As he was speaking, suddenly Jonathan the son of Abiathar the priest arrived. "Come in," said Adonijah, "for you are a man of valor. You must be bringing good news." While he was still speakingThis phrase sets the scene in a moment of interruption, indicating urgency and the unfolding of divine providence. The Hebrew root for "speaking" (דָּבַר, dabar) often implies not just casual conversation but the delivery of a message or decree. In the biblical narrative, interruptions often signify a shift in God's plan or the revelation of His will, reminding us that God's timing is perfect and His plans are unstoppable. behold
The Hebrew word "הִנֵּה" (hinneh) is an attention-grabbing term used frequently in Scripture to draw the reader's focus to something significant. It serves as a divine spotlight, indicating that what follows is of great importance. In this context, it signals a pivotal moment in the narrative, as Jonathan's arrival will bring news that alters the course of events. Jonathan the son of Abiathar the priest
Jonathan's identity is crucial. As the son of Abiathar, a priest who served during King David's reign, Jonathan is connected to the religious and political fabric of Israel. Abiathar's lineage ties back to Eli, the priest at Shiloh, and this connection underscores the tension between the priestly line and the emerging monarchy. Historically, Abiathar's support of Adonijah reflects the complex loyalties and power struggles within the kingdom. arrived
The arrival of Jonathan is not just a physical movement but a moment of divine orchestration. The Hebrew verb "בּוֹא" (bo) often implies coming with purpose or mission. In biblical narratives, arrivals often herald the delivery of significant news or the fulfillment of prophecy, reminding us of God's sovereign hand in guiding events. 'Come in,' said Adonijah
Adonijah's invitation to Jonathan reflects his expectation of favorable news. The phrase "Come in" (בּוֹא, bo) is welcoming, yet it also reveals Adonijah's confidence and assumption of control. This moment is rich with dramatic irony, as the reader knows that Adonijah's expectations will soon be overturned by the true unfolding of God's plan. for you are a valiant man
Adonijah's description of Jonathan as "valiant" (חַיִל, chayil) speaks to Jonathan's reputation and character. The term often denotes strength, capability, and honor. In the biblical context, being "valiant" is not just about physical prowess but also about moral integrity and leadership. Adonijah's acknowledgment of Jonathan's valor is ironic, as it contrasts with the impending revelation that will challenge Adonijah's ambitions. and you bring good news
The expectation of "good news" (בְּשׂוֹרָה, besorah) is central to this verse. In the Hebrew tradition, the bearer of good news was often seen as a herald of divine favor or victory. However, the irony here is palpable, as the anticipated "good news" for Adonijah will actually be the confirmation of Solomon's anointing as king. This serves as a reminder that God's definition of "good" often transcends human expectations and aligns with His ultimate purposes. Persons / Places / Events 1. JonathanThe son of Abiathar the priest, Jonathan is a messenger in this account. His arrival is significant as it brings news that impacts the unfolding events surrounding the succession of King David. 2. Abiathar the PriestA priest during King David's reign, Abiathar was initially loyal to David but later supported Adonijah's claim to the throne, which was against David's wishes. 3. AdonijahThe son of King David who attempted to declare himself king without David's approval. His actions set the stage for the conflict over the rightful succession to the throne. 4. King DavidThe reigning king at the time, whose decision regarding his successor is central to the events in this chapter. 5. The Succession CrisisThe broader event in which there is a struggle for the throne of Israel, highlighting issues of authority, loyalty, and divine will. Teaching Points The Importance of Godly CounselJonathan's role as a messenger reminds us of the importance of seeking and delivering truthful and godly counsel. In our lives, we should prioritize advice that aligns with God's will. The Consequences of AmbitionAdonijah's ambition led him to act against God's chosen plan. This serves as a warning against unchecked ambition and the importance of aligning our desires with God's purposes. The Role of Divine ProvidenceThe unfolding events demonstrate God's sovereignty in establishing leadership. We are reminded to trust in God's timing and plan for our lives, even when circumstances seem uncertain. Loyalty and FaithfulnessAbiathar's divided loyalty highlights the need for steadfast faithfulness to God's anointed leaders. In our spiritual journey, we should remain loyal to God's direction and leadership. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Jonathan's role as a messenger in 1 Kings 1:42 reflect the importance of delivering truthful news in our own lives? 2. In what ways can unchecked ambition, as seen in Adonijah's actions, lead us away from God's plan? How can we guard against this? 3. How does the concept of divine providence in the succession crisis encourage us to trust in God's plan for our own lives? 4. What lessons can we learn from Abiathar's divided loyalty, and how can we apply these lessons to our spiritual walk today? 5. How do the events in 1 Kings 1:42 connect with other biblical instances of leadership transitions, and what can we learn from these connections about God's sovereignty? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Samuel 4:12-18This passage describes another instance of a messenger bringing significant news, drawing a parallel to Jonathan's role in delivering news to Adonijah. 2 Samuel 15:27-29Abiathar's involvement in King David's reign and his loyalty are highlighted, providing background to his later actions in supporting Adonijah. 1 Kings 1:5-10Details Adonijah's self-exaltation and attempt to seize the throne, setting the context for Jonathan's arrival with news. People Abiathar, Abishag, Absalom, Adonijah, Bathsheba, Benaiah, Cherethites, David, Haggith, Jehoiada, Joab, Jonathan, Kerethites, Nathan, Pelethites, Rei, Shimei, Solomon, Zadok, ZeruiahPlaces En-rogel, Gihon, Jerusalem, Serpent's StoneTopics Abiathar, Abi'athar, Adonijah, Adoni'jah, Arrived, Bearest, Behold, Bring, Bringest, Bringing, Faith, Jonathan, Lips, News, Priest, Spake, Speaking, Spoke, Tidings, Valiant, Valour, Worthy, YetDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Kings 1:42 8369 worthiness 1 Kings 1:5-53 5087 David, reign of 1 Kings 1:41-43 5595 trumpet Library David Appointing Solomon
'Then king David answered and said, Call me Bath-sheba. And she came into the king's presence, and stood before the king. 29. And the king sware, and said, As the Lord liveth, that hath redeemed my soul out of all distress, 30. Even as I sware unto thee by the Lord God of Israel, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne in my stead; even so will I certainly do this day. 31. Then Bath-sheba bowed with her face to the earth, and did reverence to the king, …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureGihon, the Same with the Fountain of Siloam.
I. In 1 Kings 1:33,38, that which is, in the Hebrew, "Bring ye Solomon to Gihon: and they brought him to Gihon"; is rendered by the Chaldee, "Bring ye him to Siloam: and they brought him to Siloam." Where Kimchi thus; "Gihon is Siloam, and it is called by a double name. And David commanded, that they should anoint Solomon at Gihon for a good omen, to wit, that, as the waters of the fountain are everlasting, so might his kingdom be." So also the Jerusalem writers; "They do not anoint the king, but …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica Adonijah
BY REV. ALFRED ROWLAND, D.D., LL.B. It is notorious that the sons of devout men sometimes prove a curse to their parents, and bring dishonour on the cause of God. When Eve rejoiced over her first-born, she little suspected that passions were sleeping within him which would impel him to slay his own brother; and the experience of the first mother has been repeated, though in different forms, in all lands and in all ages. Isaac's heart was rent by the deceit of Jacob, and by the self-will of Esau. …
George Milligan—Men of the Bible; Some Lesser-Known Whether Prayer Should be Vocal?
Objection 1: It would seem that prayer ought not to be vocal. As stated above [3025](A[4]), prayer is addressed chiefly to God. Now God knows the language of the heart. Therefore it is useless to employ vocal prayer. Objection 2: Further, prayer should lift man's mind to God, as stated above (A[1], ad 2). But words, like other sensible objects, prevent man from ascending to God by contemplation. Therefore we should not use words in our prayers. Objection 3: Further, prayer should be offered to God …
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica The Reign of David.
2 Sam.; 1 Chron. Chs. 11-29; 1 K 1:1-2:11. His Reign over Judah. The reign of David is divided into two parts. The first part was over Judah, with the capitol at Hebron, and lasted seven and one-half years. During this period Ishbosheth, son of Saul, reigned over Israel in the North. It is probable that both of these kings were regarded as vassals of the Philistines and paid tribute. On account of rival leaders, there was constant warfare between these two rival kings. The kingdom of Judah, however, …
Josiah Blake Tidwell—The Bible Period by Period The Fact of the Redeemer's Return was Typified in the Lives of Joseph and Solomon.
In the Old Testament there are numerous references to the Second Coming of Christ, references both direct and typical, but in every instance it was His return to the earth which was in view. The secret coming of Christ into the air, to catch up the saints to Himself, was an event quite unknown to the Old Testament prophets, an event kept secret until revealed by God to the apostle Paul who, when writing to the Corinthians upon this particular aspect of our subject, said, "Behold, I show you a mystery …
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return Of Justification by Faith. Both the Name and the Reality Defined.
Sections. 1. Connection between the doctrine of Justification and that of Regeneration. The knowledge of this doctrine very necessary for two reasons. 2. For the purpose of facilitating the exposition of it, the terms are explained. 1. What it is to be justified in the sight of God. 2. To be justified by works. 3. To be justified by faith. Definition. 3. Various meanings of the term Justification. 1. To give praise to God and truth. 2. To make a vain display of righteousness. 3. To impute righteousness …
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion Prov. 22:06 the Duties of Parents
"Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it."--Prov. 22:6. I SUPPOSE that most professing Christians are acquainted with the text at the head of this page. The sound of it is probably familiar to your ears, like an old tune. It is likely you have heard it, or read it, talked of it, or quoted it, many a time. Is it not so? But, after all, how little is the substance of this text regarded! The doctrine it contains appears scarcely known, the duty it puts …
John Charles Ryle—The Upper Room: Being a Few Truths for the Times Tit. 2:06 Thoughts for Young Men
WHEN St. Paul wrote his Epistle to Titus about his duty as a minister, he mentioned young men as a class requiring peculiar attention. After speaking of aged men and aged women, and young women, he adds this pithy advice, "Young men likewise exhort to be sober-minded" (Tit. 2:6). I am going to follow the Apostle's advice. I propose to offer a few words of friendly exhortation to young men. I am growing old myself, but there are few things I remember so well as the days of my youth. I have a most …
John Charles Ryle—The Upper Room: Being a Few Truths for the Times Christ a Complete Saviour:
OR, THE INTERCESSION OF CHRIST, AND WHO ARE PRIVILEGED IN IT. BY JOHN BUNYAN Advertisement by the Editor. However strange it may appear, it is a solemn fact, that the heart of man, unless prepared by a sense of the exceeding sinfulness of sin, rejects Christ as a complete Saviour. The pride of human nature will not suffer it to fall, as helpless and utterly undone, into the arms of Divine mercy. Man prefers a partial Saviour; one who had done so much, that, with the sinner's aid, the work might be …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 Kings
The book[1] of Kings is strikingly unlike any modern historical narrative. Its comparative brevity, its curious perspective, and-with some brilliant exceptions--its relative monotony, are obvious to the most cursory perusal, and to understand these things is, in large measure, to understand the book. It covers a period of no less than four centuries. Beginning with the death of David and the accession of Solomon (1 Kings i., ii.) it traverses his reign with considerable fulness (1 Kings iii.-xi.), …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links 1 Kings 1:42 NIV1 Kings 1:42 NLT1 Kings 1:42 ESV1 Kings 1:42 NASB1 Kings 1:42 KJV
1 Kings 1:42 Commentaries
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