Summary 1 Kings 8:22-66:

Solomon dedicates God’s temple, praising God for His faithfulness and asking God to keep His promises. Solomon asks God to hear their prayers and judge fairly. He asks God to forgive His people when they turn from Him but then return to Him. He asks God to forgive and act so the people will fear God. He asks God to answer the prayers of foreigners to glorify His name. He asks God to support them in war and to hear the prayers of those who have sinned against him and forgive them.  Then he blesses the people and prays for them to always follow God’s laws. Then Solomon made sacrifices and offerings to the Lord and the people celebrated for 14 days. Everyone left glad in heart for all the good things God had done for them.

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 27, Day 5: 1 Kings 8:22-66:

12) Solomon understands that God is omnipotent, that He is in control, and everything happens because of God. He understands God is faithful, trustworthy, forgiving, and just. He understands God’s greatness, that He can’t just occupy one building but is everywhere. He focused on God’s past fulfillment of promises, His present fulfillment, and His future fulfillment of promises.

13) Solomon prays for the people of Israel to be forgiven when they sin and turn away from the Lord. He understands they need a leader. He understands they need God to teach them how to live. He understands they need God in war. He understands they need God to hear them. He understands that people will hear of God’s goodness and deeds and turn to Him. He understands everyone needs God.

14) Personal Question. My answer: Solomon praises God for all He’s done, thanks God for all He’s done and all He will do, and acknowledging our transgressions before asking for God’s forgiveness. He also asks God to fulfill His promises. This is something I’ve not done and will try to do. Ask God, for He won’t give if you don’t ask.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 27 Day 5: 1 Kings 8:22-66:

Great lesson in how to pray.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 27, Day 5: 1 Kings 8:22-66:

Solomon’s prayer

Spreading your hands towards heaven was the most common posture of prayer in the Old Testament. Many modern people close their eyes, bow their head, and fold their hands as they pray; but the Old Testament tradition was to spread out the hands toward heaven in a gesture of surrender, openness, and ready reception.

“Solomon’s prayer is far from new, and is full of quotations from the Pentateuch, some of which are almost word for word, while the sense of the whole may be found in those memorable passages in Leviticus and Deuteronomy.” (Spurgeon)

Highlights of Solomon’s Prayer

1. Solomon first thanked and praised God for His past fulfillment of promises.
2. Solomon called upon God to keep the promises that He made. This is the great secret to power in prayer – to take God’s promises to heart in faith, and then to boldly and reverently call upon Him to fulfill the promises.
3. Solomon asked God to forgive the people.

If we don’t claim God’s promises, God’s promises are left unclaimed.

Though God had a special presence in the temple, He was far too great to be restricted to the temple.

Solomon asked God to incline His ear towards the king and the people when they prayed toward the temple. For this reason, many observant Jews still pray facing the direction of the site of the temple in Jerusalem.

• The temple grounds were used as a place to verify and authorize oaths. When a dispute came down to one word against another, Solomon asked that the temple would be a place to properly swear by, he asked God to enforce from heaven the oaths made at the temple.
• Solomon asked God to hear the prayers of a defeated, yet humble and penitent Israel. God answered this prayer of Solomon, and He forgives and restores His defeated people when they come in humble repentance.
• A man did not have to be sinless or righteous to have his prayer answered at the temple. He could be a guilty man, stricken by the plague of his own heart, and still find a gracious God when He came in humble repentance.
• Solomon prayed for a blessing on every military excursion.

The foreigner at the temple

The temple was in Israel, but it was always intended to be a house of prayer for all nations (Isaiah 56:7). God wanted the court of the Gentiles to be a place where the nations could come and pray.

The violation of this principle made Jesus angry. When He came to the temple and found the outer courts – the only place where the Gentile nations could come and pray – more like a swap meet than a house of prayer, He drove out the moneychangers and the merchants (Matthew 21:13)

“When they sin against You (for there is no one who does not sin)”: This is a succinct Old Testament statement of the principle most clearly stated in Romans 3:23: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

Solomon prays for the Israelites on his knees

1 Kings 8:22 tells us that Solomon began this prayer standing, but some time before he finished, he fell to his knees in reverence to God.

• Ezra prayed on his knees (Ezra 9:5),
• the Psalmist called us to kneel (Psalm 95:6),
• Daniel prayed on his knees (Daniel 6:10),
• people came to Jesus kneeling (Matthew 17:14, Matthew 20:20, Mark 1:40),
• Stephen prayed on his knees (Acts 7:60),
• Peter prayed on his knees (Acts 9:40),
• Paul prayed on his knees (Acts 20:36, Ephesians 3:14),
• other early Christians prayed on their knees (Acts 21:5).
• Most importantly, Jesus prayed on His knees (Luke 22:41).
• The Bible has enough prayer not on the knees to show us that it isn’t required, but it also has enough prayer on the knees to show us that it is good.

Solomon again shows the often-neglected missionary impulse God wanted in Israel. Blessing to Israel wasn’t meant to end with Israel; God wanted to bless the world through Israel.

Feast of Tabernacles

This was a staggering – almost grotesque – amount of sacrifice. Each animal was ritually sacrificed and a portion was dedicated to the LORD, and the remainder was given to the priests and the people. It was enough to feed a vast multitude for two weeks.

It was such a great amount of sacrifice that they specially consecrated the area in front of the temple to receive sacrifices, because the bronze altar that was before the LORD was too small to receive the burnt offerings.

This Feast of Tabernacles extended beyond its normal seven days on this special occasion.

The writer remembers that it was David’s heart and vision that started the work of the temple (2 Samuel 7:1-3 and following).

This was the highlight of Solomon’s reign. “How happy must these people have been, and how prosperous, had their king continued to walk uprightly before God! But alas! the king fell, and the nation followed his example.” (Clarke)

Abiathar was a survivor.

All the men in Abiathar’s family were slaughtered, and his whole family killed because they were suspected of helping David escape from Saul (1 Samuel 22).

Only Abiathar escaped, making his way to David’s outlaw camp. He was David’ primary spiritual advisor and became the nation’s high priest once David was crowned king. He remained loyal to David when his son, Absalom, led a rebellion and became a spy for David (2 Samuel 15:24-29).

In the end, Abiathar backed Adonijah when he tried to take the throne from feeble and old King David. David did not kill him as he ought — instead he was banished, doomed to end his life as he began — an outcast and fulfilling the prophecy of the end of the rule of the house of Eli (1 Samuel 2:31-35).

Summary 1 Kings 9:1-9:

God appears to Solomon after the temple was finished and tells Solomon to follow his laws and decrees and his throne will be established over Israel forever. But if he or his sons turn away and worship other gods, God will forsake them, cut off Israel from the Promised Land, and reject the temple. Israel will be scoffed at and all will know the Israelites disobeyed God.

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 28, Day 2: 1 Kings 9:1-9:

3) Solomon had finished God’s temple (7 years) and his palace (13 years). He had conquered a vast territory and all of Israel had peace and safety. He had horses and chariots. The land was plentiful.

4) God tells Solomon to follow his laws and decrees and his throne will be established over Israel forever. But if he or his sons turn away and worship other gods, God will forsake them, cut off Israel from the Promised Land, and reject the temple. Israel will be scoffed at and all will know the Israelites disobeyed God. These words were to remind Solomon to choose God and not others gods. It’s to remind Solomon of the consequences of disobedience. It’s to give him another chance before he turns from God.

5) Personal Question. My answer: It means to walk in the ways of Jesus. Follow God’s words and follow God’s and Jesus’s heart for others and the world. It’s relevant to me every day as I try to remember to do what Jesus would do, put others first, and care about others.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 28 Day 2: 1 Kings 9:1-9:

Even though God doesn’t appear to us today like He did in OT times, he still reminds us of the blessings we will receive if we walk in His ways and the consequences if we don’t. We see this in the choices we make every day: whether to live God’s way or our own.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 28, Day 2: 1 Kings 9:1-9:

This was 24 years after Solomon came to the throne. The temple and the palace work at Jerusalem were finished. Now Solomon had to deal with life after completing his greatest accomplishment.

“It was the hour when the accomplishment of work means the relaxation of effort. That is always a perilous hour, and the greater the work done the graver the peril. A life which has been full of activity, when that activity ceases, demands some new interest, and will find it, either high or low, noble or ignoble.” (Morgan)

God appeared to Solomon at the beginning of his reign (1 Kings 3:5-9), which was gracious. It was even better of God to appear to Solomon a second time.

God heard Solomon’s prayer

The great prayer of Solomon in 1 Kings 8 meant nothing unless God heard the prayer. The true measure of our prayer is if God in heaven answers the prayer.

Did God hear Solomon’s prayer? This answer seems to have come many years after the actual dedication of the temple. Yet God also gave Solomon an immediate answer of approval at the time of dedication, when the sacrifices were consumed with fire from heaven (2 Chronicles 7:1-7)

The temple was Solomon’s work, done in the power and inspiration of the LORD. The consecration of the temple was God’s work. Solomon could build a building, but only God could hallow it.

“Man builds; God hallows. This cooperation between man and God pervades all life. Man performs the outward and mechanical; God the inward and spiritual” Meyer

God’s answer to Solomon’s prayer had one condition: If Solomon walked before God in obedience and faithfulness, he could expect blessing on his reign and the reign of his descendants, and the dynasty of David would endure forever.

Note God did not demand perfect obedience from Solomon. David certainly did not walk perfectly before the LORD, and God told Solomon to walk before Me as your father David walked. However, this was definitely within Solomon’s realm of possibilities.

God’s Condition to Solomon’s Prayer

The positive promise of 1 Kings 9:1-5 was followed by a negative promise: If Solomon or his descendants were to turn from following the LORD, God promised to correct a disobedient Israel.

Thus, God answered Solomon’s prayer in 1 Kings 8, but it was not an unqualified promise to bless the temple in any circumstance. God blessed the temple and filled it with the glory of His presence, but he would cast it out of His sight if the kings of Israel forsook the LORD.

With such a glorious temple, Israel would be tempted to forsake the God of the temple and make an idol of the temple of God. Here the LORD made them know that He would not bless them if so

Under the Old Covenant, God promised to use Israel to exalt Himself among the nations one way or another. If Israel obeyed, He would bless them to the point that others had to recognize the hand of God upon Israel. If Israel disobeyed, He would chastise them so severely that the nations would be astonished at the hard work of God among His disobedient people, and they would know that the LORD has brought all this calamity on them.

Summary 1 Kings 9:10-28:

After 20 years of building, Solomon gave 20 towns in Galilee to Hiram, king of Tyre, for all the lumber he had used. The king did not like the towns given him and called them the Land of Cabul (good-for-nothing). As Solomon’s labor force, he used the people who were not Israelites who had remained in the Promised Land whom Solomon could not exterminate. No Israelites were slaves as they were reserved for the army and the building projects. Solomon sacrificed to the Lord burnt offerings and fellowship offerings three times a year. He built ships, using sailors from Tyre and King Hiram again.

Summary 2 Chronicles 8:

Solomon rebuilt villages that Hiram had given him and settled Israelites in them. He captured cities and built up more cities. All the non-Israelites left from the conquering period (Hittities, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites) were made slaves labor for Solomon’s purposes. The Israelites were not slave labor; they were his fighting men and officials. He would not allow his wife, Pharaoh’s daughter, in the palace because she was unclean. Solomon sacrificed burnt offerings and appointed gatekeepers and the Levites to care for the temple. Solomon had ships bring him back gold.

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 28, Day 3: 1 Kings 9:10-28; 2 Chronicles 8:

6) Building his kingdom and procuring gold. He partnered with Hiram who had well-versed sailors bring him gold. He rebuilt villages and captured more. He formed a calvary with chariots as his will. He forced people to be slaves to do his bidding.

7) I’m unsure why he is partnering with King Hiram again, especially after he scoffed at the towns Solomon had given him. He did wisely follow his father David’s lead by appointing divisions of priests for their duties and the Levites to lead the praise and assist the priest’s in their duties, and he appointed gatekeepers as his father had done. He rebuilt cities and gave them the Israelites wisely. He turned foreigners into slaves (unwisely). He kept Pharaoh’s daughter out of the palace wisely. He wisely sacrificed to God daily and at festivals. The kingdom was well-ordered (2 Chronicles 8:16), which was wise.

8 ) Personal Question. My answer: I try to spend my time wisely and not waste it. I spend a lot of time working, maybe too much. I do my hobbies. Measuring success of a pursuit depends on the pursuit. If you set out to run a 10k and you do, that’s success. If you work hard at your job every day, that’s success. If you’re kids are happy, that’s success. I hope I am deemed wise for how I spend my time and energy, but who knows. I’m a hard worker, but maybe too much. Success is measured by the feeling others have around you and you have about yourself I think.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 28 Day 3: 1 Kings 9:10-28; 2 Chronicles 8:

There is nothing remarkable about Solomon’s middle years; he’s doing what every king does: building his empire and wealth, while being good to his people. It’s hard to fault him. Sure, there are signs of him pulling from the Lord, but no concrete actions yet. We can this of a lot of us.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 28, Day 3: 1 Kings 9:10-28; 2 Chronicles 8:

Commentary 1 Kings 9:10-28:

Tyre – the prominent city in the land just north of Israel (modern Lebanon) – was noted for its fine wood.

Trading Israel’s land for a glorious temple and palace was not in God’s plan. Hiram was a friend to both David and Solomon, but the land of Israel was given to Israel by divine decree and was therefore not Solomon’s right to give away.

However, this transaction shows that Solomon was a shrewd dealer and got the better of Hiram in these arrangements, arguably not exactly scrupulously. It seems that Solomon gave Hiram some fairly insignificant settlements (we’re not told the exact reason Hiram is displeased) and received a large amount of gold in return — estimated at $50 million in today’s money.

Slave labor

Solomon raised this massive labor force to complete massive building projects.

Hazor, Megiddo, and Gezer: These were three prominently fortified cities in the days of Solomon.

• “Hazor was strategically placed in the north (c. three miles north of the Sea of Galilee), being situated at the juncture of the two major highways approaching from the north. It became Israel’s chief bulwark against northern invaders until it was destroyed in the eighth century by Tiglath-pileser III.” (Patterson and Austel)
• “Megiddo was the great fortress that controlled the major passes from the Plain of Sharon on the coast into the Valley of Jezreel through the Carmel range. It figures in prophecy as the staging area for the last great battle (Armageddon) in which Christ will defeat the forces of the Antichrist.” (Patterson and Austel)
• “Gezer, on the road from Joppa to Jerusalem, had been a powerful Canaanite city. Though it was included in the tribal territory of Ephraim, it was not occupied by the Israelites until the time of Solomon. Then it was given to Solomon as a wedding gift by Pharaoh to his daughter.” (Patterson and Austel)

God strictly commanded that the remnants of these tribes be driven out of the land, not used as slave laborers in Israel. Solomon didn’t make the Israelites forced laborers, but used them to oversee the remnants of the Canaanite tribes.

The Bible tells us Solomon offered up burnt sacrifices and fellowship offerings. It is possible that this was another transgression by Solomon since this would be only a job for the priests. However, as is the case in some other passages, this may refer to Solomon initiating such sacrifice and ceremony properly through a priest.

Where is Ophir?

The location of Ophir is unknown.

“No man knows certainly, to this day, where this Ophir was situated. There were two places of this name: one somewhere in India, beyond the Ganges, and another in Arabia, near the country of the Sabaeans, mentioned by Job 22:24.” (Clarke)

Either way, Ophir is far away, which would have been a great undertaking in ancient times.

Commentary 2 Chronicles 8:

This passage reflects Solomon’s great heart and ambition as a builder. He energetically settled new cities and built storage cities, fortifications, chariot cities, and cities of the cavalry.

We find a problem in reconciling the mention of the cities that Hiram gave to Solomon because 1 Kings 9:11-14 indicates that they were given by Solomon to Hiram. “While textual disturbance is possible, it seems more probable that they had been returned to Solomon, either because they were unacceptable (1 Kings 9:12-13) or because they had been collateral for a loan (1 Kings 9:14).” (Selman)

Sadly, this new emphasis on chariots and cavalry shows that Solomon did not take God’s word as seriously as he should. In Deuteronomy 17:16, God spoke specifically to the future kings of Israel: But he shall not multiply horses for himself. It would be much better if Solomon had the heart reflected in Psalm 20:7: Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.

Pharaoh’s wife will led Solomon along a remarkably wicked path (1 Kings 11:4-8).  This shows what happens when you put political alliances (marry and unbeliever) above God.

In accordance with the commanded morning and evening sacrifices (Numbers 28:1-8) Solomon administrated the burnt offering for Israel. He also observed the other sacrifices commanded by the Law of Moses.

Solomon carried forth the administration for the temple service as it was originally organized by King David (1 Chronicles 24).

Solomon definitely used his ties with Tyre to explore and trade. Solomon boldly led the people of Israel into new ventures.

“‘Ezion Geber and Elath’ were ports at the north end of the Gulf of Aqaba that provided a strategic commercial access southward into the Red Sea and beyond.” (Payne)

“Solomon probably bore the expenses, and his friend, the Tyrian king, furnished him with expert sailors; for the Jews, at no period of their history, had any skill in maritime affairs, their navigation being confined to the lakes of their own country, from which they could never acquire any nautical skill.” (Clarke)

Summary of 1 Kings 10:1-13:

The Queen of Sheba visits Solomon, having heard of his wisdom and wealth, to see for herself. She arrives in Jerusalem with camels, spices, gold, and precious stones. He answered all of her questions. She praised him for his wisdom and praised God who put him on Israel’s throne to maintain justice and righteousness. She gave him gold, spices, and precious stones. Solomon gave her gifts in return.

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 28, Day 4: 1 Kings 10:1-13:

9) The Queen of Sheba had heard about Solomon’s fame and about his relationship with God, so she came to test him with hard questions. She was impressed by his answers to all her questions, his wisdom, his palace and food, his officials, his servants and cupbearers, and the burnt offerings he made to God.

10) She concluded that his men and officials must be happy. She concluded that God delights in Solomon and has placed Solomon on Israel’s throne  because He loves Israel and wants to see justice and righteousness amidst His people.

11) Part personal Question. My answer:  Solomon and Jesus are both wise. Both were kings. Solomon died. Christ died, but rose again. Both were promised to reign forever. Only Jesus fulfilled that promise. Both do things for their people. Solomon is influenced by sin, so he eventually falls away from God; whereas, Jesus never does. Both face temptation. Solomon gives in; Jesus does not.  I am not wondering if Jesus is all that he claims to be. I don’t have any hard questions for Jesus. Life is how it is because we are sinners. I wonder about things, but who doesn’t? I don’t question Jesus, however.

For more in-depth ways, read HERE

Conclusions BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 28 Day 4: 1 Kings 10:1-13:

I find this story fascinating. It is a lost tradition these days to visit people of renown, seek their wisdom, and exchange gifts. In ancient times, this happened all the time between rulers. Our leaders do this somewhat today, but it seems it’s not as meaningful. I like how because of Solomon’s example of following God, the Queen came. We can do the same thing. Lead a Godly life, and others will follow our lead.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 28, Day 4: 1 Kings 10:1-13:

Sheba (also known as Sabea) was where modern-day Yemen is today (Southern Arabia). We know from geography this was a wealthy kingdom with much gold, spices, and precious woods. History also tells us that they were known to have queens as well as kings.

This was a long trip – up to about 1,500 miles (2,400 kilometers). She probably came as part of a trade delegation (1 Kings 10:2-5), but there is no doubt that she was highly motivated to see Solomon and his kingdom.

She came to Solomon and Israel at their material zenith. The great prosperity, splendor, and wisdom of Solomon’s kingdom were internationally famous.

This queen traveled in the manner of queens, with a large royal procession, heavily laden with gifts and goods for trade.

This Queen was obviously familiar with the world of royal splendor and luxury. Yet she was completely overwhelmed by the wisdom of Solomon and the glory of his kingdom.

The Blessings of God

This is what God wanted to do for Israel under the promises of the Old Covenant. God promised Israel that if they obeyed under the Old Covenant, He would bless them so tremendously that the world would notice and give glory to the Lord God of Israel.

Now it shall come to pass, if you diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God, to observe carefully all His commandments which I command you today, that the LORD your God will set you high above all nations of the earth… Then all peoples of the earth shall see that you are called by the name of the LORD, and they shall be afraid of you. (Deuteronomy 28:1, 10)

God wanted to reach the nations through an obedient and blessed Israel. If Israel did not obey, then God would speak to the nations through a thoroughly disciplined Israel.

The Queen of Sheba

The Queen of Sheba is an example of a seeker. Solomon impressed her with his wealth, his splendor, and personally. But she returned home without an evident expression of faith in the God of Israel. This shows that impressing seekers with facilities, programs, organization and professionalism isn’t enough.

Qualities of a Seeker we see in the Queen of Sheba:

• The Queen of Sheba came from a great distance.
• The Queen of Sheba came with gifts.
• The Queen of Sheba came to question and to learn.
• The Queen of Sheba came and saw the riches of the king.
• The Queen of Sheba came for an extended period.
• The Queen of Sheba came with an open heart and telling all that was on her heart.

Jesus used the Queen of Sheba as an example of a seeker: The queen of the South will rise up in the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and indeed a greater than Solomon is here (Matthew 12:42). If the Queen of Sheba sought Solomon and the splendor of his kingdom so diligently, how much more should people today seek Jesus and the glory of His Kingdom. The Queen of Sheba will certainly also rise up in judgment against this generation.

Solomon was not necessarily the most logical successor of his father David. There were several sons of David born before Solomon. He was indeed the Lord’s choice to lead His people.

Summary of 1 Kings 10:14-29:

Solomon accumulated gold and shields. He made a huge throne of ivory and gold. Everything was made of gold. He engaged in foreign trade with gold, silver, ivory, apes, and baboons. Solomon was greater in riches and wisdom than any other earthly king. Everyone sought his advice and gave him gifts in return. Solomon accumulated chariots and horses, and silver was common in Jerusalem.

Summary of Psalm 72:

David prays for Solomon. He asks God to endow him with justice. The people will prosper. He will defend the afflicted and help the children of the poor. Solomon will endure and be prosperous. All kings will bow to him. May he live long and his name endure forever. Let all nations be blessed by him. Praise to God.

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 28, Day 5: 1 Kings 10:14-29; Psalm 72:

12) Part personal Question. My answer. Solomon was just to the people. He judged in righteousness. He defended the afflicted and saved the children of the needy. He lived a long life. He ruled a vast area. The desert tribes bowed before him. He was brought tribute by distant kings. The kings of Sheba and Seba presented him with gifts. All kings will bow down to Solomon and serve him. He rescued the needy. People prayed for him and blessed him. The land was plentiful. His name endures forever. All nations were blessed by him, and they called Solomon blessed. It doesn’t really encourage me to pray. We should be praying for all those lost anyways and for all we know to prosper, for those who are suffering, and for God to show up in lives and bless people.

13) Part personal Question. My answer: When you have great wealth, you have great responsibility.  People want to learn from you, and you are obligated to help them be better people. You also have an obligation to take care of those less fortunate than you — both financially and with your time. My lesson is when you’re successful, you need to help others who are struggling. Share your wealth. Bless others.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 28 Day 5: 1 Kings 10:14-29; Psalm 72:

This shows the power of prayer of parents for their children. King David prayed powerfully for Solomon, and God granted all of David’s requests. Solomon was indeed blessed by God, in part because of David’s faithfulness to God. It also shows the power of God’s blessings when you walk in His ways.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 28, Day 5: 1 Kings 10:14-29; Psalm 72:

Commentary 1 Kings 10:14-29:

This was a vast amount of gold, which came to Solomon yearly. One commentator estimated the value of the 666 talents of gold at $281,318,400. According to the value of gold in 2015, it would be just under $1 billion dollars. This speaks not only to the great wealth of Solomon, but it also makes him the only other person in the Bible associated with the number 666.

The other Biblical connection to 666 is the end-times world dictator and opponent of God and His people often known as the Antichrist (Revelation 13:18). In fact, the Revelation passage specifically says that the number 666 is the number of a man, and the man may be Solomon. This isn’t to say that Solomon was the Antichrist or that the coming Antichrist will be some strange reincarnation of Solomon.

1 Kings assumes that we know of the instructions for future kings of Israel in Deuteronomy 17:14-20. God blessed Solomon with great riches, but Solomon allowed that blessing to turn into a danger because he disobediently multiplied silver and gold for himself.

According to Dilday, each large shield was worth about $120,000 ($250,000 at 2015 values). The smaller shields were worth $30,000 ($57,000 at 2015 values). $33 million was invested in gold ceremonial shields.

King Solomon surpassed all the kings of the earth in riches and wisdom

The promises of Deuteronomy 28:1-14 were fulfilled in his reign: The LORD will open to you His good treasure, the heavens, to give the rain to your land in its season, and to bless all the work of your hand. You shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow(Deuteronomy 28:12).

There were few military conflicts during the reign of Solomon, yet he still saw the importance of a strong defense. Perhaps there were few military conflicts because Solomon had a strong defense.

Remains of Solomon’s fortress and stables at Megiddo can be seen today.

When we think of Solomon’s great wealth, we also consider that he originally did not set his heart upon riches. He deliberately asked for wisdom to lead the people of God instead of riches or fame. God promised to also give Solomon riches and fame, and God fulfilled His promise.

Solomon gave an eloquent testimony to the vanity of riches as the preacher in the Book of Ecclesiastes. He powerfully showed that there was no ultimate satisfaction through materialism. We don’t have to be as rich as Solomon to learn the same lesson.

Multiplying horses was in direct disobedience to Deuteronomy 17:16, which said to the Kings of Israel: But he shall not multiply horses for himself, nor cause the people to return to Egypt to multiply horses, for the LORD has said to you, “You shall not return that way again.”

Solomon traded in horses with the kings of the Hittites and Syria. Solomon could have used this as an excuse, saying he was not using the horses for himself. Many examples of gross disobedience begin as clever rationalizations.

Commentary Psalm 72:

The title of this Psalm is, A Psalm of Solomon. It is possible to translate the Hebrew here (and in almost all the Psalms which reference an author) as “A Psalm to Solomon,” and some have regarded it as David’s Psalm to and about his son Solomon and his Greater Son the Messiah. Yet, the most natural way to take the title is as it is given, A Psalm of Solomon and that the line about David in 72:20 refers to the collection of Book Two of the Psalms, which is heavy with David’s Psalms, separating it from Book Three, which begins with 11 Psalms authored by Asaph.

It is possible that Solomon complied this second book of the Psalms (Psalms 42-72) and composed this Psalm as a fitting conclusion for the collection of mostly David’s Psalms. It is a fitting conclusion, because it unexpectedly does not focus upon David himself, but on the Messiah – the King of Kings and the Son of David.

“The New Testament nowhere quotes it as Messianic, but this picture of the king and his realm is so close to the prophecies of Isaiah 11:1-5 and Isaiah 60-62 that if those passages are Messianic, so is this.” (Derek Kidner)

“Righteousness dominates this opening, since in Scripture it is the first virtue of government, even before compassion (which is the theme of verses 12-14).” (Kidner)

Sometimes mountains represent human governments in the Bible, and David may have intended this allusion. He had in mind a national government (mountains) that blessed the people and local government (the little hills) that ruled with righteousness. This godly government would accomplish at least three things:

1. The king and his government will make sure that justice is administered fairly.
2. The king and his government will rescue those most vulnerable in society.
3. The king and his government will protect Israel, keeping them free from external domination and from internal corruption.

However, the mountains could stand for something else:

• Geddes wrote they spoke of messengers placed on a series of mountains or hilltops distributed news through a land.
• Mollerus wrote that it spoke of the fertility of soil on the mountains.
• Caryl wrote that it speaks of the safety from robbers who often infested mountain passes.
• Alexander Maclaren wrote of another sense: “The mountains come into view here simply as being the most prominent features of the land.”

Psalm 72:5-7

• The answer to the prayer would mean that the people of Israel – the king, his government, and the people – would fear the Lord forever, throughout all generations.
• The Scriptures often connect the ideas of righteous, just government, and blessing upon the ecology and produce of the land.
• As God sends such a rich blessing His people would flourish and there would be an abundance of peace (shalom) that will last beyond comprehension (until the moon is no more).
• In a greater sense, it points to Jesus alone. The connection between the righteous and peace reminds us of Melchizedek, the One who was and is both the King of Righteousness and the King of Peace (Hebrews 7:1-3).
• To oppose the King with such a great dominion meant certain defeat. His enemies would be brought low in a way associated with the curse upon The Enemy in Genesis 3:14-15.

“Bear in mind that it was a custom with many nations that, when individuals approached their kings, they kissed the earth, and prostrated their whole body before them. This was the custom especially throughout Asia.” (LeBlanc, cited in Spurgeon)

All kings shall fall down was prophesied in a beautiful word from the prophet Nathan in 2 Samuel 7, which had in mind both David’s immediate son and successor (Solomon) and David’s ultimate Son and Successor (Jesus the Messiah). Both were in view in 2 Samuel 7:11-16, and both are in view in Psalm 72. The fulfillment in Solomon’s day is described in 1 Kings 10:23-25

“The distant nations are the kings of the ‘distant shores’ (72:10): Tarshish (cf. Psalm 48:7), Sheba (modern Yemen), and Seba (an African nation: cf. Genesis 10:7; Isaiah 43:3; 45:14

“Tarshish may have been Tartessus in Spain; it was in any case a name associated with long voyages; likewise the isles or ‘coastlands’ were synonymous with the ends of the earth: see, e.g. Isaiah 42:10.” (Kidner)

Psalm 72:12-14

• The justice and righteousness David prayed for and aspired to regarding Solomon’s reign (Psalm 72:1-4) will be perfectly fulfilled in the Greater King.
• “The king is represented in Psalms 72:14 as taking on himself the office of Goel, or Kinsman-Redeemer, and ransoming his subjects’ lives from ‘deceit and violence.’” (Maclaren)

Blessed as it was, Solomon’s own reign did not live up to this fully. After his death they complained of his oppression (1 Kings 12:4). “Solomon continues to speak more wisely than he was ever to act.” (Kidner)

The lives of the poor and needy are often considered to be of little value. The Messiah, the Greater King, will regard their life as precious. This is especially meaningful when we consider the cheap regard for life outside and before the world influenced by Christianity.

Psalm 72:15-17

Commentators debate verses 15-17 if the He spoken of here refers to the ransomed man of the previous lines or of the King who ransomed him. Since the previous lines speak of a multitude redeemed and this He speaks of One, and because the following lines fit much better with the King, we regard He shall live as both a wish and a declaration for the King.

“How little this might mean is obvious from the address, ‘O king, live forever’, in the book of Daniel; yet also how much, can be seen from the Messianic prophecies and from the way these were understood in New Testament times.” (Kidner)

The Greater King would receive gifts and honor and praise. He would bestow great blessing on the earth (an abundance of grain in the earth) and upon His people (those of the city shall flourish).

“Gold, grain, and fruit were ancient measures of prosperity. So this is a way of saying that under the reign of Jesus there will be prosperity of every conceivable kind.” (Boice)

David recognized that this King of Kings was not only the fulfillment of the promise made to him in 2 Samuel 7:11-16. It was also the fulfillment of the great promise made to Abraham in Genesis 12:1-3: In you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.

Themes of Psalm 72

Psalm 72 speaks powerfully of the kingdom of the King of Kings and speaks of it in terms of His personal rule, not ruling through an institution such as the Church. “In this Psalm, at least, we see a personal monarch, and he is the central figure, the focus of all the glory; not his servant, but himself do we see possessing the dominion and dispensing the government. Personal pronouns referring to our great King are constantly occurring in this Psalm; he has dominion, kings fall down before him,: and serve him; for he delivers; he spares, he saves, he lives, and daily is he praised.” (Spurgeon)

There is also a tragedy in this Psalm. As high as it soars with the concept of the king and his reign, we remember the sad disappointment of how quickly the monarchy in Israel declined after Solomon. There were certainly some good kings after Solomon, but the glory of the kingdom went from Solomon’s gold (1 Kings 10:16-17) to Rehoboam’s bronze (1 Kings 14:25-28) in only about five years.

Summary 1 Kings 11:1-8:

Solomon had a weakness — women. He married foreign women against God’s commands (700 total and 300 concubines). As he grew older, his wives turned his heart to other gods and his heart was not fully devoted to God like David’s was. He did evil in the eyes of the Lord, built shrines to foreign gods to appease his wives, and encouraged the Israelites to follow these gods.

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 29, Day 2: 1 Kings 11:1-8:

3) Solomon worshipped other gods, made treaties with pagans, made cast idols, and married foreign women. He acquired large amounts of horses and accumulated large amounts of silver and gold.

4) Marriage is a sacred institution, designed by God, for His glory, meant to be between one man and one woman. He tells us not to marry unbelievers (foreigners at the time of Solomon) because they can unduly influence us, corrupt our hearts, and turn us from Him. This is for our good; otherwise, we can stray from God and never return, and we can influence our children and those around us to do the same.

5) Personal Question. My answer: I don’t do it. It’s not that simple, but it can be. I try to live a Godly life and be close to God. With that, I rely on the Holy Spirit and prayer to guide me to make good decisions. Sometimes I don’t and, luckily, God forgives.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 29 Day 2: 1 Kings 11:1-8:

Solomon is a good example of just how powerful those around us can be. Parents are correct to monitor who their children hang out with. We all need to be aware of those around us and surround us with Godly people who lift us up in this broken world.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 29, Day 2: 1 Kings 11:1-8:

Solomon makes two mistakes:

1. Solomon marries foreign women who worshipped other gods and brought pagan influences to Israel. S
2. Solomon marries hundreds of women, rejecting God’s plan from the beginning for one man and one woman to become one flesh in marriage (Matthew 19:4-6, Genesis 2:23-24)

For all of Solomon’s wisdom, he messes this one up big time. Solomon loved these women more than he loved God.

Why did Solomon have so many wives?

1. Solomon married for political power and influence.
2. Solomon married to show the world how wealthy he was. In ancient times, a large harem was a status symbol, announcing to the world how many women you can support and have dominion over with your wealth.
3. Solomon married because of his lust for women (or worldly things women brought him).
4. Solomon married so many women because his father, King David, did (2 Samuel 5:13-16)

This is an almost unbelievable number of marriage partners. His wives were considered princesses, but his concubines were legal partners without the same standing as wives. All said, Solomon had far more marriage partners than any man could possibly give attention to.

Many prominent men in the Old Testament had concubines. Examples include Abraham (Genesis 25:6), Jacob (Genesis 35:22), Caleb (1 Chronicles 2:46), Saul (2 Samuel 3:7), David (2 Samuel 5:13), and Rehoboam (2 Chronicles 11:21). Significantly, the Bible never shows this kind of family life blessed by God.

If one wife is not enough to satisfy a man, then 1,000 wives will not be enough. When a man is unsatisfied with the woman God gave to him, the problem is with him, not with his wife. Solomon should have listened to Proverbs 27:20: Hell and Destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied.

Theme of 1 Kings 8:

Solomon’s desire for worldly prestige led him to ungodly marriages.

Based upon the Song of Solomon, Solomon seemed to know what true love was with one woman.

We don’t know when Solomon added his second wife. When he did, it was easy for him to rationalize it – after all, the greatest King of Israel, his father David, had several wives and concubines. Once he began,  (Matthew 19:4-6 and Genesis 2:23-24), it was easy for him to keep adding wives, breaking God’s commandment in Deuteronomy 17:17: Neither shall he multiply wives for himself, lest his heart turn away.

Age did not make Solomon wiser.  Age and experience should make us more godly and wise, but they do not automatically do so.

His heart was not loyal to the LORD his God: Solomon is a contrast to those who did fully follow the LORD. This phrase is used in a positive sense of three men in the Old Testament: Joshua and Caleb (Numbers 32:11-12, Deuteronomy 1:36, Joshua 14:8-9, 14), and here of David.

Solomon had more than one wife and David had more than one wife (fifteen, according to 1 Chronicles 3:1-9). David spiritually survived this failing, while Solomon did not.

Our actions influence others

David was probably not yet in heaven (Luke 16:19-31), but in a place of blessing and comfort known as Abraham’s bosom. If it were possible for someone in Abraham’s bosom to see life on the earth and be sorry, David was very sorry when he saw Solomon and his sin. David no doubt hoped that his children would be better than he, and find more victory in the areas of life that troubled him. Sadly, David’s sons found less victory in controlling the lust of the flesh, and especially sexual lust.

Yet David’s sin did not turn his heart away from the LORD. It is possible for a particular sin in one person to be a hindrance to someone else’s life. David’s lack of romantic and sexual restraint hindered him; it destroyed Solomon. This is one reason why we must be so careful with the sin of stumbling another brother or sister (Romans 14, 1 Corinthians 8).

Altars to foreign gods

Probably Solomon did not see his building of altars to other gods as a denial of the Lord God of Israel. In his mind, he probably thought that he still honored the LORD; he simply added the honor of these other gods to his honor of the LORD. But this is never acceptable to God. He demands to be the only God in our life.

Because of lust, Solomon found himself in a place where he never thought he would find himself. He found himself burning incense at the altars of depraved pagan gods and at the altar of child sacrifice unto the god Molech. This is the power of sin – it can capture us in a spell, in a fog of spiritual confusion until we do things we never thought we would do.

Question to ponder

If this was the case with the wisest man who ever lived, then what hope do you have apart from constant dependence upon Jesus Christ? Let the example of Solomon drive you to greater dependence upon and abiding with Jesus.

Summary 1 Kings 11:9-13:

The Lord became angry at Solomon for his heart had turned away from God and promised Solomon to tear away his kingdom and give it to one of his subordinates, but not during Solomon’s lifetime out of respect for his father, David. God would take the kingdom away from Solomon’s son instead — and not the whole tribe but just one tribe away from Solomon’s son (here we see the split in Israel happening).

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 29, Day 3: 1 Kings 11:9-13:

6) God was angry because Solomon’s heart had turned away from Him. He had built altars to other gods and worshipped them. Our God is a jealous God.  Following God leads to eternal life and joy in God’s presence. Everything is meaningless of this world without God. God is the only One, True God. God carries His people and sustains them/us and rescues us. God’s plans prevail. God is our creator and gives us life.

7) Part personal Question. My answer: People worship others, celebrities, material items, careers, kids, hobbies, or pets. An idol is anything you put above God or something your worship. I don’t worship anything really. I have passions and hobbies, but nothing I can’t live without.

8 ) God and promised Solomon to tear away his kingdom and give it to one of his subordinates, but not during Solomon’s lifetime out of respect for his father, David. God would take the kingdom away from Solomon’s son instead — and not the whole tribe but just one tribe away from Solomon’s son (here we see the split in Israel happening). God has mercy on His people by not punishing Solomon out of respect for David and not taking away the entire kingdom. God is just, and He does things with others in mind (like His people whom He knows needs a leader right now and not to be in foreign hands.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 29 Day 3: 1 Kings 11:9-13:

It’s sad to read about Solomon’s downfall, but instructive to us. We see the consequences Solomon could not, and we can learn from his mistakes.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 29, Day 3: 1 Kings 11:9-13:

God had good reason to be displeased with Solomon: He had appeared to him twice, and Solomon still turned to other gods. Solomon’s sin was base ingratitude and a waste of great spiritual privilege.

We sometimes think that great spiritual experiences (like praying for a miracle or a sign) will keep us from sin and will keep us faithful to God. Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, saw God and turned. What would be our reaction?

God promised the entire kingdom of Israel to the descendants of David forever, if they only remained obedient. David reminded Solomon of this promise shortly before his death (1 Kings 2:4). Yet they could not remain faithful even one generation.

Solomon’s kingdom had outstanding wealth, military power, and prestige. Yet the true security of Israel was in the blessing of God and in the obedience and faithfulness of their king.

Even in this great judgment, God shows undeserved mercy with deserved judgment. God announces that the kingdom will be divided, and part of it will be loyal to the descendants of David and part of it will be under a different dynasty.

Many other passages in the Old Testament (such as 2 Chronicles 11:12) tell us that the southern kingdom was made up of two tribes, Judah and Benjamin. Several times in this chapter the southern kingdom is referred to as one tribe. This is because either Benjamin is swallowed up in Judah, or the idea was one tribe in addition to Judah.

Summary of 1 Kings 11:14-26:

Hadad the Edomite survived Joab’s attempt to destroy the Edomites by fleeing to Egypt and found favor with Pharaoh. However, he heard both David and Joab had died, so he returned to Israel against Solomon. Another enemy, Rezon son of Eliada rose up against Solomon as well. He ruled in Aram. Jeroboam, one of Solomon’s officials, rebels as well against King Solomon.

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 29, Day 4: 1 Kings 11:14-26:

9) Hadad the Edomite survived Joab’s attempt to destroy the Edomites by fleeing to Egypt and found favor with Pharaoh. However, he heard both David and Joab had died, so he returned to Israel against Solomon. Another enemy, Rezon son of Eliada rose up against Solomon as well. He ruled in Aram. Jeroboam, one of Solomon’s officials, rebels as well against King Solomon. All Solomon had to do was follow God’s rules, laws, and decrees, and he’d receive all the promises God gave to David. He didn’t; thus, God will cut off Israel from the land He has given them, abandon the temple, and become an object of ridicule.

10) The world opposes Christians and persecutes them. They face the powers of the dark and spiritual forces of evil. All are tempted by sin. Everything of the world — the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes, and the boasting of what he has and has done — comes from the world.

11) Personal Question. My answer: I pray to God and read His word in an effort to understand what He is trying to teach me. Oppositions and hardships keep you humble, keep you on His path, and make you buckle down even more to accomplish His will in this world.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 29 Day 4: 1 Kings 11:14-26:

God is fulfilling His plans by having enemies come against Solomon. Consequences from sin are never fun.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 29, Day 4: 1 Kings 11:14-26:

Hadad sought to avenge his conquered people. He found refuge and support in Egypt. We are not told specifically how Hadad troubled or was an adversary to Solomon, only that he returned to bother Solomon with the permission of Pharaoh.

As God allowed an adversary from the south (Hadad, 1 Kings 11:14-22), so God also allowed adversaries to come against Solomon from the north. In some ways, men and women are shaped by their adversaries, and especially by their response to those adversaries.

Jeroboam was different from the two previously mentioned adversaries of Solomon because he was a fellow Israelite.

Summary of 1 Kings 11:26-43:

Jeroboam was in charge of the whole labor force of the house of Joseph. He ran into Ahijah, a prophet of Shiloh. Ahijah tore his new cloak into 12 pieces and gave Jeroboam 10 pieces, telling him God is going to give him 10 tribes, but allow Solomon to keep one tribe because of Solomon’s failure to walk in God’s ways, keep His commands and statues, and worship other gods. He will do this during Solomon’s son’s reign, who will be allowed to keep one tribe so David will always have a lamp in Jerusalem. If Jeroboam follows God’s commands and statues and obeys God, God will establish a dynasty for him and humble David’s descendants. Solomon tried to kill Jeroboam, but Jeroboam fled to Egypt until Solomon died. Solomon reigned 40 years and then died. His son, Rehoboam, succeeded him.

Summary of Ecclesiastes 9:12; 12:1-14:

No one knows when they will die. Remember God for everything in the world is meaningless. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment.

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 29, Day 5: 1 Kings 11:26-43; Ecclesiastes 9:12; 12:1-14:

12) God is going to give him 10 tribes during Solomon’s son’s reign. If Jeroboam follows God’s commands and statues and obeys God, God will establish a dynasty for him and humble David’s descendants.

13) His last months were probably empty, devoid of God, and meaning nothing to him. He had everything except God. Thus, Solomon had nothing. He probably realizes he needed to have kept God’s commandments all the days of his life.

14) Personal Question. My answer: You can have all the blessings in the world, have everything the world had to offer, but without God, you have nothing.  You are alone, and you’ll die feeling unfulfilled. It’s important to remember to obey God and not to allow little sins in your life and excuse them away. The little sins are as big as the big sins, and they all matter to God.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 29 Day 5: 1 Kings 11:26-43; Ecclesiastes 9:12; 12:1-14:

I’m struck by how little is recorded of Solomon’s death; whereas, we have all the details of David’s death. We know Solomon must have had a huge funeral celebration of life like David, but it’s not in the Bible. Solomon seemed to have died empty inside, having sold his soul with idol worship. A man surrounds himself with 1000 women and still dies alone. Sad, very sad.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 29, Day 5: 1 Kings 11:26-43; Ecclesiastes 9:12; 12:1-14:

Commentary 1 Kings 11:26-43:

The name Jeroboam means, “may the people be great.” We are not told why Jeroboam rebelled against Solomon .Jewish traditions say Jeroboam opposed the oppressive use of forced labor in Solomon’s building projects. Since he was the officer over all the labor force, this tradition makes some sense.

God promised to divide Israel and put ten of the twelve tribes under Jeroboam as judgment for the sin and idolatry of Solomon. God would still keep one tribe under the house of David in faithfulness to His promise to David.

Fun Fact: This is the first we hear of the divided kingdom, which became Israel’s history for hundreds of years after the death of Solomon. We would expect that the ten tribes under Jeroboam would be larger, greater, and more enduring than the one tribe left unto the House of David. As it turned out, just the opposite happened because the ten tribes forsook the Lord, while the one tribe was more obedient. God is more powerful than numbers.

God’s promise to Jeroboam

• God promised to make a lasting dynasty for Jeroboam, if he would do what is right in the sight of the Lord. An obedient Jeroboam had the opportunity to establish a parallel dynasty to the House of David.

Both Jeroboam and David were appointed by God to follow after disobedient kings. David waited upon the Lord to make the throne clear, and God blessed his reign. Jeroboam did not wait on the Lord but made his own way to the throne, and God did not bless his reign.

Solomon sought to kill Jeroboam. Solomon thought he could defeat God’s will, but he was unsuccessful. God’s word through Ahijah proved true.

Solomon’s death

Many commentators believe that Solomon began his reign when he was about 20 years old. This means that Solomon did not live a particularly long life. The promise made in 1 Kings 3:14 was not fulfilled to Solomon because of his disobedience.

“Then Solomon rested with his fathers” is a familiar phrase used in 1 and 2 Kings (used 25 times) and was used of such wicked kings as Ahab (1 Kings 22:40). It means that Solomon passed to the world beyond. We cannot say with certainty that he is in heaven.

Based on this chapter, there is no hope or cheer at the end, which leads many commentators to conclude that Solomon died in apostasy.

However, it may be that Solomon was shown special mercy for the sake of David his father (as in 2 Samuel 7:14-15, if that promise also applies to Solomon as well as the Messiah). Some also believe that Solomon wrote the Book of Ecclesiastes at the very end of his life as a renunciation of his fall into vanity.

Commentary Ecclesiastes 9:12; 12:1-14:

When there is more to life than what we can see – there is an eternity and an eternal God to reckon with – then the legitimate pleasures of life can be enjoyed in the best sense. One doesn’t try to find meaning in those pleasures, but simply some good seasoning for a life that finds its meaning in eternity and the eternal God.

One may live according to their heart and by what they see; but they should not think that their own heart  or  eyes will be their judge.

Theme of Ecclesiastes 12:

Life is lived not only for this life but also for eternity, knowing that good will be rewarded and evil will be condemned perfectly by the God who will bring you into judgment. Literally, Solomon spoke of the judgment, referring to our great accountability before God.

Knowing there is an eternity, we can:

• Remove sorrow from our hearts
• Live a holy, godly life in our days on earth.

Apostle Paul later wrote, Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. (1 Corinthians 15:58)

The Apostle Paul: If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable (1 Corinthians 15:19)

Fun Fact: This is the first mention of God as Creator. To this point the Preacher worked hard to ignore the eternal God one must stand before in the future; yet he also refused to think about the Creator God who existed before he did. This self-imposed ignorance relieved the sense of accountability before the Creator, which still must be accounted for in the life to come.

“Creator is a plural form in Hebrew, suggesting greatness of majesty.” (Eaton)

Most agree that what follows here is a poetic description of the effects of advancing age.

• The arms and hands that keep the body now begin to tremble (the keepers of the house tremble).
• The legs and knees begin to sag (the strong men bow down).
• Teeth are lost and chewing is more difficult (the grinders cease because they are few).
• The eyes are dimmed (the windows grow dim).
• The ears become weaker and weaker (the sound of grinding is low).
• Sleep becomes more difficult and one is easy wakened (one rises up at the sound of a bird).
• Singing and music are less appreciated (the daughters of music are brought low).
• One becomes more fearful in life (afraid of height, and of terrors in the way).
• The hair becomes white (the almond tree blossoms).
• The once active become weak (the grasshopper is a burden).
• The passions and desires of life weaken and wane (desire fails).

At the end of advancing age is eternity. Remember God before this life is over. Life is meaningless without God.

How to proclaim God’s truth

• The teacher should teach the people knowledge.
• The teacher should seek to find acceptable words.
• The teacher should seek to bring forth that which is upright – words of truth.
• The teacher should make his words as goads and well-driven nails, with point and direction.
• The teacher should bring forth the words given by one Shepherd.
• The teacher should realize that good study is wearisome to the flesh and be willing to pay that price.

Don’t believe everything you read.

Conclusion to Ecclesiastes 12:

Obey God and live for eternity and prepare for judgment.

Fun fact: This is the only place in Ecclesiastes where the commands of God are mentioned.

When there is an eternal accounting, everything has meaning and importance, both for the present and for eternity.

Paul explained:  For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed with our habitation which is from heaven. (2 Corinthians 4:17-5:2)

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 30/Lesson Review

Day 1

1) I learned how God is faithful no matter what. His mercy is unfathomable as we constantly sin. His grace has no boundaries. His forgiveness is never-ending. His love is infinite. He wants to bless His people, and He will as long as you obey His commands. Knowing this gives me confidence moving forward with His plans for me.

Day 2

2) I learned I need Him more, I need to stay in His word and stay close to Him, and that I need to depend on Him more, pray more, and listen for Him more. I draw closer to God as I implement all this.

Day 3

3) I was more cognizant of other people in my life and of their needs. I thought of helping others more. I tried to do His will more. He was definitely in my thoughts more this year.

Day 4

4) I value the sacrifice Jesus made for me more, especially as I understand OT life more. What Jesus did for us on the cross is integral to who we are as Christians, and it needs to be impressed upon us more at church. When you finally grasp his sacrifice, your faith will grow accordingly. I’m more forgiving of others.

Day 5

5) I don’t speculate too far in the future because only God knows His ultimate plans for me. Right now, I’m just sticking to my current job until it’s time to move on. I’m sticking to my writings. I’m sticking to my hobbies. I’m raising my kids. Taking care of my husband, cats, and dogs. Living life according to His will.

Day 6

6) God is faithful. Everything happens in His timing. God does not forsake you. God has your life under control, even if you don’t. Everyone needs that encouragement.

Concluding thoughts to BSF’s People of the Promised Land 1

I enjoyed BSF’s People of the Promised Land 1. In church, we don’t spend a lot of time in the Old Testament, especially Joshua. It seems Moses is always central, but if it weren’t for Joshua, God’s people never would have made it to the Promised Land. It was wonderful to read all about Joshua, study some of the minor characters around him, such as Joab and Jeroboam — all of whom played a role in God’s history. Women of the Old Testament, such as Ruth and Abigail, were my favorite parts — probably because they were women and were intriguing characters. I just wish were were doing BSF’s People of the Promised Land 2 next year. I never understood the need to switch from Old Testament to New Testament every year. To me, do what makes sense no matter where in the Bible it is.

Thank you to all who shared with me this study. I love reading your comments, answering your questions, and learning what you’re learning. This forum gives me great joy and to see God grow it has been a blessing.

What will be happening this summer

This summer, I’ve decided to change the format again. Last summer, I did devotionals and prayers. This summer, I want to focus on the basics and will be writing more traditional blog posts on topics such as how to study the bible, who is God, who is Jesus, and is the Bible true. I will also be writing articles for those who are further along in their walk with God, such as how to go deeper in the Bible, what is the Bible telling me, and what is my responsibility as a believer. I am unsure how many times these will be posted as I intend to enjoy my break as well, spend time outside, and spend time with family. Furthermore, these articles will take me longer to write. The goal, however, will be 2-3 a week.

I wish everyone one a blessed and relaxing summer, full of memories and recharging, and I look forward to the Book of Acts next year!

BSF’s Future Studies Schedule

2019-20: Acts of the Apostles
2020-21: Genesis
2021-22: People of the Promised Land II
2022-beyond: To be determined

Side Note: Acts will be the first study I will be repeating. I have the old Acts questions still on my website, and as of now, am unsure if I will remove them. Here’s the dilemma: some of you may want to compare notes from the last time we did Acts (as I’m sure BSF will change the questions to fit their new format). However, for those searching for my updated questions, I don’t want to cause confusion. Input would be greatly appreciated!

Hey all!

I just wanted to let you know I am taking a couple of weeks off from blogging before the BSF’s study of the Book of Acts begins. I’ll leave you with a beautiful picture to contemplate where it may take you.

Have a good rest of your summer!

Keeping with tradition, if you could post your start date to help others find your group that would be much appreciated!

Post your class time, day you start, and location if you know it!

Thanks in advance!

Keeping to tradition, BSF, or Bible Study International, is alternating an Old Testament study with a New Testament study. Last year, we took a look at People of the Promised Land, starting with Joshua and ending with Solomon. This year, we’re going to the New Testament with the study of the Book of Acts.

THE BOOK OF ACTS

The book of Acts tells the story of the founding of the early church right after Jesus’ death, starting with Jesus’ ascent into heaven and ending with Paul’s imprisonment in Rome. Sandwiched between two colossal books of the Bible, the book of John and the book of Romans, Acts connects the two nicely.

OUTLINE OF BOOK OF ACTS

• Chapters 1-7 shows the church in Jerusalem and includes Pentecost
• Chapters 8-12 focus on Judea and Samaria
• Chapters 13-28 show the spread of the Christian religion all throughout the Roman Empire

Scholars attribute the writer of Acts to the apostle Luke. The book of Acts reads like a novel with adventure tale after adventure tale, full of riots, shipwrecks, and prisons. The place where Acts was written is not named, but is generally accepted as Rome since that is where the book ends. The events take place from 30 or 33 AD when Jesus died to about 61-63 AD.

The first 12 chapters follows Peter. The rest of the book of Acts follows Paul, or Saul, and his conversion and acceptance as one of the first Christian missionaries. We get to travel all over the Roman world (which means lots of maps on my end!) where we’ll experience the ancient Roman world, as well as visit famous cities of the Bible, such as Corinth, Ephesus, and Philippi where Paul wrote letters to the early church and that are in later parts of the Bible.

We will also read important speeches by Paul, Peter, and others as they begin to spread the Gospel to the known world.

WHAT TO EXPECT HERE AT ATOZMOMM.COM

Here, I’ll do my usual, summary, question answers, and then analysis at the end. I love maps so expect a ton of those. I love history so expect a ton of fun historical facts.

One note: This will be my first repeat year of BSF’s studies. I am leaving my old Acts study answers up so you can compare if you so desire. These will be differentiated by “BSF Acts 2019/2020.” The old ones are under “BSF Acts 2012.” If you are Googling, you may land on the old questions so be sure to check my site often to ensure you’re on the correct one.

Summary of Acts 1:1-4:

Luke (the writer of Acts) tells Theophilus that he previously wrote (in the book of Luke) about Jesus’s actions and teachings up to the day he ascended to Heaven after instructing the apostles through the Holy Spirit.  Jesus gave proofs to the apostles that he was alive after he had been crucified, and Jesus continued to appear before them for 40 days, speaking about God’s kingdom.  On one occasion, Jesus instructed the apostles to not leave Jerusalem until they received the gift God has promised.

Summary of Luke 24:13-49:

Two men were walking along the road to Emmaus when Jesus appeared to them after he was crucified. The men did not recognize Jesus who then told Jesus about his own death. Jesus responded by admonishes them for not believing the prophets when they spoke of Jesus’s death.  Jesus then explains the scriptures (the OT) to them concerning himself (basically, how his life, death, and resurrection crowned centuries of God’s work). Jesus stayed with them, broke bread with them, and he was recognized. However, he disappeared after that. They told the 11 disciples all that had happened.

Jesus then appears before the disciples in Jerusalem. The apostles are frightened and Jesus asks why they don’t believe it’s him.  “Look at my hands and my feet.  It is I…” and Jesus showed his hands and feet where he had been pierced on the cross.  He ate with them and reiterated how every prophecy must be fulfilled from the Old Testament.  Then Jesus opened their minds so they could understand how he must suffer, die, and rise again; forgiveness of sins will be preached.  But first, Jesus will send them what God has promised so they must remain in Jerusalem until they have been clothed with power from on high.

Jesus led them to Bethany where he blessed the disciples and arose into Heaven.  The disciples worshipped him and returned to Jerusalem where they remained, praising God at His temple.

BSF Study Questions Acts Lesson 1, Day 2: Acts 1:1-4, Luke 24:13-49

3) Personally. Jesus appears to his disciples and other believers and continues to teach them and put the pieces of his death together for them.

4) Part personal Question. My answer: Jesus still needed to teach his disciples, and he needed to have proof, or witnesses, that he was risen in the form of testimony. He also needed to explain about the Holy Spirit. I’d want to know when the Second Coming was, and I’d ask about everything else I don’ know!

5) Personal Question. My answer: It’s helpful to know that this life and troubles are temporary, that there is a better place awaiting — a place with God, Jesus, and no evil in the world.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions Acts Lesson 1, Day 2: Acts 1:1-4, Luke 24:13-49

Acts opens fairly simply with Luke casually talking about Jesus hanging out with the disciples after his resurrection. No big deal.

End Notes BSF Study Questions Acts Lesson 1, Day 2: Acts 1:1-4, Luke 24:13-49

Yay! First Lesson of the Study of Acts and Letters of the Apostles. So exciting!

Acts 1:1-4:

Luke, the writer of Acts, was a physician (Colossians 4:14), a Gentile, and a devoted follower of Paul (from the text of Acts, and Colossians 4:14, Philemon 24, and 2 Timothy 4:11). That’s about all we know about him.

Theophilus (Greek meaning lover of God) is the person to whom Luke is writing the books of Acts (and the book of Luke previously) to. He could have been a Christian or a Roman official. We don’t know anything else about him, although he may have held office since Luke calls him “most excellent.”

One theory has Acts as a defense book on Paul’s behalf since Luke was with Paul in Jerusalem (Acts 21:17) and went to Rome with him (Acts 27:1).

Fun Fact:  “Ancient books were generally written on papyrus scrolls. It was practical to have a scroll about thirty-five feet in length. When it got any longer it got too bulky to carry around. This physical limitation has determined the length of many books of the Bible.” (Boice) Luke used two scrolls to tell his story, and one we call “The Gospel of Luke” and the other we call “The Book of Acts.”

Acts spans a period of about 30 years, and takes us up to about A.D. 60 or 61, with Paul in Rome waiting to appear before Caesar Nero. This same Nero began his infamous persecutions of Christians in A.D. 64.

Note how Jesus rose and spoke to the disciples with the power of the Holy Spirit.  If the glorified, resurrected Jesus needed and relied on the Holy Spirit, so should we. This will be an on-going theme throughout Acts that we need the Holy Spirit to operate as well.

The Power of the Father (or Holy Spirit) is:

• Reliable
• Belongs to all
• Received by faith
• Requires patience

Luke 24:13-49:

These 2 anonymous disciples were sad that Jesus had not redeemed Israel. Jesus appeared to set them right. They indeed were redeemed! Jesus teaches them:

• He had to suffer
• The cross was necessary
• The Messiah Moses predicted

God’s word can burn on your heart like it burned on theirs.

Jesus had to ascend to heaven so that confidence would be put in the power and ministry of the Holy Spirit, not in the geographical presence of Jesus.

Summary of Acts 1:4-8:

Jesus tells his disciples one day after his resurrection and during the 40 day period of his teaching (before he ascends to heaven) to not leave Jerusalem to preach the Good News but to wait to be baptized by the Holy Spirit.  The disciples ask Jesus if he is going to restore the kingdom of Israel, and Jesus basically says it’s not for you to know the time, but it is for you to be his witnesses to the world.

BSF Study Questions Acts Lesson 1, Day 3: Acts 1:4-8

6) “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promied, which you hae heard me speak about.” The Spirit will empower them to be his witnesses in Jerusalem and the entire world.

7a) All the difference. You can do nothing without Christ.

b) Personal Question. My answer: God has guided my every step and gotten me to this place in my life right now where I can live the life He has for me.

Conclusions to BSF Study Questions Acts Lesson 1, Day 3: Acts 1:4-8

Great emphasis on the fact that we can do nothing without God, and that God does not leave us to our own devices to do His will. He empowers us through the Holy Spirit with every step we take every day no matter our circumstances.

End Notes BSF Study Questions Acts Lesson 1, Day 3: Acts 1:4-8

Fun Fact: This is the last time the disciples see Jesus in His physical body, until they went to heaven to be with Him forever.

The disciples had asked when Jesus would restore Israel many times before, but it had a special relevance now. They knew that Jesus had instituted the New Covenant (Luke 22:20). They also knew that the restoration of the kingdom to Israel was part of the New Covenant (as seen in Jeremiah 23:1-8, Ezekiel 36:16-30, Ezekiel 37:21-28). Jesus tells them it is not for them to know.

Why not reveal God’s plan to the disciples?

• It was wise for Jesus not to outline His plan over the next 2,000 years. It was good for the disciples to not know that the full restoration of the kingdom to Israel that they hoped would happen soon would not come for some 2,000 years. It might overly discourage them in the work they had to do right then and might make them think less of the aspect of the kingdom of God that was present with them.

The progress of the spread of the gospel message from Jerusalem, to Judea and Samaria, and then to the end of the earth becomes the outline of Acts.

• Acts 1-7 describes the gospel in Jerusalem.
• Acts 8-12 speak of the gospel in Judea and Samaria.
• Acts 13-28 tells of the gospel going to the end of the earth.

Jerusalem was where Jesus was executed at the word of an angry mob.

Judea rejected His ministry.

Samaria was regarded as a wasteland of impure half-breeds.

In the uttermost parts of the earth, the Gentiles were seen by some Jews of that day as nothing better than fuel for the fires of Hell.

Yet God empowers all through the Holy Spirit.

Summary of Acts 1:4-11:

Jesus gives the disciples a command to not leave Jerusalem until they have received the gift from His Father, which is the Holy Spirit.  The disciples asked Jesus if he was going to restore the kingdom of Israel and Jesus says it is not for them to know the Father’s timing; it is for them to be witnesses for him in Judea, Jerusalem, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

Then Jesus was taken up before their eyes into heaven.  Two men in white suddenly appeared next to the disciples and said this same Jesus will come back again in the same way you have seen him ascend.  (Basically, quit gawking and start talking!  You have much work to do!).

Summary of John 14:1-3:

Jesus assures his disciples he is preparing a place in heaven for them to be with him.

John 14:16-18:

Jesus will ask God to give the disciples the Holy Spirit to be with them instead of him physically to live inside of them.

John 16:12-15:

The Holy Spirit will guide them in what to say and do and bring God and Jesus Glory.

BSF Study Questions Acts Lesson 1, Day 4: Acts 1:4-11, John 14:1-3, 16-18; 16:12-15

8 ) So that the Holy Spirit could come in his place. That way all believers can be with Jesus.

9) “Jesus will come back int eh same way you have seen him go into heaven.”

10) That they would not be alone and forsaken after Jesus left them.

Conclusions to BSF Study Questions Acts Lesson 1, Day 4: Acts 1:4-11, John 14:1-3, 16-18; 16:12-15

I would definitely encourage you to look back at the previous Acts study and see the differences. This lesson especially has been vastly modified from when I first did this study the last go-around. Here’s my commentary from back then HERE We had to look up way more Bible verses back in the day.

End Notes to BSF Study Questions Acts Lesson 1, Day 4: Acts 1:4-11, John 14:1-3, 16-18; 16:12-15

Acts 1:9-11

Jesus was taken up from them as He blessed them (Luke 24:50). As He slowly disappeared into the sky, surrounded by a cloud they continued to gaze upward.

The cloud of glory (called the Shekinah) that is associated with the presence of God in the Old and New Testaments.

It was important for Jesus to leave His disciples in this manner. He could have simply vanished to heaven and the Father’s presence in a secret sort of way. But by ascending in this manner, Jesus wanted His followers to know that He was gone for good.

John 16:6-7 Jesus says, “You are filled with grief.  But I tell you the truth:  It is for your good that I am going away.  Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you.”

Morgan speculated that the two men were possibly Moses and Elijah. It seems best to say they were angels.

This same Jesus reminds us that the Jesus ascended to heaven and seated at the right hand of God the Father is the same Jesus of the Gospels. He is the same Jesus forever and always.

John verses

This entire focus is being with Jesus again, who is preparing a place out of his great love for us. Heaven is heaven because Jesus is there. The Holy Spirit reveals Jesus to us every day.

Summary of Acts 1:12-26:

The Eleven disciples returned to Jerusalem from Mount Olives after witnessing Jesus ascend to heaven.  Along with women, Mary mother of Jesus, and Jesus’ brothers, they prayed constantly. While waiting for the Holy Spirit to descend upon them, Peter leads the believers (120 in number at this time) in choosing one to replace Judas Iscariot as the Scriptures dictate (Psalm 109:8).  So they choose one who has been with them from the beginning by praying and casting lots.  Matthias is chosen and becomes the new twelfth disciple.

BSF Study Questions Acts Lesson 1, Day 5: Acts 1:12-26

11) Part Personal Question. My answer: Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, Judas son of James, women, Mary the mother of Jesus, and Jesus’s brothers. They are coming together to support one another and mourn together.

12) They chose a replacement because of the Bible (Pslam 109:8) They prayed before casting lots. They wanted someone credible who had been with Jesus since the beginning.

13) Part personal Question. My answer: He had all of the disciples together, so no one had to bear the death of Jesus alone. We’re stronger together so the disciples could draw upon each other’s strength for the coming days. All prayed together. The replacement was chosen together. There is no strife right now.

Conclusions to BSF Study Questions Acts Lesson 1, Day 5: Acts 1:12-26

I love how everyone retreated in prayer. Great lesson for when we suffer a loss. God will comfort you.

End Notes to BSF Study Questions Acts Lesson 1, Day 5: Acts 1:12-26

Note the disciples obeyed Jesus here: they did return to Jerusalem and await the Holy Spirit.

Acts 1:15 tells us that there were about 120 present.

Peter as Leader of the Disciples

Peter took a natural leadership role among the disciples

• Peter’s words show wisdom we did not often see in him before. He began by noting that Judas didn’t spoil God’s plan, he fulfilled it. This is something that only wise and mature disciples can see in the aftermath of evil. Luke’s historical note calls attention to how Judas died. Matthew 27:5 says that Judas hanged himself, but apparently he failed in the attempt, fell, and was killed by the impact of falling from the tree in the Field of Blood.

Peter, quoting from two separate Psalms, showed why God wanted them to choose another disciple to officially replace Judas.

Reliance on God’s Word

This is the first time in the New Testament we read that Peter quoted Scripture.

Desire for God’s Will

Because of the principle of the quoted Scripture, they decided to replace Judas because they believe it is what Jesus wanted, not because it is what they wanted.

Doing What Jesus Would Do

When Jesus chose His disciples, He prayed (Luke 6:12-13). The disciples, following Jesus, prayed for wisdom to know who the Lord would add to their number.

The Casting of Lots

This is the last time the Bible mentions the casting of lots, which is an Old Testament method to discern God’s will. Now that we have the Holy Spirit, we don’t need lots.

The casting of lots may be an imperfect way to discern God’s will, but it is much better than the methods many Christians use today – relying on emotions, on circumstances, or feelings, or carnal desires, and so forth.

Fun Fact: Except for Peter and John, none of the original twelve are mentioned again after Acts 1.

Revelation 21:14 brings up an interesting question. It tells us that each of the twelve foundations of the New Jerusalem has the name of one of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. When we get to heaven, it will be interesting to see if the twelfth apostle of the Lamb is Paul or Matthias.

STEPS FOR MAKING BIG DECISIONS IN LIFE AS SEEN IN ACTS 1

• Obey
• In fellowship with others
• Pray
• In the scripture
• God’s will
• Common sense with the guidance of the Holy Spirit
• Do what Jesus would do
• Rely on God

Hey all!

As many of your are ramping up your study for Bible Study Fellowship’s (BSF’s) Study of Acts & Letters of the Apostles, I thought I’d gather some great resources for you.

BSF’s Website:

http://www.bsfinternational.org

BSF’s Study of Acts:

https://www.bsfinternational.org/studies/our-studies/acts-of-the-apostles

BSF’s Questions, Notes, Lecture, & Audio Access:

https://www.mybsf.org/

BSF’s Prayer Guide for Acts:

http://www.bsfprayer.org or https://bsfprayer.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/PrayerGuide2019.pdf

ACTS prayer model here:

ACTS prayer model

BSF’s Prayer Wall:

Prayer wall

Summary of Acts 2:1-13:

On the day of Pentecost the 120 were all in one place (presumably praying still and waiting for the gift).  A sound like a blowing violent wind came from heaven and filled the house where they were sitting.  They saw tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them.  All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in tongues through the power of the Holy Spirit.

A lot of people in Jerusalem heard this sound and came together to see what was happening.  They were bewildered because each was speaking in his own language.  They asked, “Aren’t these all Galileans?  How is it we hear them in our own language?  What does this mean?”

Some made fun of them and said they were drunk.

BSF Study Questions Act 2 Lesson 2, Day 2: Acts 2:1-13:

3) The disciples heard a sound like the blowing of a violent wind come form heave and fill the house where they were sitting. The saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that spearated and came to rest on them. Then they all began to speak in tongues as the Holy Spirit filled them. Inward reality: God/Jesus was with them. Unseen reality same.

4) Personal Question. My answer: Unsure really. I don’t do a lot of church activities anymore since my kids are older so I’m rarely together with believers for such a unity to take place.

5) This emphasized the power of the Holy Spirit. It proved the power of God as well.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions Act 2 Lesson 2, Day 2: Acts 2:1-13:

This is where we see the speaking of tongues in the Bible, which we think of as weird today, but was normal back then.

End Notes BSF Study Questions Act 2 Lesson 2, Day 2: Acts 2:1-13:

Pentecost was celebrated 50 days after Passover that celebrated the firstfruits of the wheat harvest. Pentecost also marked the day the Law as given to the Jews. They sometimes call Pentecost the Joy of the Law.

• OT Pentecost: Jews received Law.
• NT Pentecost: Church received Holy Spirit

This was the 10th day that the disciples were waiting. The Holy Spirit is promised to us and worth waiting for.

God often comes in a wind:

• Genesis 1:1-2, it is the Spirit of God as the breath/wind of God, blowing over the waters of the newly created earth.
• Genesis 2:7, it is the Spirit of God as the breath/wind of God, blowing life into newly created man.
• In Ezekiel 37:9-10, it is the Spirit of God as the breath/wind of God, moving over the dry bones of Israel bringing them life and strength.

Jesus would baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire (Matthew 3:11).

The idea behind the picture of fire is usually purification, as a refiner uses fire to make pure gold; or fire can burn away what is temporary, leaving only what will last. The filling of the Holy Spirit is not just for abstract power, but for purity.

In certain places in the Old Testament, God showed His special pleasure with a sacrifice by lighting the fire for it Himself – that is, fire from heaven came down and consumed the sacrifice. Here, we see God sending fire from heaven to show His pleasure and power, but upon living sacrifices (Romans 12:1).

In the Old Testament, the Holy Spirit rested on Israel as a nation. Here, the Holy Spirit rests on individuals.

The Speaking of Tongues

Not many homes of that day could hold 120 people. It is far more likely that this upper room was part of the temple courts, which was a huge structure, with porches and colonnades and rooms. The crowd came from people milling about the temple courts.

People from Galilee (Galileans) were known to be uncultured and poor speakers. This was all the more reason to be impressed with their ability to speak eloquently in other languages.

Why speak in tongues?

• Some think that the gift of tongues was given primarily as a sign to unbelievers (1 Corinthians 14:21-22) and as a means to miraculously communicate the gospel in diverse languages. They believe there is no longer the need for this sign, so they regard tongues as a gift no longer present in the church today.
• Others argue that the gift of tongues, while a sign to unbelievers as stated by 1 Corinthians 14:21-22, are primarily a gift of communication between the believer and God (1 Corinthians 14:2, 13-15), and is a gift still given by God today.
• The idea that these disciples communicated to the diverse crowd in tongues is plainly wrong. The crowd had a common language (Greek), and Peter preached a sermon to them in that language! (Acts 2:14-40)
• When tongues is practiced in the corporate life of the church, it must be carefully controlled, and never without an interpretation given by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 14:27-28).
• The ability to pray in an unknown tongue is not a gift given to every believer (1 Corinthians 12:30).
• We should regard the gift of Acts 2 and the gift of tongues in 1 Corinthians as the same, simply because the same term is used for both in the original language (heterais glossais). Also, the verb translated gave them utterance in Acts 2:4 is frequently used in Greek literature in connection with spiritually prompted (ecstatic) speech, not mere translation into other languages.