Who Was Rei in the Bible?
Man Living at the Time of the United Monarchy
Rei is a lesser-known figure mentioned during the United Monarchy period of Israel’s history. His story appears briefly in 1 Kings 1:8, in the context of the political intrigue surrounding the succession of King David’s throne. Despite the brevity of his mention, Rei’s involvement offers significant lessons about loyalty, authority, and the consequences of rebellion against God’s established order.
The Context of Rei’s Mention
Adonijah’s Attempt to Usurp the Throne
In 1 Kings 1:8, Rei is listed among the supporters of Adonijah, one of King David’s sons, who sought to declare himself king without David’s consent. The passage states: “But Zadok the priest, Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, Nathan the prophet, Shimei, Rei, and David’s mighty men were not with Adonijah” (1 Kings 1:8, ESV). This implies that while Adonijah had supporters, there were key figures, including Rei, who did not join in this unauthorized bid for power.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Importance of Loyalty and Submission to God’s Authority
Rei’s stance in the face of Adonijah’s rebellion highlights the importance of loyalty to God’s appointed leaders. While Adonijah sought to seize the throne through his own means, those loyal to David, including Rei, chose to wait for God’s ordained plan to unfold. For modern Christians, this serves as a reminder to respect and submit to the authorities God has placed in our lives, be it in the church, government, or other areas (Romans 13:1-2).
The Dangers of Ambition and Rebellion
Adonijah’s ambition and the ensuing rebellion underline the perils of seeking power contrary to God’s will. By refusing to join Adonijah, Rei exemplifies the need to align our actions with God’s purposes rather than our own ambitions. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths” (ESV). Christians today are encouraged to seek God’s guidance and wisdom in their decisions, ensuring they are in harmony with His will.
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Sovereignty in Leadership
Rei’s involvement, or rather his non-involvement in Adonijah’s rebellion, underscores God’s sovereignty in establishing leadership. God had already chosen Solomon, David’s other son, to succeed him as king (1 Chronicles 28:5). This divine choice was not based on human ambition but on God’s plan and purpose. This narrative reassures believers that God is in control and that His plans, even regarding leadership and authority, are perfect and just.
Trust in God’s Plan
The story of Rei and Adonijah also serves as a testament to the importance of trusting in God’s timing and plans. By not supporting Adonijah, Rei and the others demonstrated their trust in God’s chosen leader, Solomon. This encourages modern Christians to trust in God’s plan for their lives, even when it requires patience and faith in seemingly difficult circumstances.
Connection to Jesus Christ
Jesus as the Ultimate King
The intrigue surrounding the throne of Israel points to the greater truth of Jesus Christ as the ultimate King. Just as God chose Solomon over Adonijah, He also chose Jesus, from the line of David, to be the eternal King. In Luke 1:32-33, the angel Gabriel declares about Jesus: “He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end” (NIV). Jesus embodies the fulfillment of God’s promise of a perfect and everlasting kingdom.
The Perfect Example of Submission
Jesus’ life and ministry exemplify perfect submission to God’s will. Philippians 2:8 states, “And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!” (NIV). Jesus’ obedience and humility are the ultimate example for Christians, contrasting starkly with Adonijah’s self-seeking ambition. Believers are called to emulate Jesus’ submission to God’s will in their own lives.
Conclusion
Rei’s brief mention in 1 Kings 1:8, in the context of Adonijah’s failed attempt to usurp the throne, provides a significant lesson on the importance of loyalty, submission, and the dangers of ambition. His example encourages modern Christians to respect God’s established authorities, trust in His plans, and seek His guidance in all decisions. Moreover, Rei’s story points to the greater truth of God’s sovereignty and the ultimate kingship of Jesus Christ, who exemplifies perfect submission and obedience. Through these lessons, believers are reminded of the enduring importance of aligning their lives with God’s will, trusting in His perfect plan, and looking to Jesus as the ultimate model of faithful obedience.