I Kings Chapter 5
Please read: I Kings 5 –
We see in this chapter that Solomon clearly understood that his father David had laid the groundwork for the building of the temple in every way possible. David had fought all the battles that needed to be fought to pave the way for a peaceful existence in Israel. He had also gathered materials for his son, and he had connected with a man who would be very instrumental in supplying the large number of timbers needed for construction. That man was the king of Tyre, a city that was a coastal city and north of Israel.
It is beautiful to read that Solomon recognized that all the work and all the accomplishments that had preceded this moment was brought about because of the purpose of God. Solomon understood why his father had not been permitted to build the temple. David had been surrounded by enemies and with God’s strength was able to defeat them. Understanding the scope of his father’s role, Solomon made this very important statement, “until the LORD put them under the soles of his feet.” Solomon was continuing the work that his father had started – the building of God’s temple.
Let's Reflect
1. What had the relationship been like between King David of Israel and King Hiram of Tyre?
2. In his message and request to Hiram, Solomon stated in verse 4 why it was now time to build the temple for God. Why was it the right time?
3. How would the timbers get from Tyre to Jerusalem?
4. Solomon was not going to just take the timbers from Tyre, but he made a treaty with Hiram that he would give him several things in exchange for the timbers. What was the agreement?
5. According to verse 8 what type of timber would be sent to be used in the building of the temple?
6. It took a lot of men to do the preparation work necessary to build the temple. There were many who were involved with the timber, but there were others who were involved in another great task. What was that task?
7. Solomon created great organization and direction for the people to complete the task. And there was great cooperation between two foreign kings. According to verse 7, what did Hiram think of Solomon?
