One greater than Solomon.
One greater than Solomon.
The faults of the human kings of Israel prophesy of the true King.
I’m currently in the middle of studying for my sermon series on 1 and 2 Kings. It is my purpose and intention to press into Christ as the one true King of kings throughout my examination of these historical works. Leave it to Rev. Alexander Maclaren, though, to perfectly encapsulate how to do that with the triumphant yet troubled reign of King Solomon.
The faults of the human kings of Israel prophesy of the true King, who is to be the substance of which they were but faint shadows, and whose manhood was stained by no flaw, nor His kingdom ever rent from His pure hands. Solomon was wise, but Christ is “Wisdom.” Solomon built a Temple, but also altars to false gods overtopping it across the valley; and his Temple was burned with fire. But Christ is the true Temple as well as Priest and Sacrifice. Solomon was by name “the peaceful,” and his land had outward rest, darkened at the last by war and rebellion. But Christ is the Prince of Peace, and of His dominion there shall be no end. Solomon is the great example of the sad truth that the loftiest and wisest share in the universal sinfulness. Christ is the one flawless Man, who makes those who take Him for their King wise and peaceful, prosperous, and in due time sinless, like Himself. (2:2.208)
Soli Deo Gloria. Amen.
Works cited:
Alexander Maclaren, Expositions of Holy Scripture, Vols. 1–17 (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1944).