1 Kings 9; 2 Chronicles 8; 1 Timothy 5
In contrast to David, whose life was filled with great hardships and trials from the beginning, Solomon, enjoying the blessings that God sent him for his father's sake, begins his reign with complete prosperity. His greatest challenge was building the temple. He knows no wars. The surrounding nations pay him tribute. By and large, he is still faithful to God, arranging the service in the temple as David commanded him (2 Chronicles 8:14) and personally participating in the service (2 Chronicles 8:12-13). However, even during this period, his life begins to decline subtly. This happens gradually in areas that are difficult to measure objectively. He increases chariots and horsemen, creating conditions where one can rely on one's strength instead of God's strength, thus violating the prohibition of the Mosaic law (Deuteronomy 17:16). Additionally, following the practice of kings of that time, Solomon marries Pharaoh's daughter, thus creating a political alliance with Egypt.
Such things may seem insignificant, but they were already laying the trajectory leading Solomon to self-confidence and long wanderings without God. This is why God again appears to him and warns of this danger.
1 Timothy 5
The first 16 verses describe the service to widows. Apparently, this is not about social status but a specific position or role in the church. Elderly widows without children who could care for them were taken under the church's care. They were given the responsibility of prayer ministry (1 Timothy 5:5) and good deeds (1 Timothy 5:10).
The second half of the chapter discusses the treatment of elders:
- They should be honored for their difficult and responsible work (1 Timothy 5:17);
- They should be cared for materially (1 Timothy 5:18);
- Accusations against elders should be approached with particular care (1 Timothy 5:19);
- If their sin is confirmed, they should be rebuked and corrected with particular seriousness (1 Timothy 5:20);
- Only tested brothers should be ordained for ministry. Hastiness in this matter is very dangerous (1 Timothy 5:22).
Such things may seem insignificant, but they were already laying the trajectory leading Solomon to self-confidence and long wanderings without God. This is why God again appears to him and warns of this danger.
1 Timothy 5
The first 16 verses describe the service to widows. Apparently, this is not about social status but a specific position or role in the church. Elderly widows without children who could care for them were taken under the church's care. They were given the responsibility of prayer ministry (1 Timothy 5:5) and good deeds (1 Timothy 5:10).
The second half of the chapter discusses the treatment of elders:
- They should be honored for their difficult and responsible work (1 Timothy 5:17);
- They should be cared for materially (1 Timothy 5:18);
- Accusations against elders should be approached with particular care (1 Timothy 5:19);
- If their sin is confirmed, they should be rebuked and corrected with particular seriousness (1 Timothy 5:20);
- Only tested brothers should be ordained for ministry. Hastiness in this matter is very dangerous (1 Timothy 5:22).
Posted in Reading Bible Together