What can we learn about intentions from Adonijah's approach in 1 Kings 2:14?

Setting the Scene

Adonijah, who had already attempted to seize the throne (1 Kings 1), visits Bathsheba after Solomon’s coronation. Scripture gives the precise words of his opening move:

• “Then he said, ‘I have something to say to you.’ ‘Say it,’ she replied.” (1 Kings 2:14)

These few words set the tone for everything that follows.

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What Adonijah Said—and What He Meant

• Calm greeting, hidden agenda

 – He enters “in peace” (v. 13) yet carries a request aimed at undermining Solomon’s reign.

• Vague prelude, calculated outcome

 – “I have something to say to you” delays disclosure, softening Bathsheba’s guard.

• Appeal to sympathy, covert ambition

 – In vv. 15-17 he frames himself as wronged, then asks for Abishag, a request that would imply royal rights (2 Samuel 16:21-22 background).

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The Lesson: Intention Revealed by Approach

• Words can cloak motives

 – “Smooth words and flattering lips” hide a heart that “plots wicked schemes” (Psalm 55:21; Proverbs 6:14).

• God records the exact phrasing to expose the heart

 – “All a man’s ways are pure in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the motives.” (Proverbs 16:2)

• A peaceful appearance is not proof of a peaceful purpose

 – Jeremiah 17:9-10 affirms that the heart is deceptive, searched only by the LORD.

• Intentions surface over time

 – Solomon discerns Adonijah’s true aim and judges him accordingly (1 Kings 2:22-25).

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Guidelines for Our Own Hearts

• Submit intentions to God’s scrutiny

 – “Examine me, O LORD, and try me” (Psalm 26:2).

• Let Scripture expose hidden motives

 – “The word of God is living and active … judging the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12)

• Align speech and motive by the Spirit

 – “Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.” (Matthew 12:34)

• Maintain transparent honesty in requests

 – Jesus teaches direct, sincere speech rooted in truth (Matthew 5:37).

Adonijah’s carefully crafted opening line in 1 Kings 2:14 reminds us that God sees behind every word to the intent that drives it, calling believers to integrity that matches outward approach with inward truth.