How does 1 Kings 1:7 illustrate the importance of choosing godly alliances? The Scene in 1 Kings 1:7 “He conferred with Joab son of Zeruiah and with Abiathar the priest, and they supported Adonijah.” Key Players • Adonijah – ambitiously maneuvering for the throne while David still lives • Joab – battle-hardened commander, long trusted yet increasingly self-willed • Abiathar – priest who once carried the ark but now drifts from God’s choice • Missing Voices – Nathan the prophet, Zadok the priest, Benaiah, and Solomon, all loyal to God’s revealed plan (vv. 8–10) What Went Wrong • Alliance built on personal ambition, not divine direction • Joab and Abiathar never inquire of the Lord (cf. 1 Samuel 23:2; 2 Samuel 2:1) • They ignore God’s prior promise that Solomon would reign (1 Chronicles 22:9-10) • The union gives Adonijah false confidence, leading to open rebellion Why Godly Alliances Matter • Companions shape our course (Proverbs 13:20) • Unequal yokes corrupt good character (1 Corinthians 15:33) • Shared obedience multiplies strength (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12) • God honors loyalty to His word over human ties (Matthew 12:48-50) Warning Signs in Joab and Abiathar • Past success ≠ present faithfulness • Loyalty to a person replacing loyalty to God • Silencing prophetic voices that challenge our plans • Convenient theology: using religious position for political gain Positive Contrast • Jonathan aligning with David despite Saul (1 Samuel 18:1-4) • Ruth choosing Naomi’s God and people (Ruth 1:16-17) • Daniel’s friends refusing royal compromise (Daniel 1:8; 3:16-18) Life Application • Evaluate motives before partnering: Is God’s glory central? • Seek counsel from Scripture-anchored believers, not just influential friends • Value prophetic correction; it protects from blind spots • Remember: the right alliance may cost popularity now but secures blessing later (Psalm 1:1-3) Takeaway 1 Kings 1:7 shows that alliances formed apart from God’s revealed will create momentum toward disaster—even among seasoned leaders. Choose companions who drive you toward obedience, not convenience. |
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