2 Chronicles

2 Chronicles 1:1-12

Solomon was the third and final king of a united Israel. Solomon reigned from about 971_B.C. to 931 _B.C. Solomon's name means peace and the nation was at peace during his reign. It was also a time of prosperity; the temple and other buildings were built. His reputation spread across the world and he was respected and at peace with the surrounding nations.

Solomon followed David's speech to all the leaders of Israel; he stepped forward as the king and led all these men to Gibeon where the tabernacle of meeting was located. The bronze alar made by Bezalel was the original from Exodus 27:1-8. offered a great offering on the altar.

God's appearance to Solomon is paralleled in 1 Kings 3:5. The Lord invited Solomon to ask for anything. This is a test of the heart; not for God to find out what was in Solomon's heart but for Solomon to know his heart in the presence of God. The 'judging' of the people seemed to be an unimaginable burden so Solomon asked for wisdom and knowledge.

God was pleased with the heart of Solomon and grants his desires as well as riches and wealth and honor like no one had ever seen before or since.

2 Chronicles 1:13-17

Solomon was famous for his chariots and horsemen. It shows his wealth to some degree. It's also noteworthy that the kings were warned not to multiply horses or import them from Egypt. He also wasn't supposed to multiply wives, or silver and gold. all of which Solomon did (Deuteronomy 17:16-17).

©2016 Doug Ford