Central Church of Christ

First Absalom. Now, Adonijah

Intro: David’s life is near its end. It seems troubles will be there, to the end. However, God’s help is near. God helps David through people. We can learn some things from this part of David’s life.

Read I Kings chapter 1

Questions

1. Because of David’s advanced age, what was done to help him? (I Kings 1:1-4)
2. Another of David’s sons, Adonijah, wanted to take his father’s place as king. How did he
proceed? (I Kings 1:5-10)
3. Which two people were trying to stop this from happening? (I Kings 1:11)
4. What reasons were given for trying to stop Adonijah? (I Kings 1:12,17)
5. Who ultimately has the final decision? (I Kings 1:20)
6. What was David’s decision? (I Kings 1:30)
7. What things did David say his successor should do, for a public display of the transition?
(I Kings 1: 33-35)
8. What things happened to let Adonijah, and his camp, know they were not chosen?
(I Kings 1: 41-48)
9. How did Adonijah and his camp respond? (I Kings 1:49-50)
10. How did David’s successor respond to Adonijah? (I Kings 1:52-53)

Discussion

1. Absalom and Adonijah were ambitious and had a long leash from their father. Explain.
2. Why do you think it took both Nathan and Bathsheba to influence David and his choice of
successor?
3. Whom did David ultimately thank for help with this whole process and transition?
4. Which verse shows this?