Verses 12–25
Solomon received Bathsheba with all the respect that was owing to a mother; but let none be
asked for that which they ought not to grant. It ill becomes a good man to prefer a bad request, or
to appear in a bad cause. According to eastern customs it was plain that Adonijah sought to be king,
by his asking for Abishag as his wife, and Solomon could not be safe while he lived. Ambitious,
turbulent spirits commonly prepare death for themselves. Many a head has been lost by catching
at a crown.
Verses 26–34
Solomon's words to Abiathar, and his silence, imply that some recent conspiracies had been
entered into. Those that show kindness to God's people shall have it remembered to their advantage.
For this reason Solomon spares Abiathar's life, but dismisses him from his offices. In case of such
sins as the blood of beasts would atone for, the altar was a refuge, but not in Joab's case. Solomon
looks upward to God as the Author of peace, and forward to eternity as the perfection of it. The
Lord of peace himself gives us that peace which is everlasting.
Verses 35–46
The old malignity remains in the unconverted heart, and a watchful eye should be kept on those
who, like Shimei, have manifested their enmity, but have given no evidence of repentance. No
engagements or dangers will restrain worldly men; they go on, though they forfeit their lives and
souls. Let us remember, God will not accommodate his judgment to us. His eye is over us; and let
us strive to walk as in his presence. Let our every act, word, and thought, be governed by this great
truth, that the hour is quickly coming when the smallest circumstances of our lives shall be brought
to light, and our eternal state be fixed by a righteous and unerring God. Thus Solomon's throne was
established in peace, as the type of the Redeemer's kingdom of peace and righteousness. And it is
a comfort, in reference to the enmity of the church's enemies, that, how much soever they rage, it
is a vain thing they imagine. Christ's throne is established, and they cannot shake it.
Chapter 3
Chapter Outline
Solomon's marriage. (1–4)
His vision, His prayer for wisdom. (5–15)
The judgment of Solomon. (16–28)Verses 1–4