A WHOLE MAN

  Reflection: What makes for a good king? In the books of Kings, we see a recurring contrast: kings who "did what was right in the sight of the LORD" and walked in the ways of David, and those who "did what was evil in the sight of the LORD" and followed the ways of Jeroboam (1 Kings 15:3; 2 Kings 17:21). This contrast not only serves as a theological framework for understanding the kings' reigns, but it also illustrates the deeper biblical themes of covenant faithfulness and rebellion. A good king, according to God’s standard, is one who upholds His covenant, leads the people in righteousness, and fosters worship of the true God. In contrast, a bad king follows the path of idolatry, disobedience, and pride, as seen in the reigns of kings like Jeroboam and Ahab. As you read through the Kings, reflect on the spiritual condition of each ruler, recognizing that the actions and heart of each king point to the greater need for a perfect King, Jesus Christ, who would ...

Reflection: Originally a single book, Kings was divided into two parts in the Jewish tradition with the printing of the Bomberg Rabbinic Bible (Venice, 1517) (Cogan Mordechai, 1 Kings , pg. 84). Together with Samuel , Kings chronicles the entire period of Israel's monarchy. The reigns of David and Solomon initially offer hope, showing the fulfillment of God’s promises, as their leadership marks a stark contrast to the chaotic times of the judges. However, this era of peace and prosperity is short-lived. After Solomon's death, the kingdom divides, and a downward spiral begins. Despite the ministries of prophets like Elijah and Elisha, Israel’s heart continues to turn toward idolatry, particularly the worship of Baal. As we journey through Kings , we witness the relentless depravity of man, but we are also reminded of God’s unshakable promise to David—that He would raise up a son to sit on the throne and establish an everlasting kingdom. This promise keeps us looking forward, n...

Reflection: The books of Samuel and Kings provide a historical narrative of Israel's monarchy. Samuel begins the story with the rise of Israel's first king, Saul, whose failure to follow God's will ultimately leads to the anointing of David, a king after God's own heart. Under David's leadership, Israel enters a golden age, expanding its territory and establishing peace. This prosperity continues under Solomon, David's son, creating an optimistic outlook for the future of the nation. However, the Book of Kings shifts in tone, beginning with the reign of Solomon and the promise of continued success, but gradually descending into division and eventual captivity. As we journey through these books, it can be helpful to trace the reign of each king alongside the corresponding prophet, as this provides valuable context for understanding the spiritual and political landscape of Israel. One of the tools I’ve found particularly useful in my Bible reading is a timeline of...

Reflection: As we continue through Israel's history, the focus shifts to three central figures: Samuel, Saul, and David. This transition from the period of the judges to a monarchy showcases God’s sovereignty and underscores the importance of obedience. While Saul’s disobedience leads to his downfall, David, a man after God’s own heart, stands in contrast as a model of faithfulness, though imperfect. Ultimately, much like the book of Ruth, this narrative points beyond these figures to the true Prophet and King, Jesus Christ, who fulfills the roles of both king and servant in perfect obedience to God’s will. 1 Samuel 12-15: Confessing Sin. Saul’s sin of offering the burnt sacrifice (1 Samuel 13) is met with Samuel’s penetrating question, "What have you done?" This is a question the Holy Spirit often asks us after we sin, reminding us of our need for genuine repentance. Saul chooses to make excuses, but the true response is humble confession and repentance, as Samuel declar...

  Reflection: This week, we journey through three significant books—Judges, Ruth, and 1 Samuel—that reveal the ongoing tension between human failure and God’s faithful promises. Judges ends on a somber note, declaring, “In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25). This highlights the moral and spiritual chaos of the time, where the people repeatedly turned from God’s ways. In contrast, the book of Ruth provides a more hopeful glimpse amidst this apostasy. During the same period of the judges, Elimelech, in a moment of faithlessness, leaves the land of Promise to seek refuge in Moab—an enemy nation. Worse still, his sons marry Moabite women in direct violation of God's command (Deut. 23:3-6). Yet, even in their disobedience, God remains faithful to His covenant. From Ruth, a Moabite widow, comes a son named Obed, who would be the grandfather of David, Israel’s great king. This royal line, established through God’s providence...