What is the meaning of 1 Kings 16:5? As for the rest of the acts of Baasha • This opening phrase signals that what follows is a customary wrap-up for a king’s biography in Kings (see similar formulas in 1 Kings 14:19; 15:31; 16:14). • It assures us that Baasha’s reign was real history with specific deeds—military campaigns, political moves, constructions—that actually happened. Scripture doesn’t exhaustively record everything, but it affirms that much more could be told. • By recording only the events necessary for God’s purposes, the text models John 21:25, where the apostle says, “Jesus did many other things as well,” yet what is written is sufficient for faith and obedience. along with his accomplishments and might • “Accomplishments” points to the tangible results of Baasha’s reign—fortifying Ramah (1 Kings 15:17), expanding territory, imposing taxes. • “Might” highlights his military strength; he rose from a commoner in Issachar (1 Kings 15:27) to overthrow King Nadab and then hold Israel for 24 years. • The wording mirrors earlier notices about kings such as Rehoboam (1 Kings 14:22–24) and Asa (1 Kings 15:23), reminding us that God keeps track of every leader’s deeds, whether good or evil (Ecclesiastes 12:14). • Even though Baasha’s “might” looked impressive, 1 Kings 16:7 states that the LORD judged him for leading Israel into sin—illustrating Proverbs 21:30: “There is no wisdom, no understanding, and no plan that can prevail against the LORD.” are they not written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Israel? • This rhetorical question points readers to an external royal record—an official state archive that has since been lost, much like the “Book of Jashar” cited in Joshua 10:13. • The reference underscores God’s sovereign oversight: what human scribes recorded in their annals, God has preserved permanently in His inspired Word (Psalm 119:89). • By mentioning another source, Scripture invites us to value historical accuracy. Luke does the same in Luke 1:1-4, showing that faith is rooted in verifiable events. • While we no longer possess that chronicle, its loss in no way weakens Scripture’s authority; rather, it enhances our confidence that the Bible selectively preserves what is most spiritually vital (2 Timothy 3:16-17). summary 1 Kings 16:5 wraps up Baasha’s story by affirming that: • His reign was filled with real, measurable deeds. • His power looked strong but could not shield him from divine judgment. • God faithfully records history, and His Word gives us everything we need to know. The verse therefore calls us to remember that every act—ours included—is seen by the LORD, will be judged by His righteous standard, and only what aligns with His purposes will stand. |
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