Like a good detective, let's examine this book.

🔥 Overview

The book of 1 Kings is the first part of a big book simply called "Kings." Originally 1 and 2 Kings were written together. In this Divinely inspired historical document, we watch the nation of Israel slowly fall into disobedience and idolatry. It can be hard to read at times, but there is also something beautiful. Even in their darkness moments, God has not given up on the nation of Israel.

🔍 Things to Notice

This book contains the split of the Kingdom and why.
The life of Elijah is awesome!
Elijah is one of two people in the Bible who does not die in a traditional way. (The other is Enoch.)

🙏 Jesus in this Book

(Every book reveals the glory of God, displayed in Christ Jesus)

Jesus is the Servant King.

👀 Themes

Decline.
Division.
Remnant.
Choose whom you will serve.
Your History Tells a Story but Not the Whole Story (God is also there and He can make a new future.)

😀 Who?

Who wrote it? The authors of Kings is unknown.

Who is the original audience? The nation of Israel and Judah.

🪧 Where?

Where are we? All events in Israel.

⏳ When?

When was it written: Written: 560-540 BC. Time frame talked about: 970-586 BC.

🤔 What?

What is the big idea? The book of 1 Kings is the first part of a big book simply called "Kings." Originally 1 and 2 Kings were written together. In this Divinely inspired historical document, we watch the nation of Israel slowly fall into disobedience and idolatry. It can be hard to read at times, but there is also something beautiful. Even in their darkness moments, God has not given up on the nation of Israel.

🧐 Why?

Why is this book important?
From Chuck Swindoll, "Those kings who reigned under God’s authority—who remained faithful to the Law—experienced God’s blessings. But those kings who deviated from the Law experienced curses.
First Kings reveals Solomon’s relationship with Yahweh, emphasizing Solomon’s divinely given wisdom and wealth. Solomon’s reputation reached far beyond Israel’s borders to modern-day Yemen, the queen of Sheba’s likely home (1 Kings 10:1–13). Solomon’s numerous marriages and extensive harem are the stuff of legends, but they led to his wandering faith in later years. Solomon did, however, build the temple, God’s permanent dwelling place among His people.
First Kings also introduces the prophet Elijah, who pronounced God’s judgment on the evil northern king Ahab. In addition to performing other miracles, Elijah won a dramatic confrontation with false prophets on Mount Carmel (18:1–46)."

📝 How?

How can I apply it?: Notice that the decline of Israel did not happen overnight. (...with the exception of the split between kingdoms.) The decline came over time. Also, the decline of their love for God created a decline in every other way. However, there were those like Elijah who continued to point back to God. Realize that your spiritual life effects everything else. Decide not to decline and be someone like Elijah who also points back toward God.