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1 Kings 6:11-13 (6/12/14)

God's Presence

June 12, 2014 • Benham Brothers

Solomon was sparing no expence at the building of God's temple.
He even used cut stones to lay the foundation, which would never be seen.
God liked what He was seeing so He spoke to Solomon to encourage him.
What God told Solomon, however, had nothing to do with the building.
He knew Solomon was building a temple for His presence to remain, so God reminded Solomon the true cause of His presence remaining.
It wasn't because the building was so nice - it was due to obedience to God's commandments.
God's presence would not fill the incredible building Solomon built unless God's people obeyed His commands.
God's presence in our lives is the same way - no matter what type of "good" you're doing in the world it won't bring God's presence - only obedience will.

1 Kings 1:8-10 (5/18/17)

May 18, 2017 • Benham Brothers

* Notice how Abiathar (bad priest) was attracted to Adonijah (the bad king). * Both guys were seeking a name for themselves. * But Zadok (the good priest), Benaiah (the warrior), and Nathan (the prophet) were all attracted to David (the good king). * The conniving, brand-building, ambitious, self-seeking man refused to hang around those who were faithful to the one true king. * Question - who is attracted to you and who are you attracted to? * All too often we see pastors staying away from certain people because what’s in them doesn’t jive with what’s in the others. * vs 32-25 - it was the prophet, priest, and warrior who made Solomon king! * We need to represent Jesus as king, and the only way to do it is to be like these guys!

1 Kings 1:15 (5/18/17)

May 18, 2017 • Benham Brothers

* What do you think of when the name Bathsheba is mentioned? * Now, how about Esther? * Both women ended up in the same spot - in a position to influence the most powerful man on the planet. * Both women got the king moving in the right direction and it positively affected their culture. * This is a picture of God’s redemption - He can make a message out of our mess if we let Him. * Also notice - both women needed someone to get them moving in the right direction. * Esther needed Mordecai and Bathsheba needed Nathan.

1 Kings 1:52 (5/18/17)

May 18, 2017 • Benham Brothers

* This verse shows us the very first words out of Solomon’s mouth. * Two oversvations: * 1) What he DID say: * Essentially, “it’s not my decision to put you to death - it’s yours” (Adonijah) * Solomon was showing mercy and giving Adjonijah a mulligan. * It would be Adonijah’s choice. * 2) What he DID NOT say: * “You have nothing to fear.” * Adonijah had everything to fear, but it would be based on his own behavior. * Solomon’s first act was to show mercy, but he did it in such a way that struck fear in the heart of this man.