1 Kings 1:25

For today he has gone down and sacrificed an abundance of oxen, fattened calves, and sheep, and has invited all the sons of the king, the commanders of the army, and Abiathar the priest. And behold, they are eating and drinking before him, saying, 'Long live King Adonijah!'

Study Bible

For today he has gone down and sacrificed an abundance of oxen, fattened calves, and sheep
This phrase indicates a significant event, as sacrifices of this magnitude were typically associated with important religious or royal occasions. The act of sacrificing animals was a common practice in ancient Israel, symbolizing dedication and seeking favor from God. The abundance of sacrifices suggests an attempt to legitimize Adonijah's claim to the throne, as such offerings were often used to gain public support and divine approval. This mirrors other instances in the Bible where sacrifices are used to mark significant transitions or covenants, such as Solomon's later dedication of the temple (1 Kings 8).

and has invited all the sons of the king, the commanders of the army, and Abiathar the priest
Adonijah's invitation list is strategic, aiming to gather influential support for his claim to kingship. The "sons of the king" refers to David's other sons, who could be potential rivals or allies. By including them, Adonijah seeks to consolidate his power and prevent opposition. The "commanders of the army" are crucial for military backing, reflecting the importance of securing the loyalty of the armed forces in ancient Near Eastern politics. Abiathar the priest's presence is significant, as he was a high-ranking religious leader, and his support would lend religious legitimacy to Adonijah's claim. This mirrors the political maneuvering seen in other biblical narratives, such as Absalom's rebellion (2 Samuel 15).

And behold, they are eating and drinking before him
The act of eating and drinking together signifies a covenant or agreement, often used to seal alliances in the ancient world. This communal meal indicates acceptance and celebration of Adonijah's self-proclaimed kingship. In biblical culture, shared meals were significant social and religious events, symbolizing unity and fellowship. This scene contrasts with the Last Supper in the New Testament, where Jesus shares a meal with His disciples, symbolizing a new covenant and foreshadowing His sacrificial death.

saying, ‘Long live King Adonijah!’
The acclamation "Long live King Adonijah!" is a public declaration of support and recognition of his claim to the throne. This phrase is a traditional expression of loyalty and allegiance to a new ruler. However, the context reveals the premature nature of this proclamation, as David had not yet declared his successor. This highlights the tension and conflict within the royal family and the kingdom. The phrase also foreshadows the eventual failure of Adonijah's bid for kingship, as God's plan for Solomon to succeed David is ultimately fulfilled, reflecting the biblical theme of divine sovereignty over human affairs.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Adonijah
The son of King David who attempts to declare himself king without David's blessing. His actions are central to the events of this chapter.

2. King David
The aging king of Israel, whose succession is in question. His decision will determine the future of the kingdom.

3. Solomon
The son of David and Bathsheba, whom God has chosen to succeed David as king, though not yet publicly declared.

4. Abiathar the Priest
A priest who supports Adonijah's claim to the throne, indicating a division among the religious leaders.

5. Joab
The commander of David's army, who also supports Adonijah, showing a split in military loyalty.

6. Jerusalem
The city where these events unfold, the political and spiritual center of Israel.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Leadership
Despite human attempts to control outcomes, God's will prevails. Adonijah's self-exaltation contrasts with God's choice of Solomon, reminding us to seek God's guidance in leadership decisions.

The Danger of Self-Promotion
Adonijah's actions serve as a warning against self-promotion and ambition that disregards God's will. We should be wary of pursuing positions or roles without seeking God's direction.

The Importance of Godly Counsel
The absence of Nathan the prophet and other godly advisors at Adonijah's feast highlights the importance of surrounding ourselves with wise, God-fearing counsel.

Faithfulness to God's Promises
God's promise to David about his lineage is a testament to His faithfulness. We can trust that God will fulfill His promises in our lives, even when circumstances seem uncertain.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Adonijah's attempt to become king reflect human tendencies to seek power and control? How can we guard against similar tendencies in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the support of Abiathar and Joab for Adonijah illustrate the potential for division within a community? How can we work towards unity in our own communities?

3. How does the account of Solomon's eventual rise to the throne encourage us to trust in God's timing and plan, even when it seems delayed?

4. What role does godly counsel play in making important decisions, and how can we ensure we are seeking and listening to such counsel?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to wait for God's promise to be fulfilled. How did that experience strengthen your faith, and how can it encourage others who are waiting on God's promises?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 16
The anointing of David as king, highlighting God's choice versus human ambition.

2 Samuel 7
God's covenant with David, promising that his lineage will continue to rule, which is fulfilled through Solomon.

1 Kings 2
The eventual establishment of Solomon as king, showing the fulfillment of God's plan despite human interference.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trusting in the Lord's plan rather than leaning on one's own understanding, relevant to the contrast between Adonijah's self-promotion and God's choice of Solomon.