behold, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there has never been nor will ever be another like you. behold, I will do what you have asked.This phrase highlights God's response to Solomon's request for wisdom. In the context of 1 Kings 3, Solomon had just become king and was aware of the immense responsibility he had in leading Israel. His request for wisdom rather than wealth or long life pleased God, demonstrating Solomon's humility and prioritization of God's will. This reflects the biblical principle found in James 1:5, where believers are encouraged to ask God for wisdom, and He will give generously. I will give you a wise and discerning heart,
The granting of a "wise and discerning heart" signifies more than just intellectual knowledge; it encompasses moral insight and the ability to govern justly. In the ancient Near Eastern context, wisdom was highly valued, often associated with the ability to make sound judgments and lead effectively. This wisdom is a type of Christ, who is described in 1 Corinthians 1:24 as the "wisdom of God." Solomon's wisdom foreshadows the perfect wisdom found in Jesus. so that there will never have been another like you,
This phrase underscores the uniqueness of Solomon's wisdom. Historically, Solomon's reign is marked by unprecedented peace and prosperity, attributed to his God-given wisdom. His ability to make wise decisions, such as the famous judgment involving two women claiming to be the mother of a child (1 Kings 3:16-28), set him apart from other rulers. This uniqueness also points to the singular nature of Christ, who is unparalleled in His wisdom and understanding. nor will there ever be.
The promise that no one will ever match Solomon's wisdom highlights the extraordinary nature of this divine gift. While others may possess wisdom, Solomon's was divinely bestowed in a manner that was unparalleled. This can be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate wisdom found in Christ, who is described in Colossians 2:3 as having "all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." Solomon's wisdom serves as a type, pointing to the greater wisdom and understanding found in Jesus. Persons / Places / Events 1. SolomonThe son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon was the third king of Israel. Known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, he is a central figure in this passage. 2. GodThe sovereign Lord who appears to Solomon in a dream, granting him wisdom in response to his humble request. 3. GibeonThe place where Solomon offered sacrifices and where God appeared to him in a dream. It was a significant high place before the temple was built in Jerusalem. 4. DreamThe medium through which God communicated with Solomon, offering him anything he desired. 5. WisdomThe divine gift granted to Solomon, making him renowned for his understanding and judgment. Teaching Points The Value of WisdomSolomon's request for wisdom over wealth or power demonstrates the supreme value of wisdom in leading a life that honors God. Believers are encouraged to prioritize wisdom in their own lives. God's GenerosityGod's response to Solomon's request shows His willingness to give generously to those who seek His guidance. This encourages believers to approach God with their needs, trusting in His provision. Humility in LeadershipSolomon's request reflects humility, acknowledging his need for divine guidance. Leaders today can learn from Solomon's example, seeking God's wisdom in their decision-making. The Impact of a Discerning HeartA wise and discerning heart can lead to just and fair decisions, impacting not only the individual but also those they lead. Believers are called to seek discernment in their interactions and decisions. Legacy of WisdomSolomon's wisdom left a lasting legacy, influencing generations. Believers are encouraged to consider the legacy they are building through their pursuit of wisdom and godly living. Bible Study Questions 1. What does Solomon's request for wisdom reveal about his priorities, and how can we apply this to our own prayer life? 2. How does the concept of wisdom in 1 Kings 3:12 relate to the wisdom described in the book of Proverbs? 3. In what ways can we seek and apply God's wisdom in our daily decisions and interactions with others? 4. How does Solomon's example of humility before God challenge our approach to leadership and influence? 5. Reflect on a time when you sought God's wisdom in a difficult situation. What was the outcome, and how did it impact your faith journey? Connections to Other Scriptures James 1:5This verse encourages believers to ask God for wisdom, promising that He gives generously to all without finding fault. It connects to Solomon's request for wisdom and God's generous response. Proverbs 2:6This verse states that the Lord gives wisdom, and from His mouth come knowledge and understanding, reinforcing the source of Solomon's wisdom. Matthew 12:42Jesus refers to the Queen of Sheba's visit to Solomon, highlighting his wisdom and foreshadowing the greater wisdom found in Christ. | The Prayer of Solomon and its Fulfilment | E. De Pressense | 1 Kings 3:3-16; 4:2-34 | | A Prince At Prayer | | 1 Kings 3:5-15 | | A Wise Choice | E. J. Hardy, M. A. | 1 Kings 3:5-15 | | Acquisition of Knowledge | Homilist | 1 Kings 3:5-15 | | Dreams Indicate Character | Hugh Black, M. A. | 1 Kings 3:5-15 | | Effectual Prayer | Homilist | 1 Kings 3:5-15 | | Lonely Communion in View of Great Duty | H. O. Mackey. | 1 Kings 3:5-15 | | On the Youth of Solomon | A. Allison, LL. B. | 1 Kings 3:5-15 | | Solomon's Choice | J. MacNeill. | 1 Kings 3:5-15 | | Solomon's Choice | Monday Club Sermons | 1 Kings 3:5-15 | | Solomon's Choice | J. Eells, D. D. | 1 Kings 3:5-15 | | Solomon's Choice | E. Payson, D. D. | 1 Kings 3:5-15 | | The Duty, Nature, and Blessings of Prayer | R. P. Buddicom, M. A. | 1 Kings 3:5-15 | | The First Thing to Do | C. S. Robinson, D. D. | 1 Kings 3:5-15 | | The Heart as Organ of Insight | C. H. Parkhurst, D. D. | 1 Kings 3:5-15 | | The Highest Order of Wisdom | Alex. Whyte, D. D. | 1 Kings 3:5-15 | | The Story of a Right Choice | W. Hoyt. | 1 Kings 3:5-15 | | The Wisdom of Solomon | Homiletic Quarterly | 1 Kings 3:5-15 | | True Aims and False Aims | H. Evans. | 1 Kings 3:5-15 | | Wisdom | Carlyle. | 1 Kings 3:5-15 | | A Wise Prayer | J. Waite | 1 Kings 3:5-16 | | The Wisdom of Solomon's Choice | A. Rowland | 1 Kings 3:9-13 |
People David, Gibeon, Pharaoh, SolomonPlaces Egypt, Gibeon, JerusalemTopics Anyone, Arise, Behold, Discerning, Equal, Far-seeing, Future, Heart, Mind, None, Past, Understanding, WiseDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Kings 3:12 3050 Holy Spirit, wisdom
5014 heart, human
8228 discernment, examples
8367 wisdom, importance of 1 Kings 3:5-12 1680 types 1 Kings 3:5-13 8130 guidance, from godly people 1 Kings 3:5-14 5548 speech, divine
6622 choice 1 Kings 3:5-15 5849 exaltation 1 Kings 3:6-15 5120 Solomon, character 1 Kings 3:9-12 8281 insight
8409 decision-making, and providence 1 Kings 3:10-12 5028 knowledge, God source of human 1 Kings 3:10-14 5787 ambition, positive 1 Kings 3:11-12 5064 spirit, emotional
8617 prayer, effective 1 Kings 3:11-14 5871 greed, response to Library A Young Man's Wise Choice Op Wisdom
'In Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee. 6. And Solomon said, Thou hast shewed unto Thy servant David my father great mercy, according as he walked before Thee in truth, and in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart with Thee; and Thou hast kept for him this great kindness, that Thou hast given him a son to sit on his throne, as it is this day. 7. And now, O Lord my God, Thou hast made Thy servant king instead of David my father: and …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture"But Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God and his Righteousness," &C.
Matt. vi. 33.--"But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness," &c. This is a part of Christ's long sermon. He is dissuading his disciples and the people from carnal carefulness and worldly mindedness. The sermon holds out the Christian's diverse aspects towards spiritual and external things. What is the Christian's disposition in regard to the world, how should he look upon food, raiment, and all things necessary in this life? "Be careful for nothing." "Take no thought for your life, …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning Whether the Degrees of Prophecy Change as Time Goes On?
Objection 1: It would seem that the degrees of prophecy change as time goes on. For prophecy is directed to the knowledge of Divine things, as stated above [3690](A[2]). Now according to Gregory (Hom. in Ezech.), "knowledge of God went on increasing as time went on." Therefore degrees of prophecy should be distinguished according to the process of time. Objection 2: Further, prophetic revelation is conveyed by God speaking to man; while the prophets declared both in words and in writing the things …
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica Letter Lxxiv. To Rufinus of Rome.
Rufinus, a Roman Presbyter (to be carefully distinguished from Rufinus of Aquileia and Rufinus the Syrian), had written to Jerome for an explanation of the judgment of Solomon (1 Kings iii. 16-28). This Jerome gives at length, treating the narrative as a parable and making the false and true mothers types of the Synagogue and the Church. The date of the letter is 398 a.d. …
St. Jerome—The Principal Works of St. Jerome Love is the Touchstone by which the Reality of Truth is Perceived...
1. Love is the touchstone by which the reality of truth is perceived, and by it shall all men know that ye are My disciples (John xiii.35). I also make use of the sword of justice, so that at first sight some are inclined to think that, like Solomon, I intend to finish My work without mercy (1 Kings iii.16-28), but My object, like his, is to apply the touchstone of love which will bring out the truth, and show that you are the children of that God of Love who gave His life to save yours. You ought …
Sadhu Sundar Singh—At The Master's Feet The Song of Solomon.
An important link in the chain of the Messianic hopes is formed by the Song of Solomon. It is intimately associated with Ps. lxxii., which was written by Solomon, and represents the Messiah as the Prince of Peace, imperfectly prefigured by Solomon as His type. As in this Psalm, so also in the Song of Solomon, the coming of the Messiah forms the subject throughout, and He is introduced there under the name of Solomon, the Peaceful One. His coming shall be preceded by severe afflictions, represented …
Ernst Wilhelm Hengstenberg—Christology of the Old Testament Sargon of Assyria (722-705 B. C. )
SARGON AS A WARRIOR AND AS A BUILDER. The origin of Sargon II.: the revolt of Babylon, Merodach-baladan and Elam--The kingdom of Elam from the time of the first Babylonian empire; the conquest's of Shutruh-nalkunta I.; the princes of Malamir--The first encounter of Assyria and Elam, the battle of Durilu (721 B.C.)--Revolt of Syria, Iaubidi of Hamath and Hannon of Gaza--Bocchoris and the XXIVth Egyptian dynasty; the first encounter of Assyria with Egypt, the battle of Raphia (720 B.C.). Urartu …
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 7 Tit. 2:06 Thoughts for Young Men
WHEN St. Paul wrote his Epistle to Titus about his duty as a minister, he mentioned young men as a class requiring peculiar attention. After speaking of aged men and aged women, and young women, he adds this pithy advice, "Young men likewise exhort to be sober-minded" (Tit. 2:6). I am going to follow the Apostle's advice. I propose to offer a few words of friendly exhortation to young men. I am growing old myself, but there are few things I remember so well as the days of my youth. I have a most …
John Charles Ryle—The Upper Room: Being a Few Truths for the Times Formation and History of the Hebrew Canon.
1. The Greek word canon (originally a straight rod or pole, measuring-rod, then rule) denotes that collection of books which the churches receive as given by inspiration of God, and therefore as constituting for them a divine rule of faith and practice. To the books included in it the term canonical is applied. The Canon of the Old Testament, considered in reference to its constituent parts, was formed gradually; formed under divine superintendence by a process of growth extending through …
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible Differences in Judgment About Water Baptism, no Bar to Communion: Or, to Communicate with Saints, as Saints, Proved Lawful.
IN ANSWER TO A BOOK WRITTEN BY THE BAPTISTS, AND PUBLISHED BY MR. T. PAUL AND MR. W. KIFFIN, ENTITLED, 'SOME SERIOUS REFLECTIONS ON THAT PART OF MR BUNYAN'S CONFESSION OF FAITH, TOUCHING CHURCH COMMUNION WITH UNBAPTIZED BELIEVERS.' WHEREIN THEIR OBJECTIONS AND ARGUMENTS ARE ANSWERED, AND THE DOCTRINE OF COMMUNION STILL ASSERTED AND VINDICATED. HERE IS ALSO MR. HENRY JESSE'S JUDGMENT IN THE CASE, FULLY DECLARING THE DOCTRINE I HAVE ASSERTED. BY JOHN BUNYAN. 'Should not the multitude of words be answered? …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 Kings
The book[1] of Kings is strikingly unlike any modern historical narrative. Its comparative brevity, its curious perspective, and-with some brilliant exceptions--its relative monotony, are obvious to the most cursory perusal, and to understand these things is, in large measure, to understand the book. It covers a period of no less than four centuries. Beginning with the death of David and the accession of Solomon (1 Kings i., ii.) it traverses his reign with considerable fulness (1 Kings iii.-xi.), …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links 1 Kings 3:12 NIV1 Kings 3:12 NLT1 Kings 3:12 ESV1 Kings 3:12 NASB1 Kings 3:12 KJV
1 Kings 3:12 Commentaries
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