Solomon in Living Color

In this opening message of the life of Solomon, Chuck Swindoll introduces the concept of "incarnating the truth"—teaching biblical principles not as abstract theories, but through the lived experiences of biographical figures. While King David was a man of war who secured the borders, his son Solomon stepped into "big sandals" by inheriting a kingdom of immense peace, prosperity, and promise,. Rather than focusing on Solomon's tragic end, this message highlights the "bright, beautiful dawn" of his early reign. Despite growing up in a dysfunctional palace environment marked by polygamy and political intrigue, Solomon emerged as a young man walking with God, likely under the tutelage of the prophet Nathan,. The sermon details Solomon’s rise to power, focusing on God’s divine favor. When God presented Solomon with a "blank check" at Gibeon, asking what he desired, the young king humbly requested wisdom and knowledge to rule uprightly rather than wealth or long life,. God honored this request by granting him unequaled wisdom, along with the riches and honor he did not ask for. Chuck Swindoll concludes by applying the "benefits" of God found in Psalm 103 to the modern believer. Just as Solomon was gifted, Christians are urged to cultivate their minds, appreciate their stability during difficult times, accept God-given possessions without guilt, and lead the way in the arts and creativity for God's glory,,.

Message Key Facts:

• The Principle of Biography: The most effective way to communicate truth is to "incarnate" it—demonstrating faith through Abraham or the consequences of lust through Samson, rather than teaching them as abstract concepts.
• Significance of Names: David named his son Solomon (derived from *Shalom*), meaning "Peaceable," symbolizing the rest David needed. However, the Lord sent word through Nathan to name him **Jedidiah**, meaning "Loved by Jehovah",.
• Overcoming Dysfunction: Solomon grew up in a "pandemonium" of suspicion, polygamy, and murder (including the rape of Tamar and Absalom's rebellion). Yet, through the likely mentorship of Nathan, he overcame his environment to walk with God,.
• The Gift of Breadth: In addition to wisdom, God gave Solomon "breadth of mind like the sand that is on the seashore," allowing him to manage the vast complexities of the nation with discernment and strength of character.
• Immense Wealth: Solomon’s annual income was 666 talents of gold (estimated at the time of the sermon between $20 and $25 million). He established a trade fleet that brought gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks every three years.
• A "Blank Check" from God: When God told Solomon, "Ask what I shall give you," Solomon proved his character by asking for wisdom to govern the people rather than riches or the death of his enemies,.

Message References:

• 1 Kings 1:28–40: David commands the coronation of Solomon, fulfilling his vow to Bathsheba.
• 2 Samuel 12:24–25: The birth of Solomon and his naming as Jedidiah,.
• 1 Chronicles 29:23: Solomon sits on the throne of the Lord and prospers.
• 2 Chronicles 1:7–12: God appears to Solomon at Gibeon; Solomon asks for wisdom and knowledge.
• 1 Kings 4:20–29: A description of the peace, daily provisions, and "breadth of mind" given to Solomon,.
• 1 Kings 10 / 2 Chronicles 9: The visit of the Queen of Sheba and the extent of Solomon's wealth,.
• Psalm 103:2: The call to "forget none of His benefits," used as the framework for the application regarding minds, stability, possessions, and the arts.

Message Speaker:

Pastor Chuck Swindoll