1 Kings 1:7 – “Adonijah conferred with Joab son of Zeruiah and with Abiathar the priest, and they gave him their support.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In 1 Kings 1:7, we see Adonijah’s calculated move to gain political support as he attempts to claim the throne. Adonijah reaches out to Joab, the commander of Israel’s army, and Abiathar, the priest, both of whom agree to back him. This action shows that Adonijah is not just acting alone, but is forming a coalition to strengthen his bid for power. By securing the support of these influential figures, Adonijah seeks to legitimize his claim to kingship, even though David, his father, has not appointed him as the next king.
Historical Context
The political situation in Israel at this time was tense. King David was aging, and the issue of succession was a pressing concern. Typically, a king would appoint his successor, but David had not yet done so, creating an opportunity for ambitious figures like Adonijah to seize power. Joab and Abiathar were both powerful men who had served David loyally for many years, but their allegiance to Adonijah reveals a shift in the political landscape. By aligning with Adonijah, they likely saw an opportunity to maintain their influence in the new regime. However, their decision to support Adonijah was against the wishes of David and the plans of God, as Solomon had been chosen to succeed the throne.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse highlights the danger of pursuing power through alliances that are based on human ambition rather than seeking God’s will. Joab and Abiathar’s support for Adonijah was not rooted in righteousness or divine direction, but in political expediency. This shows the temptation leaders face to prioritize personal gain over God’s plan. The Bible consistently warns against the pursuit of power and position at the expense of integrity and faithfulness to God’s commands. In contrast, those who seek God’s will first are blessed with His guidance and protection.
Literary Analysis
This verse sets the stage for the power struggle that unfolds in 1 Kings 1. The mention of Joab and Abiathar’s names is significant because both figures had previously been loyal to David, yet now they align themselves with Adonijah. The shift in loyalty creates dramatic tension, showing how fragile human alliances can be. This verse also serves as a turning point in the narrative, marking the beginning of a broader conflict over the throne. The use of the phrase “they gave him their support” indicates the weight of their decision, as their backing would have carried significant influence among the people of Israel.
Biblical Cross-References
- Proverbs 16:9 – “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” This verse reminds us that, despite human plans and alliances, it is ultimately God who determines the outcome.
- 2 Samuel 15:12 – This passage describes how Absalom, another son of David, also gathered support for his rebellion, drawing a parallel between Absalom’s and Adonijah’s ambitions.
- Isaiah 31:1 – “Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, who rely on horses, who trust in the multitude of their chariots… but do not look to the Holy One of Israel, or seek help from the Lord.” This verse speaks to the folly of seeking human alliances instead of relying on God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s believers, this verse serves as a caution against seeking power or success through worldly means, especially by forming alliances that are based on ambition rather than integrity. It encourages Christians to be mindful of the company they keep and the decisions they make, ensuring that they align with God’s will and purpose rather than selfish goals. The verse also highlights the importance of discerning who we follow and support, as aligning with the wrong people can lead us away from God’s plan.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in His desire for His people to follow His guidance and trust in His plans, rather than relying on human strength or political maneuvering. Despite Adonijah’s attempts to seize the throne through alliances, God had already chosen Solomon to be the next king. God’s loving sovereignty means that He is in control, even when humans try to take matters into their own hands. His plans are always for the good of His people, and He desires that we trust Him rather than rely on worldly power.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Adonijah’s pursuit of power contrasts sharply with the example set by Jesus Christ. While Adonijah sought to secure his kingship through human alliances and ambition, Jesus demonstrated the opposite—humility and submission to God’s will. Jesus did not come to assert political power, but to serve and sacrifice for others. In Philippians 2:6-8, we see that Jesus “did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage,” but instead humbled Himself. Jesus’ path to kingship came through obedience and humility, not through self-promotion or political strategy.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Adonijah’s reliance on political alliances challenge us to consider who we trust and align ourselves with in life?
- In what ways are we tempted to pursue our own plans without seeking God’s direction first?
- How can we be more intentional about trusting in God’s sovereignty, rather than relying on human strategies or power?
- How does Jesus’ example of humility and submission to God’s will inspire us to live differently from the pursuit of worldly power?