1 Kings 1:28
“Then the king answered, and said, Call Bathsheba.”
Background:King David was the second king of Israel and a man after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). However, he had faced numerous challenges and made significant mistakes in his life, including his affair with Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah the Hittite, and the subsequent murder of Uriah (2 Samuel 11:1-27).
Study of 1 Kings 1:28:In this verse, we find an elderly King David nearing the end of his life. His son Adonijah had declared himself king without David’s knowledge or approval, which was a direct challenge to the throne designated for Solomon, David’s chosen successor (1 Kings 1:5-10). The prophet Nathan and Bathsheba, Solomon’s mother, understood the gravity of the situation and sought to inform David about Adonijah’s actions.
David’s command:“Call me Bathsheba”: King David instructs his attendants to bring Bathsheba into his presence. The mention of Bathsheba by name highlights the significance of her role in this particular situation.
Bathsheba’s involvement ensures that David receives accurate information and becomes aware of Adonijah’s attempt to seize the throne.
Bathsheba’s obedience:Bathsheba promptly responds to the king’s command and comes before him. Her obedience to David’s summons reveals her respect for him as the king and her commitment to ensuring Solomon’s rightful position as the next king of Israel. Bathsheba’s actions demonstrate her loyalty to David and her understanding of the Lord’s anointed succession plan.
Honoring God’s chosen plan:The events surrounding David’s succession emphasize the importance of honoring God’s appointed leaders and following His plan. David had already anointed Solomon as his successor (1 Chronicles 22:9-10), and Bathsheba’s actions in this verse align with God’s intended plan for the throne.
Obedience and respect:Bathsheba’s swift response to David’s summons exemplifies obedience and respect towards authority. As believers, we are called to demonstrate similar attitudes towards those in positions of authority, both in the church and in society (Romans 13:1; Ephesians 6:5; Hebrews 13:17).
Faithfulness and loyalty:Bathsheba’s faithfulness to David and her commitment to seeing God’s will fulfilled in Solomon’s life are noteworthy. Our faithfulness to God and His purposes can bring about great blessings and fulfill His plans in our lives.
The consequences of disobedience:Adonijah’s attempt to usurp the throne resulted in severe consequences for him (1 Kings 1:49-53). This serves as a reminder that rebellion against God’s established order leads to negative outcomes. It is essential to seek God’s will and submit to His authority rather than pursuing selfish ambitions.
Overall, 1 Kings 1:28 provides insights into the faithfulness, obedience, and respect that characterized Bathsheba’s actions in ensuring God’s appointed successor would take the throne. It also highlights the significance of honoring God’s plans and authority in our own lives.
