How does Shimei's response in 1 Kings 2:38 reflect obedience to authority? Setting the scene • After David’s death, Solomon secures the throne (1 Kings 2:12). • Shimei, who had once cursed David (2 Samuel 16:5-13), is summoned and restricted to Jerusalem on penalty of death (1 Kings 2:36-37). Shimei’s words of submission “Shimei replied, ‘What you say is good; your servant will do as my lord the king has said.’ And Shimei lived in Jerusalem a long time.” (1 Kings 2:38) • “What you say is good” – he affirms the righteousness of Solomon’s command, not arguing, excusing, or negotiating. • “Your servant” – he openly identifies himself as under Solomon’s authority. • “Will do” – a clear pledge of practical, not merely verbal, obedience. Actions affirm the words • Remaining in Jerusalem “a long time” shows consistent, ongoing compliance, not a momentary display (cf. Matthew 21:28-30, where true obedience is proved by action). • By accepting confinement, he relinquishes personal freedom in deference to royal authority, echoing the principle that obedience sometimes requires costly self-restraint (Luke 9:23). Biblical principles illustrated • God-ordained authority is to be honored: “Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities” (Romans 13:1-2). • Obedience is expressed through both respectful speech and consistent conduct (James 2:17). • Submission is personal: Shimei calls himself “your servant,” mirroring the call for believers to serve “with sincerity of heart, as to Christ” (Ephesians 6:5-7). • A repentant posture can restore relationship with authority despite past rebellion (compare 1 Peter 2:13-15). Take-home highlights • Genuine obedience begins with acknowledging the fairness of rightful commands. • Respectful words (“your servant”) prepare the heart for faithful follow-through. • Long-term compliance proves sincerity. • Scripture consistently links honoring earthly authority with honoring the Lord who establishes that authority. |
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