The Rise and Ruin of Leadership
A Study Guide for Staying Faithful in a World That Forgets
1. Introduction: From Glory to Division
1 Kings opens with Solomon becoming king after David’s death.
It ends with a divided kingdom, a string of wicked kings, and a spiritual nation in decline.
The book covers about 120 years of Israel’s history—from Solomon’s reign to King Ahab’s.
Reflection: A strong beginning doesn’t guarantee a strong finish. Staying faithful takes more than wisdom—it takes obedience.
2. Solomon’s Wisdom and the Temple of the Lord
Solomon asks for wisdom and becomes known for his insight, wealth, and diplomacy (1 Kings 3).
He builds the Temple in Jerusalem—a permanent house of worship (1 Kings 6–8).
His dedication prayer (1 Kings 8) is one of the most heartfelt moments in Israel’s history.
Takeaway: God honors humble requests and sincere worship—but success often tests character more than hardship.
3. The Slow Drift of Compromise
Solomon marries foreign wives and allows idol worship into Israel (1 Kings 11).
His heart turns from God, and judgment is pronounced—his kingdom will be divided.
The nation’s disobedience begins at the top.
Lesson: Compromise doesn’t usually happen all at once. It begins with small disobedience tolerated in the name of convenience.
4. A Divided Kingdom
After Solomon’s death, the kingdom splits into Israel (north) and Judah (south).
Jeroboam becomes king of the north and immediately introduces idol worship to keep the people from returning to Jerusalem (1 Kings 12).
King after king follows, and most “did what was evil in the sight of the Lord.”
Encouragement: Even when nations and leaders fall, God’s Word stands. He always preserves a faithful remnant.
5. Elijah the Prophet: One Man Against a Corrupt Nation
Elijah bursts onto the scene in chapter 17 and becomes a bold voice for truth under wicked King Ahab and Queen Jezebel.
He confronts false prophets, calls down fire from heaven, prays for drought and rain, and even battles deep discouragement.
God meets Elijah in the silence—not the fire or wind (1 Kings 19).
Truth: God doesn’t need an army to defend His name—just one obedient servant. And even the boldest leaders need rest, reassurance, and God’s whisper.
6. Key Verses to Memorize or Meditate On
1 Kings 3:9 – “Give your servant therefore an understanding mind… to discern between good and evil.”
1 Kings 8:60 – “That all the peoples of the earth may know that the Lord is God; there is no other.”
1 Kings 11:4 – “When Solomon was old… his heart was not wholly true to the Lord his God.”
1 Kings 18:21 – “How long will you go limping between two different opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him.”
1 Kings 19:12 – “And after the fire the sound of a low whisper.”
7. Questions for Discussion or Journaling
What does Solomon’s story teach us about success, wisdom, and the dangers of compromise?
Why do you think spiritual decline often begins with leadership?
How can you guard your heart against a slow drift away from obedience?
What stood out to you most about Elijah’s courage—or his exhaustion?
How does God respond to Elijah’s honesty and despair? What does that reveal about God’s character?
Where might God be asking you to stand alone, speak boldly, or return to Him fully?