REC: 1 Kings

Dynasties, fractured kingdom, prophecies of coming hardship - the book of 1
Kings is a grad, sweeping narrative of the beginning of the downfall of GodÆs
people. Its size and scope may seem intimidating, but Phil Ryken shows us in
the biblical, doctrinal, practical, and Christological commentary how this
imposing book can be divided into three keys sections.

First, the stories of Solomon focus on the themes of money, sex, and power,
inviting us to learn from SolomonÆs example. Will we use these things wisely
for kingdom purposes, or foolishly abuse them for shellfish gain? Then the
middle of the story, on the divided kingdom, shows the destructive consequences
of sin among the people of God - especially the sin of idolatry. The final
section demonstrates the power of prayer to the true and living God, as
exemplified in the life and ministry of GodÆs prophet Elijah.

Ryken brings out the key themes of these three sections and illustrates how
they come together in the focus on the gospel of Jesus Christ, especially his
kingly and prophetic offices. This is an excellent resource for those who want
a devotional aid and will help Bible expositors reliably teach a
redemptive-historical view of this important Old Testament book.

* Chapters 1û11: The stories of Solomon focus on the themes of money, sex, and
power: Will we use them wisely for kingdom purposes or foolishly abuse them for
selfish gain?
* Chapters 12û16: The material on the divided kingdom shows the destructive
consequences of sin among the people of Godùespecially the sin of idolatry.
* Chapters 17û22: These chapters demonstrate the power of prayer to the true
and living God, as exemplified in the life and ministry of God's man Elijah.

The focus throughout 1 Kings is on the gospel of Jesus Christ, especially in
his kingly and prophetic offices.

Sadly for many North American Christians the Old Testament is a dead book, " often treated merely as a foil against which to interpret the New Testament.
RykenÆs work goes much work goes much farther. The author, an accomplished
expositor and preacher, wrestles seriously with the form and message of 1 Kings
for its original audience, its place in redemptive history, and its
significance for today. This volume is a model of exposition, combining
thorough and responsible exegesis with a passion to communicate the life-giving
power of Old Testament Scriptures for the church. - Daniel I. Block"

Series: Reformed Expository Commentary.

Recommended € 34,90