Introduction to the first book of Kings
The 11th Book of the Bible: The Books of Kings in Israel, Part 1
Like the Books of Samuel and Chronicles, the First and Second Books of Kings originally formed a single book, or more accurately, a single scroll.
Historically, the Books of Kings follow directly after Samuel, beginning with the final days of King David.
The end of the Books of Kings also recounts the end of the reign of the Jewish kings in the land of Israel, the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, and the people’s exile.
The name of the author or authors is not mentioned in the Books of Kings; with the exception of the last chapter of the Second Book, the prophet Jeremiah may be one of the possible authors.
The First Book of Kings begins by describing the reign of King Solomon; this period represents the golden age of the monarchy in Israel.
David’s numerous wars had brought peace to the kingdom from hostile neighbors, and Solomon’s wise reign brought the people security and prosperity through trade and employment.
In addition, the first Temple for the Ark of the Covenant was built in Jerusalem, further cementing its significance as the center of Israel—a status that continues to this day, 3,000 years later.
But in his old age, Solomon completely failed in his role as guardian of the faith in the one God of Israel.
He authorized the construction of places of worship for his many wives from pagan nations, thereby reopening the door to idolatry in Israel and, through these actions, bringing God’s wrath upon the land He had chosen as His own.
Consequently, after Solomon’s reign, the unity of Israel as a nation was shattered.
A northern kingdom named Israel emerged, consisting of 10 tribes with their own king; Samaria was established as the new capital.
Meanwhile, the southern kingdom of Judah, consisting of the remaining two tribes, continued with the seat of David’s dynasty in Jerusalem.
The First Book of Kings continues to recount the history of the divided kingdoms, focusing on the Northern Kingdom of Israel and the ministry of the prophet Elijah.
Here, idolatry had already been introduced at the very beginning by the first king, Jeroboam, with two golden calves, and this evil, godless spirit continues to run through the list of the kings of Israel.
Outline of the First Book of Kings:
Chapters 1 through 2, verse 11 – Solomon’s anointing as king, David’s death
Chapter 2, verse 12 to Chapter 11 – Solomon’s reign until his death
Chapter 12 to Chapter 16 – The division of the kingdom and the first kings of the North and South
Chapter 17 to the end – The ministry of the prophet Elijah in Israel
Content of the first book of Kings:
1. Kings chapter 1
1. Kings chapter 2
1. Kings chapter 3
1. Kings chapter 4
1. Kings chapter 5
1. Kings chapter 6
1. Kings chapter 7
1. Kings chapter 8
1. Kings chapter 9
1. Kings chapter 10
1. Kings chapter 11
1. Kings chapter 12
1. Kings chapter 13
1. Kings chapter 14
1. Kings chapter 15
1. Kings chapter 16
1. Kings chapter 17
1. Kings chapter 18
1. Kings chapter 19
1. Kings chapter 20
1. Kings chapter 21
1. Kings chapter 22