1 Kings 2: Group Study Handout

Overview

As David nears death, he gives his son Solomon final instructions (vv. 1-4). David advises Solomon to be strong and to follow Yahweh's commandments, promising that if Solomon is faithful, his lineage will remain on the throne.

Key verse

“and keep the instruction of Yahweh your God, to walk in his ways, to keep his statutes, his commandments, his ordinances, and his testimonies, according to that which is written in the law of Moses, that you may prosper in all that you do, and wherever you turn yourself.”

1 Kings 2:3 (WEB)

Outline

1. 1 Kings 2:1–4 David's Final Instructions to Solomon
2. 1 Kings 2:5–9 Dealing with Joab and Shimei
3. 1 Kings 2:10–12 David's Death and Solomon's Ascension
4. 1 Kings 2:13–22 Adonijah's Request and Solomon's Response
5. 1 Kings 2:23–25 Execution of Adonijah
6. 1 Kings 2:26–34 Abiathar and Joab's Fate
7. 1 Kings 2:35–46 Shimei's Punishment and Kingdom's Establishment

Discussion questions

1. In v4, what condition does David give for maintaining a descendant on the throne?
2. What does Solomon say about Adonijah's request in v22?
3. David's instruction to Solomon in vv. 2-3: how does it shape the nature of kingship?
4. Solomon's command to Benaiah in v25: what implications does this have for leadership and justice?
5. When has a promise you made felt burdensome, similar to Solomon's oath to Shimei in v42?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 1 Kings 2: 1 Kings 1, 2 Samuel 3, 2 Samuel 19.

Before next time: read 1 Kings 3.