Sermon Text: 1 Kings 2:13-46
Theme: The Lord establishes the kingdom of His anointed despite the opposition of his enemies, guaranteeing that all who scorns the king’s mercy will be dealt with justly.
Structure/points: After Solomon’s coronation and Adonijah’s failed coup attempt, it was clear among the people of God that the Lord had established Solomon as king. Rebels had been shown mercy, but they were commanded to serve the king whom the Lord had chosen. When they chose to scorn the mercy shown to them, they suffered greatly. From this passage, we are reminded that the kingdom is the Lord’s, and He gives it to the one whom He has chosen. While mercy is offered by the Lord’s anointed to his enemies, if that mercy is ignored, then it will be withdrawn and judgment occur. And no resistance to that kingdom will prevail because it is the Almighty God of the Bible who builds the kingdom.
- Adonijah’s renewed treachery (vv. 13-25)
- Abiathar’s prophesied exile (vv. 26-27)
- Joab’s delayed execution (vv. 28-35)
- Shimei’s self-indictment (vv. 36-46)