God’s King (1 Kings 1-2)
It’s a story that begins with both complacency and conspiracy, as old King David seems to have forgotten his role in establishing his successor, and one of his sons is bent on establishing it for himself.
But here’s the thing. Even in the face of David’s lack, and Adonijah’s lust, the Lord is at work. Not once, or twice but fourteen times do we see the word ‘throne’ pop up in these chapters, with the final sentence confirming the Lord’s choice: ‘the kingdom was now established in Solomon’s hands’.
How do we see the Lord establishing his rightful king on the throne? We see it in the conviction of those gathered around David, as their speeches rouse him to action. We see it in David’s dying words to Solomon, as he calls him to obedience. And we see it as enemies to the throne are rightfully swept aside, so that the Lord’s king can rule.
Make no mistake: this is a story that confirms from the get-go that God’s king will sit on the throne. It’s a story that reminds us just how much God is in control of the comings and goings in history. And it’s a story that leads us to consider the King of Kings, the one who ultimately has the rightful rule, not only over one earthly kingdom, but over all the earth.
Consider Him for a moment: No lack, or lust, but instead a lamb, who was slain. No pomp or circumstance, but instead, with full submission, a head bowed to receive a crown of thorns, establishing him as the King who would die for his people. Wherever you are today, consider Him for a moment. Are you chiming with the throng of heaven in worshipping this King above all else? Nothing or no-one else can compare. He alone is worthy.
“Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. In a loud voice they were saying:
‘Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honour and glory and praise!’”
