The United Kingdom (1 Kings 1:1–11:43)
As King David grew old, a struggle began over who would rule after him. One of his sons tried to take the throne, but God chose Solomon, the son of David and Bathsheba. With the prophet Nathan’s help, Solomon was crowned king. When David died, Solomon faithfully continued his father’s work, beginning a new chapter for the nation of Israel.
Early in his reign, God appeared to Solomon in a dream and told him to ask for anything he wanted. Instead of riches or power, Solomon asked for wisdom to lead the people well. God was pleased and gave him not only great wisdom but also wealth and honor. Solomon became famous for his wise judgments, and leaders from many nations came to hear him speak.
Solomon built the temple in Jerusalem, a magnificent place for worship where God’s presence would dwell. When it was finished, he prayed a heartfelt prayer, asking God to watch over Israel and forgive them when they turned back to Him. The temple became the spiritual center of the nation, uniting the people in worship.
Israel grew strong and wealthy under Solomon’s rule. Trade and peace flourished, and the nation reached its greatest time of prosperity. However, as Solomon grew older, he began to turn away from God by marrying foreign wives who worshiped idols. His heart was no longer fully devoted to the Lord.
Because of Solomon’s disobedience, God told him the kingdom would be divided after his death. The united kingdom that began with such promise would soon face division—but God’s plan for His people would still continue.
The Divided Kingdom (1 Kings 12:1–22:53)
After Solomon’s death, his son Rehoboam became king. When the people asked him to lighten the heavy taxes and labor that Solomon had placed on them, Rehoboam refused to listen. He ignored the advice of the elders and followed the harsh counsel of younger men. His prideful decision caused most of the tribes to rebel. The nation of Israel was divided—ten tribes formed the northern kingdom of Israel, and two tribes remained in the south as the kingdom of Judah.
Jeroboam became the first king of the northern kingdom. Fearing that his people would return to worship in Jerusalem, he built golden calves and told the Israelites to worship them instead. This led the nation into idolatry and sin. Prophets were sent by God to warn the people, but many ignored His messages.
Meanwhile, in the southern kingdom, Rehoboam ruled over Judah and tried to stay faithful to God, but he too fell into disobedience. Both kingdoms faced instability, wars, and a series of kings—some who did right in God’s eyes and many who did evil. The divided nation grew weaker as it turned away from the Lord.
God sent prophets like Elijah to call the people back to Him. Elijah boldly confronted King Ahab and his wife Jezebel, who promoted the worship of Baal. On Mount Carmel, God proved His power when fire came down from heaven to consume Elijah’s sacrifice.
The story of the divided kingdom shows the consequences of pride and disobedience. Yet even in their rebellion, God remained patient, sending prophets to remind His people to return to Him and seek His mercy.