses prophets to call His people back to truth
- Power and success do not guarantee faithfulness
- Even in times of national decline, God preserves a faithful remnant
- God’s word always comes to pass, whether in blessing or judgment
Bible Study Videos
Video by the Bible Project providing an overview of 1 & 2 Kings
Sermons & Teachings
Sermon by Skip Heitzig offering a brief overview of 1 Kings
Podcasts
- Related Podcasts Coming Soon
Articles
- Related Articles Coming Soon
Bible Reading Plans
- Related Bible Reading Plans Coming Soon
Books
This section may contain affiliate links
- Related Books Coming Soon
Related Blog Posts
Related Blog Posts Coming Soon
Disclosures & Notices
Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.