1 Kings

Author: Unknown

When It Happened: 1015–897 BC

Chapters: 22

Key People: Solomon, Jeroboam, Rehoboam, Elijah

Summary: 1 Kings tells of King Solomon’s reign over Israel. Solomon was greater than all the other kings in riches, honor, and wisdom. And he used those gifts to build the Temple for God. However, Solomon later disobeyed God and did evil in the sight of the Lord. Because of his sin, God would take the kingdom from his son.

Israel was one nation in the beginning of this book. But because of rebellion against God and the sinfulness of man, it ends with a nation divided into two kingdoms, Israel and Judah. God sent prophets, like the great prophet Elijah, to warn both nations of their need to worship and obey the one true God.

About God: God demands obedience and loyalty. The consequences of disobedience to God are very serious.