What is the meaning of 1 Kings 2:20? One small request “I have just one small request of you,” Bathsheba’s words come after Solomon has taken the throne and dealt with several early challenges (1 Kings 2:12–19). Calling her request “small” reflects humility and tact. Scripture often honors a respectful approach when bringing petitions: • Abigail’s humble plea to David turned aside wrath (1 Samuel 25:23–31). • The Syrophoenician woman acknowledged her unworthiness yet received her daughter’s healing (Mark 7:28–29). • Jesus invites us to bring every concern, great or “small,” promising, “Whatever you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive” (Matthew 21:22). By labeling her request small, Bathsheba models the heart posture Philippians 4:6 commends: present everything to God—nothing is too insignificant. Do not deny me “Do not deny me.” Bathsheba seeks an assurance before disclosing the matter, like Esther before King Xerxes (Esther 5:3). The phrase reveals: • Confidence in covenant relationship—Bathsheba is mother of the king. • Awareness of the king’s absolute authority—he could refuse. • A picture of intercession—echoing believers who appeal to God’s mercy (Psalm 69:16). This mirrors Jesus’ encouragement: “Ask, and it will be given to you” (Matthew 7:7). We come with boldness yet reverence (Hebrews 4:16). Make your request, my mother “Make your request, my mother,” the king replied. Solomon responds with filial respect, obeying Exodus 20:12. His address “my mother” underscores: • A public honoring—Solomon has just seated her at his right hand (1 Kings 2:19). • A readiness to listen—Proverbs 1:8 urges children to heed a mother’s teaching. • The pattern of godly leadership—authority that remains teachable (Proverbs 15:31). Solomon’s posture anticipates Christ, who listened to Mary at Cana (John 2:3–5) even while maintaining divine purpose. I will not deny you “for I will not deny you.” Before hearing details, Solomon pledges favor, reminiscent of Joseph granting his brothers’ request (Genesis 45:17–20). The promise highlights: • The power of relationship—just as believers enjoy access through adoption (Romans 8:15–17). • The seriousness of oath—Solomon binds himself by his word (Ecclesiastes 5:4–5). • A glimpse of divine generosity—God “did not spare His own Son… how will He not also… graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:32). Yet Solomon’s later refusal of Adonijah’s scheme (1 Kings 2:22) shows promises are subject to righteousness; a pledge does not override wisdom or justice (Psalm 101:6–8). summary 1 Kings 2:20 paints a vivid exchange of humble petition and honoring response. Bathsheba’s respectful appeal and Solomon’s willing ear illustrate how closeness, reverence, and righteousness shape requests and answers. For believers, the scene encourages confident yet humble prayer, trusting the King who delights to hear and, in His wisdom, grants what accords with His righteous will. |
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