A Moment With Pastor Fred

Kingdom & Covenant. That’s what we’ve entitled a new expository series beginning September 7 in the book of 1 Kings. I preached through 1-2 Samuel over 10 years ago. Our new study is the continuous narrative of the monarchy from when David handed the kingdom over to his son Solomon – and what transpired after. Israel’s fate is tied to the kings, and particularly whether or not they will treasure God’s covenant. Unfortunately, the answer will be a no – for the most part.

Why 1 Kings? The Apostle Paul answers that question in Rom 15:4. For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. In all the sadness and stupidity sin brings to this book, we as believers can benefit greatly from it today. A faithful king cultivates a faithful people, but when kings stray – God sends the prophets to call them and the nation back to repentance. There’s the hope.

The ESV Study Bible provides the themes we will discover in the months ahead: The Lord is the only true God; he controls history; he also demands exclusive worship. We will also see the consequences of false worship along with the promise God made to David – a dynasty of kings will follow. This is where the OT points to Christ. These kings, as inadequate as they were paved the road to the ultimate King who will rule on David’s throne forever. King Jesus has already ushered in a new covenant superior to the old.