What is the meaning of 1 Kings 3:5? One night at Gibeon • The scene occurs “at Gibeon,” where Solomon had just offered “a thousand burnt offerings” (1 Kings 3:4). • Gibeon was still the chief high place because the temple in Jerusalem had not yet been built (1 Kings 3:2). This highlights Solomon’s devotion and sets the context for God’s response. • Similar moments when God met His servants after sacrifice include Abraham at Moriah (Genesis 22:15-18) and Elijah on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18:36-39), underscoring that wholehearted worship invites divine encounter. • “One night” reminds us that God can break into the ordinary rhythms of life unexpectedly, echoing Jacob’s nighttime vision at Bethel (Genesis 28:10-15). the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream • The text states plainly that “the LORD appeared,” affirming the reality of supernatural revelation (cf. Numbers 12:6). • Dreams were a recognized means by which God delivered messages—Joseph in Egypt (Genesis 41:1-16) and Daniel in Babylon (Daniel 2:19). • Although dreams can occur naturally, Scripture distinguishes those initiated by God; here, the encounter is from “the LORD,” verifying its authenticity (Job 33:14-16). • This appearance demonstrates personal relationship: the covenant God of Israel engages directly with the king, fulfilling promises to David his father (2 Samuel 7:12-16). and God said • The narrative shifts from appearance to speech, highlighting that God not only reveals Himself but also communicates clearly (Deuteronomy 5:24). • Divine speech carries authority and creative power—as at creation (“God said…,” Genesis 1) and in prophetic callings (“the word of the LORD came,” Jeremiah 1:4-10). • God’s initiative precedes Solomon’s response. This grace-first pattern mirrors God’s approach to Moses (Exodus 3:4-10) and Isaiah (Isaiah 6:1-9). “Ask, and I will give it to you!” • The invitation is open-ended: Solomon is granted freedom to request anything. Comparable offers are rare but include Elijah’s mantle to Elisha (2 Kings 2:9). • The promise “I will give” reflects God’s generosity and covenant faithfulness (Psalm 84:11; James 1:5). • The word “Ask” anticipates Jesus’ teaching, “Ask, and it will be given to you” (Matthew 7:7), showing continuity in God’s willingness to bless those who seek Him. • God’s offer tests the king’s heart. Solomon’s subsequent request for wisdom (1 Kings 3:9) proves that true discernment values spiritual gifts over material gain (Proverbs 2:6). summary 1 Kings 3:5 records a real, nighttime encounter at Gibeon in which God graciously appears to Solomon through a dream, initiates conversation, and offers to grant his request. The verse underscores God’s responsiveness to sincere worship, His sovereign initiative in revealing Himself, and His generous readiness to bless. It sets the stage for Solomon’s renowned plea for wisdom, illustrating that divine invitations are designed to draw believers into deeper dependence on the LORD and alignment with His purposes. |
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