Q4. Retribution

[Pastor Ralph]

Q4. (1 Kings 2:13-46) Why doesn’t Solomon act more quickly against David’s enemies and his own? What does this indicate about Solomon? Do you think God is pleased with Solomon’s dealing with enemies in these ways? In an absolute monarchy, what are the balance points between protection of the throne (the state), justice, and mercy?

Bonus question: Jesus commanded his disciples, “Love your enemies” as a rule by which to conduct their lives. Can it (should it) be extended to affairs of the courts or of government?

[Lillie Ammann]

Solomon wants to have a specific reason to act against his enemies rather than just start executing people as soon as he sits on the throne. For example, he executed Shimei because he violated the agreement for him to stay in Jerusalem. Therefore, Solomon was punishing him for something he just did rather than what he did to David. I believe God was pleased with that because Solomon was considering each person's actions that he observed rather than hearsay, although David was telling the truth. It would be very hard to balance protection of the state, justice, and mercy. The protection of the state involves many people in the government and the safety of every person in the kingdom. The ruler can be just -- ensuring that wrongs are paid for in some way -- but merciful, by not giving harsher punishment than necessary, but the state must be protected. It would be merciful to let a repentant murderer walk free, but it would not be just, because it would devalue the life of the victim. And it would be dangerous to the state until the murderer proves that he has reformed. 

[Jonathan Edwards]

Solomon excercised prudence.  He waited for the proper time to take action.  Apostle Paul excercised prudence and tact.  Like Solomon, he was a man of prayer, and had a group of men that gave him wise counsel.  Book of Proverbs has a number of wise admonitions for matters of daily conduct.   Christ stated that we should be wise as serpents but gentle as doves.

Solomon acted accordingly.  He had men of God that gave him sound counsel.  Solomon did not act rashly: he consulted his advisors, and sought the Lord as king.  Solomon didn't act impulsively;  he waited until David's enemies actually transgressed during his kingship.

[Rolande]

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[Rolande]

Q4. (1 Kings 2:13-46) Why doesn’t Solomon act more quickly against David’s enemies and his own?  We read in 1 Kings 2:13-46, that King Solomon dealing with some individuals who posed threats to his reigh, including Adonijah, Abiator, Joab, and Shimel. While it might seem like Solomon didn't act swiftly against these threats, there are factors to consider ; 

Factor 1/Political stability :  " Then sat Solomon upon the throne of David his father; and his kingdom was established greatly." ( 1 Kings 2:12). 

Solomon's actions to consolidate his rule, including addressing potential threats to his reign, contribute to the stability of his kingdom. 

Factor 2/Legal procedures : " Now therefore, as the Lord liveth, which hath established me, and set me on the throne of david  my father, and who hath made me and house, as he promised, Adonijah shall put to death this day." (1 Kings 2: 24).

Solomon pronouncement of judgment against Adonijah reflects a legal decision made by the king. 

Factor 3/Strategies considerations : " And unto Abiatar the priest said the king, Get thee to Anathoth, unto the thine own fields; for thou art worthy of death: but I will not at this time put thee to death, because thou barest the ark of the Lord God before David my father, and because thou hast been afflicted in all wherein my father was afflicted."  (1 kings 2:26)  

Solomon's decision to allow Shimel to live but restrict his movements can be seen as strategic move to neutralize a potential threat while avoiding unnecessary conflict. 

Factor 4/Personal considerations: "And unto Abiatar the priest said the king, Get thee to Anathoth, unto the thine own fields; for thou art worthy of death: but I will not at this time put thee to death, because thou barest the ark of the Lord God before David my father, and because thou hast been afflicted in all wherein my father was afflicted."  (1 kings 2:26)

Solomon's consideration of Abiatar's past service to David and personal circumstances influences his decision regarding Abiathar's fate." 

Factor 5/Divine providence, guidance : " And king Solomon answered and said unto his mother, And why dost thou ask Abishag the Shunammite for Adonijah ? ask for him the kingdom also; for he is mine elder brother ; even for him, and for Abiathar the priest, and for Joab the son of Zeruiah." ( 1 Kings 2: 22). 

Solomon's actions in dealing with Adonijah, Abiatar, Joab and Shimel can be interpreted as fulfilling divine providence or God's will for His Kingdom. 

What does this indicate about Solomon?

Solomon's actions and decisions in King 2 reveal aspects of his character and leadership style.  Wisdom, justice, strategic, thinking, compassion, recognition of God providence. Overall, Solomon emerges as a wise, just and strategic leader who is committed to upholding principles of justice while navigating the complexities of gouvernance. 

Do you think God is pleased with Solomon’s dealing with enemies in these ways?

Regarding Solomon's dealings with enemies, it's essential to consider both his actions and their alignment with biblical principles. While Solomon took measures to protect his reign and maintain stability within the kingdom, such as addressing potential threats and upholding justice, there are instances where his decisions may have fallen short of God's command. For example, Solomon's use of political maneuvering and force to consolidate power, as seen in his handling of Adonijah and Joab, may have raised ethical concerns. Ultimately, God's assessment of Solomon's actions is not explicitly stated in the biblical narrative, leaving room for interpretation.

 

Let's compare the monarchy with Solomon's actions:

Authority and Power: In a monarchy, the monarch holds supreme authority and power over the state. Similarly, Solomon, as the king of Israel, wielded significant authority and power, governing the nation with absolute authority.
Responsibility to Govern: Monarchs have the responsibility to govern their realms, ensuring stability, justice, and prosperity. Solomon took on this responsibility by administering justice, consolidating his reign, and undertaking construction projects such as the Temple in Jerusalem.
Balance of Power: In some monarchies, there may be checks and balances to ensure that the monarch's power is not absolute. Similarly, Solomon balanced his authority with the need for justice, mercy, and diplomacy in his dealings with his subjects and neighboring nations.
Divine Right: In certain monarchies, rulers claim their authority comes from a divine source. Solomon's kingship was affirmed by God, who granted him wisdom and promised to establish his kingdom if he followed God's commands.
Succession and Inheritance: Monarchies often involve hereditary succession, with the crown passing from one generation to the next. Solomon inherited the throne from his father, David, as part of the Davidic dynasty, fulfilling God's promise to David.
Legacy and Impact: Monarchs leave behind legacies shaped by their actions and decisions. Solomon's reign is remembered for its prosperity, wisdom, and the construction of the Temple. However, his later disobedience and the division of the kingdom after his death also mark his legacy.
By comparing the monarchy with Solomon's actions, we can see parallels in terms of authority, responsibility, balance of power, divine legitimacy, succession, and legacy. Solomon's reign exemplifies many aspects of monarchy, both in its strengths and challenges.

[Rolande]

39 minutes ago, Rolande said:

Q4. (1 Kings 2:13-46) Why doesn’t Solomon act more quickly against David’s enemies and his own?  We read in 1 Kings 2:13-46, that King Solomon dealing with some individuals who posed threats to his reigh, including Adonijah, Abiator, Joab, and Shimel. While it might seem like Solomon didn't act swiftly against these threats, there are factors to consider ; 

Factor 1/Political stability :  " Then sat Solomon upon the throne of David his father; and his kingdom was established greatly." ( 1 Kings 2:12). Solomon's actions to consolidate his rule, including addressing potential threats to his reign, contribute to the stability of his kingdom. 

Factor 2/Legal procedures : " Now therefore, as the Lord liveth, which hath established me, and set me on the throne of david  my father, and who hath made me and house, as he promised, Adonijah shall put to death this day." (1 Kings 2: 24). Solomon pronouncement of judgment against Adonijah reflects a legal decision made by the king. 

Factor 3/Strategies considerations : " " And the king sent and called for Shimei, and said unto him, Build thee house in Jerusalem, and dwell there , and go not forth thence any whither."  (1 Kings 2:36) Solomon's decision to allow Shimel to live but restrict his movements can be seen as strategic move to neutralize a potential threat while avoiding unnecessary conflict. 

Factor 4/Personal  considerations:  "And unto Abiatar the priest said the king, Get thee to Anathoth, unto the thine own fields; for thou art worthy of death: but I will not at this time put thee to death, because thou barest the ark of the Lord God before David my father, and because thou hast been afflicted in all wherein my father was afflicted."  (1 Kings 2:26). Solomon's consideration of Abiatar's past service to david and personal circumstances influences his decision regarding Abiatars's fate.  

Factor 5/Divine providence, guidance : " And king Solomon answered and said unto his mother, And why dost thou ask Abishag the Shunammite for Adonijah ? ask for him the kingdom also; for he is mine elder brother ; even for him, and for Abiathar the priest, and for Joab the son of Zeruiah." ( 1 Kings 2: 22).   Solomon's actions in dealing with Adonijah, Abiatar, Joab and Shimel can be interpreted as fulfilling divine providence or God's will for His Kingdom. 

What does this indicate about Solomon?

Solomon's actions and decisions in King 2 reveal aspects of his character and leadership style.  Wisdom, justice, strategic, thinking, compassion, recognition of God providence. Overall, Solomon emerges as a wise, just and strategic leader who is committed to upholding principles of justice while navigating the complexities of gouvernance. 

Do you think God is pleased with Solomon’s dealing with enemies in these ways?

Regarding Solomon's dealings with enemies, it's essential to consider both his actions and their alignment with biblical principles. While Solomon took measures to protect his reign and maintain stability within the kingdom, such as addressing potential threats and upholding justice, there are instances where his decisions may have fallen short of God's command. For example, Solomon's use of political maneuvering and force to consolidate power, as seen in his handling of Adonijah and Joab, may have raised ethical concerns. Ultimately, God's assessment of Solomon's actions is not explicitly stated in the biblical narrative, leaving room for interpretation.

Let's compare the monarchy with Solomon's actions:

Authority and Power: In a monarchy, the monarch holds supreme authority and power over the state. Similarly, Solomon, as the king of Israel, wielded significant authority and power, governing the nation with absolute authority.
Responsibility to Govern: Monarchs have the responsibility to govern their realms, ensuring stability, justice, and prosperity. Solomon took on this responsibility by administering justice, consolidating his reign, and undertaking construction projects such as the Temple in Jerusalem.
Balance of Power: In some monarchies, there may be checks and balances to ensure that the monarch's power is not absolute. Similarly, Solomon balanced his authority with the need for justice, mercy, and diplomacy in his dealings with his subjects and neighboring nations.
Divine Right: In certain monarchies, rulers claim their authority comes from a divine source. Solomon's kingship was affirmed by God, who granted him wisdom and promised to establish his kingdom if he followed God's commands.
Succession and Inheritance: Monarchies often involve hereditary succession, with the crown passing from one generation to the next. Solomon inherited the throne from his father, David, as part of the Davidic dynasty, fulfilling God's promise to David.
Legacy and Impact: Monarchs leave behind legacies shaped by their actions and decisions. Solomon's reign is remembered for its prosperity, wisdom, and the construction of the Temple. However, his later disobedience and the division of the kingdom after his death also mark his legacy.
By comparing the monarchy with Solomon's actions, we can see parallels in terms of authority, responsibility, balance of power, divine legitimacy, succession, and legacy. Solomon's reign exemplifies many aspects of monarchy, both in its strengths and challenges.

 

[David H Lyabaya]

King Solomon doesn't act quickly to finish his enemies because He wanted to establish himself as King first then act. 

[Krissi]

All political transfers of power -- including that of Western leaders -- are accompanied by purging of people loyal to the competitor/opposer and putting one's own people into their influential positions. In ancient times, such purging didn't merely remove sinecures or jobs, but included killing one's political rivals. So, Solomon's behavior, though it seems quite harsh today, was rather run-of-the-mill for his time.

What's remarkable, then, was Solomon's restraint. He patiently waited until his power had consolidated. He also waited for his enemies to trip themselves, which they did. This was not only politically clever as it ingratiated and gained the loyalty of the lower-ranked followers of Solomon's three big enemies, as well as being, according to scripture, God's intention.

(I wonder why David didn't kill these three individuals himself? Why did he off-load that responsibility onto Solomon?)

The balance, as I see it, isn't between the "protection of the throne" and justice, but a calculus between a raw, Machiavellian exercise of power and a more merciful exercise of justice. God/Solomon opted to consolidate Solomon's power against those who would challenge it. No mercy was shown. It was assumed that once a person had been disloyal, that person would forever be untrustworthy. 

It appears God was pleased with this calculus. 

[Nicolaas A.P. Mostert]

Q4. (1 Kings 2:13-46)

Why doesn't Solomon act more quickly against David's enemies and his own?

David asks Solomon to settle some wrongs that David couldn't settle himself in his own lifetime due to various vows and promises. These people are dangerous to Solomon's authority just as they were to David's.

What does this indicate about Solomon?

That Solomon was wise.

Do you think God is pleased with Solomon's dealing with enemies in these ways?

Yes, because it is in a more peaceful way.

In an absolute monarchy, what are the balance points between protection of the throne (the state), justice, and mercy?

The balance points are to maintain a trustworthy character towards the citizens and specially towards GOD that has place him in that kingship position.  

[hanks]

Q4. (1 KINGS 2:13-46) 
Why doesn't Solomon act more quickly against David's enemies and his own? What does this indicate about Solomon? Do you think God is pleased with Solomon's dealing with enemies in these ways? In an absolute monarchy, what are the balance points between protection of the throne (the state), justice, and mercy? 
The way Solomon acts against both his father’s and his own enemies show the young king’s mercy and wisdom. Nothing done in haste or without due consideration. All kings have to initially establish their throne by getting rid of all threats and enemies. And it is because of his wise handling of these threats to the throne that the kingdom was firmly established in Solomon’s hands. Yes, God is pleased with the way he dealt with the enemies as it shows that Solomon would build his kingdom on justice. In the same way any evil threat to an absolute monarchy has to be eliminated. Only these acts of justice can assure the domestic peace of a kingdom. 
 

[Katy]

Q4. Solomon is a young but wise king. He is a man of peace. He wants to establish his kingdom. He starts by being merciful. He doesn’t rush in and cause a blood bath, to get rid of his enemies and to settle the situations he has inherited from his father. He knows his enemies will more than likely do other acts of disloyalty or disobedience and then he will be seen to be punishing crimes that warrant punishment. I think God was pleased with the way Solomon handled these situations, because he dealt with each situation as it arose, Solomon didn’t rush in and cause a bloodbath to seek revenge immediately. 
The State or Kingdom has to be protected from those who do things that are wrong. A murderer cannot be allowed to be free , the victim’s family deserve justice. A child molester cannot be allowed to roam free without being treated for their addiction. Etc. However the law of the land must not be too harsh but the punishment must fit the crime.

[Niyonka16]

Q4. (1 Kings 2:13-46) Why doesn’t Solomon act more quickly against David’s enemies and his own?

ANSWER: The story of Solomon teach us that Solomon's life shows us something very important. Wisdom helps us only if we use it. The realism of Solomon's troubles and failures may be one of his most important contributions to us. Through Solomon's foolishness we see that all of the wisdom in the world does not change our human nature.

What does this indicate about Solomon?

ANSWER:Solomon did not begin hating the life he was living until he walked away from the presence of God and broke fellowship with Him, because of his idolatry. He then began living in a sinful, rebellious state in which he was alienated from God.

Do you think God is pleased with Solomon’s dealing with enemies in these ways?

ANSWER: The basis for Christian faith and practice, provides the following guidance on relationships with those considered an enemy: "You have heard the law that says, 'Love your neighbor' and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies!" (Matthew 5:43-44) Love our enemies?

In an absolute monarchy, what are the balance points between protection of the throne (the state), justice, and mercy?

ANSWER: Absolute monarchy is a system of government where the ultimate authority to run the state is in the hands of a king, dictator, or monarch who rules by their own right, such as by divine right. Absolute monarchy is also called absolutism.

ABSOLUTE MONARCHS believed in DIVINE RIGHT (the idea that God created the monarchy and that the monarch acted as God's representative on earth.) An ABSOLUTE MONARCH answered only to God, not to his or her subjects. Their goal was to control every aspect of society. In an absolute monarchy, the monarch wields all Executive, Legislative, and Judicial power. An absolute monarchy is a form of government in its own right.

Absolute monarchs justified their rule philosophically through the doctrine of the divine right of kings. The four primary features of absolute monarchs are waging war, taxing, control of religions, and passing laws. Absolute monarchies were most often justified by two factors; hereditary rule and divine right to power.

The pros and cons of absolute monarchy reveal that while it is perhaps the most efficient form of government, speed in governing is not always a good thing for the governed. The unlimited power of the monarchy can result in oppression, social unrest, and tyranny.

 

 

[Clelie]

After the death of his father king David, Solomon knew his rule was firmly established . He did not carry out the executions of the enemies of his father soon after his death but waited for opportunities that would bring the justification of these  acts which he did in wisdom .God was pleased with the way Salomon because he acted in wisdom.

In an absolute monarchy, fear of enmity towards the kingdom safety , justice and mercy are sometimes overlooked.

 

 

 

[Irmela]

Q4. (1 Kings 2:13-46)

Why doesn't Solomon act more quickly against David's enemies and his own?   Solomon was very young when he was crowned as king.  He needed to still be firmly established as king in the eyes of his subjects.  Yes, he was recognized as chosen by king David but the people still needed to learn to trust him and truly recognize him as their king, capable of ruling over them.  

Joab and Abiathar had been with David for a long time.  It was when they did not agree with David's decision that they defected to the other side.  The latest having been with Adonijah.  Joab also followed his own decision when he killed Absalom, against David's commands.  The first time was where he killed Abner, who I personally feel that he just did not trust.  So we find that he was true to David but very harsh and not really showing mercy.  Unfortunately because David had shown that he trusted Abner, Joab's act of killing him, almost made David look like being suspect in his trust of Abner.  Like he was leading him on to fall into Joab's hands, to be killed.  Joab's actions thus needed to be dealt with.   

It was not an easy thing to sort out, but Solomon needed to get his own group of trusted people behind him.  So far Joab and Abiathar had proved that they favoured Adonijah over him.  This was a dangerous situation.  Would he ever be able to trust them?  Solomon thus gave them time to prove where their loyalties actually lay.   Only once their actions were suspect did he act and have them dealt with.

What does this indicate about Solomon? He was wise and merciful in his dealing with situations.  He was not hasty in making a decision but thought the whole situation through properly before carrying out "justice" in a situation.  

Do you think God is pleased with Solomon's dealing with enemies in these ways?  I don't see why not.  The person is given a chance to prove himself so real justice can be meted out.  

In an absolute monarchy, what are the balance points between protection of the throne (the state), justice, and mercy?  Safety for the subjects is important, so justice needs to be meted out to the perpetrators.  Where a change of heart is noted or possibly misunderstanding have wrought disaster, mercy and justice needs to be shown in such a way that it really is not one-sided but clearly seen to be justice in the merciful dealings meted out.  

[Janzie]

On 3/18/2024 at 7:13 PM, Pastor Ralph said:

Q4. (1 Kings 2:13-46) Why doesn’t Solomon act more quickly against David’s enemies and his own? What does this indicate about Solomon? Do you think God is pleased with Solomon’s dealing with enemies in these ways? In an absolute monarchy, what are the balance points between protection of the throne (the state), justice, and mercy?

 

Solomon does not begin his reign by executing his and his father's enemies in a large bloodbath. Rather he waits for them to disobey his restrictions or show disloyalty, thus giving a Solomon a public excuse to execute them. Wise!

This indicates that Solomon was patient and wise and would carry out these vows at the proper time.

Yes, because the person was given a second chance and shown mercy and Solomon saw through their motives.

Balance points between protection of the throne, justice and mercy, in that The throne was protected in David's time and Solomon's time, justice and mercy was brought to those who wanted to be king instead of those who were appointed by God. 

[Old Jerry]

I think the reason that Solomon didn’t more quickly against David’s enemies because he didn’t want it to look like a bloodbath. This indicates that Solomon had great wisdom. I don’t know if God was pleased in the way that Solomon dealt with his enemies. But I thinking that He probably was. I think that the way that Solomon dealt with the monarchy was as balanced as any human being could deal with it.