Useful Bible Studies > 1 Kings Commentary > chapter 9
God himself had established his relationship with Israel, and he had made wonderful promises to its people. Now, they had completed the construction of the temple, the very holy house of God in Jerusalem.
So, Solomon and the people might have imagined that these things would protect their nation from any troubles. They might have expected to receive God’s protection however they chose to live. Perhaps Solomon, or the kings after him, would choose to serve false gods. Perhaps they would neglect God’s commands and choose instead to carry out the most terrible evil deeds (Isaiah 1:21-23). They might even believe that God would not dare to act against them because of his holy temple (Jeremiah 7:4-11).
For that reason, God warned Solomon very severely. God’s promises are certain (Jeremiah 31:35-37; 2 Corinthians 1:20) – but each person must choose whether he will accept his part in those promises (for example, Joshua 24:14-24). Each person must choose whether he will live in the right way or in an evil way (Psalm 1).
God gave to Solomon and the kings after him the responsibility to lead Israel’s people. If they directed the people not to be loyal to God then God had to act against them. That was necessary because of the honour that is due to God’s most holy name. As Moses had warned, the people would lose their place in their land (Deuteronomy 30:1-4). They would live as foreigners in other nations until the time when God permitted their return. He would even permit their enemies to destroy his holy temple. Then everyone would see God’s anger against their evil deeds.
Next part: If God's people turn from him, enemies will destroy the temple (1 Kings 9:8-9)
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