November 3, 1996 • Pastor Lloyd Pulley • 1 Kings 1—4
As David’s reign comes to an end, Solomon is established as king and asks the Lord for wisdom to lead His people. God grants his request and blesses Solomon with extraordinary wisdom, prosperity, and a peaceful kingdom. These chapters show the importance of seeking God’s wisdom and faithfully walking in His ways.
1 Kings 5-8
November 10, 1996 • Pastor Lloyd Pulley • 1 Kings 5—8
Solomon prepares for and completes the building of the temple in Jerusalem, a place set apart for the worship of the Lord. At its dedication, the glory of God fills the temple, and Solomon leads the people in prayer and worship. Pastor Lloyd takes us through these chapters as we see God’s faithfulness to His promises and the importance of wholehearted devotion to Him.
1 Kings 9-11
November 24, 1996 • Pastor Lloyd Pulley • 1 Kings 9—11
God blesses Solomon greatly, but Solomon eventually allows his many foreign wives to turn his heart toward other gods. Despite his wisdom and all that God had given him, his divided heart leads to serious consequences for the kingdom. These chapters warn us of the danger of allowing anything to draw our hearts away from complete devotion to the Lord.
1 Kings 12-14
December 1, 1996 • Pastor Lloyd Pulley • 1 Kings 12—14
After Solomon’s death, the kingdom divides under Rehoboam and Jeroboam. Jeroboam leads Israel into idolatry by establishing false places of worship, bringing judgment upon his household. Pastor Lloyd shows us through these chapters the serious consequences that can follow pride, foolish decisions, and disobedience to God.
1 Kings 15-17
December 8, 1996 • Pastor Lloyd Pulley • 1 Kings 15—17
The divided kingdom continues through a succession of kings, many of whom do evil in the sight of the Lord. Against this backdrop, Elijah enters the story and boldly declares God’s word to King Ahab. Through Elijah and the widow at Zarephath, we see God’s power, provision, and faithfulness even during a time of widespread wickedness.
1 Kings 18-19
December 15, 1996 • Pastor Lloyd Pulley • 1 Kings 18—19
Elijah confronts the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, where God dramatically demonstrates that He alone is Lord. Yet soon afterward, Elijah becomes afraid and discouraged and flees into the wilderness. Pastor Lloyd takes us through Elijah’s victory and discouragement, reminding us of God’s power as well as His patient care for His servants in times of weakness.
1 Kings 20-22
December 29, 1996 • Pastor Lloyd Pulley • 1 Kings 20—22
The final chapters of 1 Kings focus largely on King Ahab and his continued refusal to fully obey the Lord. Though God repeatedly demonstrates His power and sends His word through the prophets, Ahab continues down a path of compromise and rebellion. His eventual death demonstrates the certainty of God’s word and reminds us of the importance of listening to and obeying the Lord.
