Passing the Torch

The Temple and the Fall of Solomon

1 Kings 5-11; 2 Chronicles 2-9 King Solomon builds his glorious temple, setting a monument that will be the focus for the religious life of Israel for centuries. He also fails Israel, building wealth and taking wives that will start a long, dark path for the nation. Season 4 ends on a dark note for the kings and kingdom.

The Ascent of King Solomon

1 Kings 1:11-4:34; 2 Chronicles 1 Solomon ascends to the throne. This is a king of unrivaled wealth and wisdom thanks to God's blessing. He eliminates his enemies, gets his request from Yahweh, and settles into his reign with aplomb.

Passing the Torch

1 Kings 1-2:10; 1 Chronicles 28-29 King David passes the kingdom to his chosen son Solomon.

The Reign of King David

2 Samuel 21-24; 1 Chronicles 20:4-27:34 David deals with a famine in the land, fights Philistine giants, causes a plague because of a sinful census, and prepares the transition to his son Solomon.

Absalom's Defeat and David's Restoration

2 Samuel 17:24-20 David gathers an army to face his son. Absalom's hair proves his undoing and David is restored to his capital. Yet another rebellion breaks out and is put down. Joab protects his position as commander.