Make an effort – Preaching
Preaching Outline on 1 Kings 1:2-3 – I go the way of all the earth: be strong therefore, and be a man. And keep the charge of the Lord thy God, to walk in his ways, and to keep his statutes, and his commandments, and his judgments, and his testimonies, as it is written in the law of Moses; that thou mayest prosper in all that thou doest, and whithersoever thou goest.
David’s Legacy to Solomon and to Us
Introduction to 1 Kings 1:2-3
The book of 1 Kings takes us back to a crucial moment in Israel’s history: the transition of power from David, the great king who unified the nation, to his son Solomon. David, already elderly and nearing the end of his life, recognizes the importance of preparing his successor for the great responsibility that awaited him.
The scene described in 1 Kings 1 is one of expectation and uncertainty. David, weakened by age, lies on his deathbed, while intrigue and power struggles rage in the palace. In the midst of this tense atmosphere, David summons Solomon to give him his last instructions and advice.
David’s words to Solomon in 1 Kings 1:2-3 reveal the profound wisdom and spiritual legacy he wished to pass on to his son. More than a set of rules or political strategies, David shares timeless principles that would guide Solomon in his reign and lead him to achieve true prosperity.
David’s advice transcends the historical context and applies to each of us today. Like Solomon, we are challenged to “strive and be men” (and women!), taking on the responsibilities that God entrusts to us with courage and determination.
David’s central message to Solomon is the importance of obedience to God. “Keep the charge of the Lord your God,” says David, emphasizing that true strength and wisdom come from fidelity to divine principles.
Development
1 Kings 1:2-3: “And David said, I go the way of all the earth: therefore be strong, and be a man. Keep the charge of the Lord thy God, to walk in his ways, and to keep his statutes, and his commandments, and his judgments, and his testimonies, as it is written in the law of Moses, that thou mayest prosper in all that thou doest, and whithersoever thou goest.”
“I’m going the way of all the earth”
David recognizes the brevity of life and the inevitability of death. This awareness of finitude led him to take the succession seriously and to prepare Solomon to take his place.
Nowadays, in a society that often denies death and seeks eternal youth, David’s attitude invites us to reflect on the brevity of life and the importance of living each day with purpose and meaning.
“Work hard and be a man”
David urged Solomon to be strong and courageous in the face of the challenges that awaited him. Leadership requires determination, resilience and the ability to make difficult decisions.
Today, in a world that values immediacy and instant gratification, we are challenged to cultivate perseverance, discipline and strength of character in order to face adversity and fulfill our mission.
“Keep the commandment of the Lord your God”
The heart of David’s advice lay in obedience to God. David knew that Solomon’s success as king would depend on his faithfulness to God’s commandments.
In an increasingly secularized and relativistic society, David’s exhortation to keep the Lord’s ordinance calls us to live a life of integrity, coherence and commitment to the values of the Kingdom of God.
“That you may prosper in all you do and wherever you go”
The promise of prosperity is conditional on obedience to God. True prosperity is not limited to material success, but encompasses all areas of life: spiritual, emotional, relational and social.
In this day and age, when success is often measured by material possessions and achievements, David’s promise reminds us that true prosperity comes from God and manifests itself in a life of peace, joy and meaning.
Conclusion of 1 Kings 1:2-3
David’s words to Solomon in 1 Kings 1:2-3 have echoed down the centuries, offering us a guide to a life of wisdom, courage and prosperity. In a world marked by uncertainties and challenges, David’s message invites us to strive, be strong and, above all, keep the Lord’s ordinance.
May we, like Solomon, seek God with all our hearts and live in obedience to his commandments, so that we can experience true prosperity in all areas of our lives.
Preaching Outline on 1 Kings 1:2-3 – I go the way of all the earth: be strong therefore, and be a man. And keep the charge of the Lord thy God, to walk in his ways, and to keep his statutes, and his commandments, and his judgments, and his testimonies, as it is written in the law of Moses; that thou mayest prosper in all that thou doest, and whithersoever thou goest.
More Preaching Outlines
- The maturity of the Worker – 1 Kings 2:2
- Just work hard – Joshua 1:7
- Why do the righteous suffer? – Job 21:7-16
- Peace for Gideon – Judges 6:23
