1 Kings 11:33

For they have forsaken Me to worship Ashtoreth the goddess of the Sidonians, Chemosh the god of the Moabites, and Milcom the god of the Ammonites. They have not walked in My ways, nor done what is right in My eyes, nor kept My statutes and judgments, as Solomon's father David did.

Study Bible

For they have forsaken Me
The phrase "forsaken Me" is rooted in the Hebrew word "עזב" (azav), which means to leave, abandon, or desert. This word conveys a deep sense of betrayal and neglect. In the historical context, Israel's forsaking of God was not merely a passive act but an active turning away from the covenant relationship established with Yahweh. This abandonment is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, highlighting the Israelites' struggle with faithfulness. From a conservative Christian perspective, this serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of turning away from God and the importance of steadfastness in faith.

and worshiped Ashtoreth the goddess of the Sidonians
"Ashtoreth" refers to a prominent Canaanite goddess associated with love and war, often linked to the planet Venus. The worship of Ashtoreth, known in other cultures as Astarte or Ishtar, involved rituals that were abhorrent to the Israelites, including temple prostitution. The Sidonians, a Phoenician people, were known for their maritime trade and cultural influence, which included religious practices. The adoption of Ashtoreth worship by the Israelites signifies a profound spiritual decline and syncretism, where the purity of worship to Yahweh was compromised. This highlights the constant temptation of God's people to conform to surrounding cultures, a warning still relevant today.

Chemosh the god of the Moabites
"Chemosh" was the national deity of the Moabites, often associated with the practice of child sacrifice, as suggested by archaeological findings and biblical references. The Moabites were descendants of Lot, and their worship practices were in direct opposition to the worship of Yahweh. The mention of Chemosh underscores the severity of Israel's idolatry, as they embraced gods that demanded such detestable practices. This serves as a reminder of the destructive nature of idolatry and the moral decay it brings.

and Milcom the god of the Ammonites
"Milcom," also known as Molech, was the god of the Ammonites, another nation descended from Lot. Like Chemosh, the worship of Milcom involved child sacrifice, a practice strictly forbidden by God. The Ammonites were often in conflict with Israel, and their religious practices were seen as abominations. The inclusion of Milcom in this verse highlights the extent of Israel's spiritual adultery, as they not only adopted foreign gods but also the most heinous of their practices. This serves as a stark warning against compromising one's faith and values.

They have not walked in My ways
The phrase "walked in My ways" is a metaphor for living according to God's commandments and statutes. The Hebrew word "הלך" (halak) means to walk or go, implying a continuous, habitual lifestyle. In biblical terms, walking in God's ways signifies obedience and alignment with His will. The failure to walk in God's ways indicates a deliberate choice to pursue a path contrary to His commands. This serves as a reminder of the importance of daily, intentional living in accordance with God's Word.

nor done what is right in My eyes
"Right in My eyes" refers to actions and behaviors that align with God's standards of righteousness and justice. The Hebrew word "ישר" (yashar) means straight or upright, emphasizing moral integrity. The Israelites' failure to do what is right in God's eyes reflects a departure from His ethical and moral standards. This phrase challenges believers to evaluate their actions and motivations, ensuring they align with divine principles rather than human standards.

nor kept My statutes and ordinances
"Statutes and ordinances" refer to the specific laws and decrees given by God to govern the moral, ceremonial, and civil life of Israel. The Hebrew words "חק" (choq) and "משפט" (mishpat) denote decrees and judgments, respectively. These were not mere suggestions but binding commands meant to set Israel apart as a holy nation. The failure to keep these statutes and ordinances signifies a breach of the covenant and a rejection of God's authority. This serves as a call to uphold God's laws as a reflection of His character and will.

as David the father of Solomon did
David is often held as the standard of faithfulness and devotion to God, despite his personal failings. His heart was aligned with God's, and he sought to uphold His commandments. The reference to David serves as a contrast to Solomon's actions and a reminder of the legacy of faithfulness expected of Israel's leaders. For conservative Christians, David's example is a testament to the power of repentance and the importance of a heart fully devoted to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who turned away from God by allowing idolatry in the kingdom, influenced by his foreign wives.

2. Ashtoreth
A goddess worshiped by the Sidonians, associated with fertility and war, representing the idolatry that Solomon permitted.

3. Chemosh
The god of Moab, often associated with human sacrifice, highlighting the severity of Israel's idolatry.

4. Milcom
The god of the Ammonites, another foreign deity that Solomon allowed to be worshiped, contrary to God's commands.

5. David
Solomon's father, who, despite his own failings, is remembered for his heart for God and adherence to God's statutes.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Compromise
Solomon's downfall began with small compromises, such as marrying foreign wives, which led to greater sins like idolatry.

The Influence of Relationships
The people we surround ourselves with can significantly impact our spiritual walk, as seen in Solomon's life.

The Importance of Obedience
God desires obedience to His statutes and judgments, as exemplified by David, despite his imperfections.

The Consequences of Idolatry
Turning away from God to serve other gods leads to spiritual and often physical consequences, as seen in Israel's history.

Legacy and Leadership
Solomon's failure serves as a warning to leaders about the long-term impact of their spiritual decisions on their people.

Bible Study Questions

1. What small compromises in your life could lead to larger spiritual issues, as seen in Solomon's account?

2. How can you ensure that your relationships encourage you to walk in God's ways rather than lead you astray?

3. In what ways can you practice obedience to God's statutes in your daily life, following the example of David?

4. What modern "idols" might be competing for your attention and devotion, and how can you address them?

5. How does Solomon's account challenge you to consider the legacy of your faith and leadership within your family or community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:3-5
This passage outlines the first and second commandments, prohibiting the worship of other gods and the making of idols, which Solomon violated.

Deuteronomy 17:17
Warns Israelite kings against taking many wives, which could lead their hearts astray, as happened with Solomon.

2 Samuel 7:14-15
God's promise to David about his descendants, emphasizing the importance of obedience to maintain God's favor.

1 Kings 3:3
Initially, Solomon loved the Lord and walked in the statutes of David, showing a stark contrast to his later actions.

Matthew 6:24
Jesus teaches that one cannot serve two masters, paralleling Solomon's divided heart between God and idols.