Going Deeper – 1 Kings 3:1-15

Title and Text: “A King’s Request” – 1 Kings 3:1-15

Connect:

• If God visited you and said, “Ask what I shall give you” how would you respond?

Cultivate:

• How do you interpret the mixed portrait of Solomon in this passage in relation to God’s astounding offer? (vv 1-4 show him making poor, even disobedient, decisions; vv 5ff show him exercising great maturity and wisdom)?
• Solomon requests “an understanding mind” (v 9).  The Hebrew adjective with “mind” is “shema” which means “to hear;” thus, he asks for a listening mind.  How is a listening mind/heart foundational to a life of wisdom?
• The text seems equally concerned with what Solomon does not ask for as what he does request.  Compile a list of things our culture values that people seek/live for.  How is a listening/discerning mind better?
• Read Matt. 6:33.  How does Solomon embody the truth of Jesus’ promise?  Are there ways other than material/financial abundance his word might be fulfilled to those who seek first the kingdom?
• Think of one of the greatest blessings you’ve received, one of the most treasured gifts God has given you.  How did you respond to God’s generosity/provision?  What characterized Solomon’s response in v 15?

Commission:

• Just as Solomon asked the Lord for a gift that would enable him to bring greater glory to God, in prayer ask that the blessings God bestows upon you would empower you to live in a more God-honoring, kingdom-building way.