Most people will not slow down to understand difficult passages like this. It deals with the architecture of Solomon’s Temple and uses unfamiliar words. But, for most of us, the passage is no more difficult than a description of a modern building by an architect. We would have to work to understand that as well. Be willing to look up some words and take time to understand the structure. Realize also that you will not be able to answer all your questions. However, your efforts will be rewarded. And your increased understanding of the Temple will prepare you to receive spiritual truths behind the physical structure. May the Lord help you in this special study.

This is a short passage but its statements can challenge the Bible student. Moses continues to bless the tribes of Israel before his death. In these verses, he blesses five of the tribes; six, if we count Joseph as the two tribes of Manasseh and Ephraim. Do not expect to understand all the statements of this passage the first time you study it. This is a passage to come back to as you grow in understanding.

David is in charge. As such, it is a day of forgiveness and mercy (Shimei and Mephibosheth). It is a day of grace and blessing (Barzillai and Chimham).

2 Samuel 17:14 stated that the Lord intended to bring evil upon Absalom and it comes to pass in this chapter. The proud one is caught by his head in an oak tree and is killed by Joab’s young armor bearers.

This chapter describes the glory that will one day come to God’s chosen city of Jerusalem. In much of the chapter, God is speaking directly to the city. Notice also how the earthly city is a picture and type of the heavenly Jerusalem that comes down in the book of Revelation (chapters 21 & 22).

This chapter continues the description of Solomon’s Temple and related items. In this passage, the molten sea is of special interest. There was nothing quite like it in the tabernacle of Moses. Notice also the great size of the items that do have parallels in the tabernacle.

Solomon began to build the temple for which he is famous. Here we learn of the general dimensions, the coverings, the cherubim, and the pillars. Most people tend to see portions of scripture like this as difficult and boring. However, many hidden treasures are reserved to those who take the time to look for them.

This chapter provides a beautiful picture of Jerusalem in the future kingdom age. The glory of the Lord will shine upon it and the Gentiles will come unto it. Jerusalem will be a place of prosperity and praise. It will be blessed with the glory of God and will be a joy of many generations.

Abner had killed Joab’s brother, Asahel, in battle. Joab cannot wait for the Lord but must exact his own vengeance.

Samuel, the gift of God to a praying mother, ministered in his early years. God worked in his life and used him mightily.