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The First Book of Kings

The Book of 1 Kings tells the story of what happened after King David died. His son Solomon became the new king of Israel. At first, things went well. Solomon asked God for wisdom, and he ruled with fairness. He built a great temple in Jerusalem, where people came to worship God. But later, Solomon made some bad choices. He married women from other nations who worshiped false gods. He let them bring their idols into Israel, and he even began to follow their ways.

After Solomon died, the kingdom of Israel split into two parts. The northern part kept the name Israel. The southern part was called Judah. Many kings ruled after that, but most of them did not follow God’s ways. They led the people away from the truth. A few kings tried to do what was right, but it was hard. The people often forgot the covenant they made with God.

God sent prophets to speak to the people and the kings. The prophets warned them to stop worshiping idols and turn back to the Lord. One of the most well-known prophets in this book is Elijah. He stood up to King Ahab and Queen Jezebel, who led Israel into idol worship. Elijah showed that the Lord is the true God, even when most people had turned away.

1 Kings teaches us what happens when leaders do not listen to God. It also shows how God keeps reaching out, even when people sin. This book reminds us that faithfulness matters. It calls us to trust the Lord, even when others around us do not.

Who Wrote 1 Kings and What Was Happening Then?

The stories in 1 Kings take place about 900 years before Jesus was born. This was a time when the people of Israel were living in the land God had given them. They had kings, cities, armies, and places of worship. Solomon was the first king mentioned in this book. He ruled a united kingdom. But after him, the kingdom broke into two parts.

People think that 1 Kings was written many years after the events happened. It was likely written when the people of Judah were living far from home in exile. They had been taken away to Babylon. During that hard time, they wanted to understand how things had gone so wrong. They wanted to remember their history and learn from it.

The author is not named in the book. But most believe it was written by someone who knew Israel’s laws and stories very well. This person may have used old records, stories, and reports to put the book together. The goal was to show what happened when the kings and people followed God—and what happened when they didn’t.

This book is more than just a list of kings. It tells a story about choices, faith, and what it means to follow God. The people needed to hear this during the exile. We need to hear it too.

Stories, Kings, and Prophets

The Book of 1 Kings is written like a history book, but it also reads like a story. It tells what happened to the kings of Israel and Judah. It shows how they ruled, what choices they made, and how those choices affected the people. Some kings were good. Most were not.

There are many characters in the book. Some are kings. Others are prophets. Prophets are messengers from God. The most famous one in 1 Kings is Elijah. He speaks with courage and faces danger. His story adds excitement and drama to the book. He is not a king, but he is one of the main voices in the story.

The writer uses simple scenes to show big lessons. Sometimes the action is fast, like in a battle. Other times it slows down for a prayer or a message from God. The stories are short and clear. They help the reader see what happens when people follow God—and what happens when they do not.

This book does not use fancy words or deep talks. It tells the truth through people’s actions. It lets us watch their choices. Then we can think about our own. The style is simple, but the lessons are clear.

Faith, Failure, and God’s Faithfulness

1 Kings shares many important lessons that connect with Catholic teaching. It reminds us of the importance of faith, prayer, and staying close to God. It also shows what happens when we turn away from Him.

  • Faithfulness to God: The book shows that worshiping the one true God matters. When the people followed false gods, they suffered. When they trusted the Lord, they were blessed.
  • The importance of prayer: Solomon’s prayer at the temple is a good example. He asks God to listen to His people and forgive them. Catholics are called to pray often and ask God for help and mercy.
  • Leadership matters: Good kings led the people toward God. Bad kings led them away. This reminds us that leaders should serve others and listen to God’s voice. Catholics are called to pray for leaders in the Church and in the world.
  • God keeps reaching out: Even when the people sinned, God did not give up on them. He sent prophets like Elijah to guide them back. This shows us that God is patient and wants to help us return when we fall.

These themes remind us of God’s love and mercy. They call us to stay close to Him and trust His ways, even when others turn away.

Breaking Down the Book

The Book of 1 Kings is made up of 22 chapters. It covers many years and several rulers. The stories are grouped into different parts. Each part shows a new stage in Israel’s history.

Here is a simple way to look at the book:

  • Chapters 1–2: Solomon becomes king. These chapters show how he takes the throne after David and deals with his enemies.
  • Chapters 3–11: Solomon’s reign. These chapters tell about his wisdom, the building of the temple, and how he later turns away from God.
  • Chapters 12–16: The kingdom splits. Rehoboam rules Judah in the south. Jeroboam rules Israel in the north. Both kingdoms struggle with sin.
  • Chapters 17–22: Elijah the prophet. These chapters focus on Elijah and his fight against false gods. He speaks boldly to kings and calls people back to God.

Each section helps us see what happens when people listen to God—and what happens when they don’t. The book moves from peace to trouble, from glory to division. But through it all, God stays present, working to bring His people back.

Kings in 1 Kings and Their Kingdoms

Here is a list of the main kings mentioned in the Book of 1 Kings and the kingdom they ruled:

United Kingdom (before the split):

  • David – King at the beginning of the book (mentioned during the transition to Solomon)
  • Solomon – Ruled all of Israel before the kingdom split

Kingdom of Judah (Southern Kingdom):

  • Rehoboam – Solomon’s son; first king of Judah after the split
  • Abijam (Abijah) – Rehoboam’s son; king of Judah
  • Asa – Abijam’s son; king of Judah who often followed the Lord
  • Jehoshaphat – Son of Asa; tried to follow God and brought peace

Kingdom of Israel (Northern Kingdom):

  • Jeroboam – First king of the northern kingdom; led the split
  • Nadab – Jeroboam’s son
  • Baasha – Took the throne after Nadab
  • Elah – Baasha’s son
  • Zimri – Ruled briefly after Elah
  • Omri – Became king after a struggle for power
  • Ahab – Son of Omri; married Jezebel and led Israel into idol worship

These kings show the difference between those who tried to follow God and those who turned away. Most of the kings in Israel did not follow God’s ways. Some kings in Judah were faithful, but not all.

Why 1 Kings Still Matters Today

Even though 1 Kings is an old book, it still speaks to us now. It shows us how easy it is to forget God when life feels busy or when other things seem more important. Many people today still turn to false idols—like money, power, or fame. 1 Kings reminds us that these things do not last. Only God is faithful.

This book also teaches us about prayer. Solomon’s prayer in the temple shows us how to speak to God with trust. Just like him, we can pray for wisdom. We can ask God to guide us in our choices. Prayer connects us with Him, just like it did back then.

1 Kings helps us think about leadership. Good leaders care for others. They listen to God. Bad leaders look out for themselves. In our homes, schools, churches, and world, we all need leaders who follow what is right. We should pray for them and try to be good examples too.

Most of all, this book teaches us that God does not give up. Even when the people turned away, God sent help. He sent prophets to remind them of the truth. God is patient with us too. He keeps calling us back, even when we stray. That is a message we always need to hear.

1 Kings at Mass

Parts of 1 Kings are read at Mass during the year. These readings come from both daily Mass and Sunday Mass. They help us learn from the stories of Solomon, Elijah, and others.

One of the most well-known readings is from 1 Kings 3. It tells how Solomon asked God for wisdom. . It teaches us to ask God for what really matters.

Stories about the prophet Elijah also appear often. For example, 1 Kings 17 tells how God fed Elijah during a time of drought. Another reading from chapter 19 tells how Elijah heard God in a small whisper.

These readings remind us that God is always at work, even in quiet ways. The stories from 1 Kings help us grow in faith and trust. When we hear them at Mass, we are invited to listen and respond just like the people of old.

Click on a link below for more information and resources for a specific reading.

17th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A

Solomon’s Surprising Request

In 1 Kings 3:5, 7-12, God speaks to Solomon in a dream and tells him he can ask for anything. Solomon is young and new to being king. Instead of asking for riches or power, he asks for wisdom. He wants to lead the people with fairness and make good choices.

God is pleased with this request. Because Solomon asked for something good, God promises to give him wisdom unlike any other. He will also give him blessings he didn’t ask for. This reading shows us the value of asking for what helps others, not just ourselves. It also reminds us that God listens when we pray with a humble heart.

9th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

A Prayer for the Stranger

In 1 Kings 8:41-43, Solomon prays during the dedication of the Temple. He asks God to hear the prayers of foreigners who come to worship. Even if they are not part of Israel, Solomon wants God to welcome them when they call on His name.

This prayer shows that God’s love is not just for one group. Solomon hopes all people will come to know and honor God. This reminds us that faith is for everyone. We are called to welcome others, just as God listens to all who seek Him.

32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

God Provides in Hard Times

In 1 Kings 17:10-16, the prophet Elijah meets a poor widow during a time of drought. She is gathering sticks to make one last meal for herself and her son. She has only a little flour and oil left. Elijah asks her to make him some food first and promises that God will take care of her.

The woman trusts Elijah’s message and does what he says. Just as promised, her jar of flour and jug of oil never run out. She and her son have enough to eat every day. This story reminds us that when we trust God, even in hard times, He provides what we need.

10th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

Elijah Prays for a Child’s Life

In 1 Kings 17:17-24, the son of the widow who helped Elijah becomes very sick and dies. The woman is upset and wonders if this is a punishment. Elijah takes the boy and brings him upstairs. He prays to God and asks for the child’s life to return.

God hears Elijah’s prayer, and the boy comes back to life. Elijah brings him back to his mother. She is filled with trust and now knows Elijah truly speaks for God. This story shows that God listens to prayer and cares about our pain. It also shows the power of faith and trust during loss.

19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Food for the Journey

In 1 Kings 19:4-8, the prophet Elijah feels tired and alone. He runs into the desert and sits under a tree. He tells God he has had enough and wants to give up. Then he falls asleep.

An angel wakes him up and gives him food and water. Elijah eats, then rests again. The angel returns and tells him to eat more, because the journey ahead is long. Strengthened by the food, Elijah walks for forty days to the mountain of God. This story reminds us that God cares for us when we feel weak and gives us what we need to keep going.

19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A

Listening for God

In 1 Kings 19:9A, 11-13A, Elijah hides in a cave, feeling afraid and alone. God tells him to stand outside because He is about to pass by. Elijah waits and watches.

There is a strong wind, then an earthquake, and then a fire. But God is not in any of those. After all the noise, there is a small, quiet sound. Elijah knows God is there. This story shows us that God does not always come in loud or big ways. Sometimes He speaks to us in stillness and silence. We must learn to listen.

13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

A New Prophet Is Called

In 1 Kings 19:16B, 19-21, God tells Elijah to choose Elisha as the next prophet. Elijah finds Elisha working in a field with oxen. Elijah places his cloak on him, which is a sign that Elisha is being called.

Elisha leaves everything behind. He says goodbye to his family and burns his plow. He even cooks the oxen to share with others. Then he follows Elijah. This story shows us how Elisha gave up his old life to follow God’s call. When God calls, we are invited to trust and take that first step.

Selections from the First Book of Kings are also read at weekday Masses.

Resources

The Cost of a Distant Father

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Kings 1. He explains that David is now old and unaware of the actions of his son Adonijah. Adonijah tries to make himself king without David’s knowledge. This shows how David has lost touch with his own family.

Fr. Mike says that while David was a great warrior and leader, he struggled as a father. He didn’t correct or guide his sons. This failure at home is a theme that carries over from 2 Samuel. It becomes even more clear here in 1 Kings.

Bathsheba and Nathan step in to help fix the situation. They remind David of his promise that Solomon would be king. David listens to them and acts quickly. He orders Solomon to be anointed and declared king.

This moment becomes the turning point in the chapter. Fr. Mike says it shows how others had to push David to lead his family. It also highlights the importance of paying attention to what happens at home. Leadership in public life means little if we ignore our responsibilities at home.

Fr. Mike reminds us that having gifts like strength, talent, or wisdom isn’t enough. We must use those gifts to do good and obey God. David’s story is a warning for all of us. We can’t ignore the people we are called to care for.

Fathers, Sons, and the Throne

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Kings 2. David gives his final instructions to Solomon before he dies. He tells Solomon to stay faithful to God and also to deal with certain people who had caused trouble. Fr. Mike says David is passing on hard-earned wisdom from his own struggles.

Fr. Mike points out that David gave good advice but didn’t always set the right example. David’s heart was divided, and he was distant from his children. Solomon will follow his father’s example more than his words. This shows the power of how we live, not just what we say.

Fr. Mike also talks about Adonijah asking for Abishag. It seems like a small request, but it’s really a power move. He says Bathsheba likely knew it was a trick and used it to warn Solomon.

Fr. Mike notices how Solomon treats his mother with great honor. He stands when she enters and gives her a seat at his right hand. He explains this shows how the queen in ancient Israel was the king’s mother, not his wife.

This leads Fr. Mike to a reflection on Mary. He says Solomon’s actions help us understand why Catholics honor Mary as the Queen Mother. She is not equal to Jesus, but she has a special place of honor in his kingdom.

Wise but Wobbly

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Kings 3. Solomon asks God for wisdom, not riches or power. Fr. Mike explains that God is pleased with this request and gives Solomon wisdom, along with wealth and honor.

Fr. Mike highlights Solomon’s wise judgment between the two women and the baby. He says this story shows Solomon using the gift God gave him. It’s a strong example of his ability to tell right from wrong.

But Fr. Mike also points out a warning sign. Solomon marries Pharaoh’s daughter, which shows he is forming alliances in ways that go against God’s plan. This small choice will lead to bigger problems later.

Fr. Mike says wisdom alone is not enough. Solomon knows what is right, but he won’t always do it. We need God’s help not just to be wise, but to live in the truth and follow it.

Wisdom, Leadership, and a Lot of Bread

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Kings 4. He points out how Solomon surrounds himself with wise leaders. He doesn’t try to rule alone. Instead, he delegates authority across different regions, not by tribe, but by geography.

Fr. Mike explains that this setup helps unite the people of Israel. It lessens division and builds a sense of shared responsibility. He compares this to how the Church today is one family, even when we attend different parishes.

He also highlights how much food Solomon needed each day to feed his household. It shows the size and strength of his kingdom. Fr. Mike notes that this wasn’t just for Solomon, but for many people being cared for under his rule.

Finally, Fr. Mike talks about Solomon’s wisdom. People came from all over to hear him speak. He says Solomon’s fame and knowledge were unmatched, but it all came from the gift that God gave him.

Building the Temple and Warning Signs

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Kings 5. He explains how Solomon begins the temple project by working with King Hiram of Tyre. Hiram sends cedar wood and workers. Fr. Mike says it’s interesting that Hiram praises God, even though he is not an Israelite.

Fr. Mike points out that the temple is more than just a building. It is where God’s presence will live and where the people will worship. He reminds us that worship must happen the way God asks. Worship is not about us—it’s about God.

Fr. Mike also says Solomon is doing something good, but cracks are starting to show. Solomon uses a lot of labor and begins building up a large kingdom. These choices seem wise, but they may lead him away from God later on.

This part of 1 Kings shows both success and risk. Fr. Mike warns that even wise people can go off track. Obedience matters more than what looks smart.

Gold, Silence, and the Temple

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Kings 6. He explains how Solomon builds the temple with great care and beauty. Everything is covered in cedar and gold. The building is full of carved flowers, palm trees, and cherubim.

Fr. Mike points out a small detail that matters. The stones were shaped at the quarry, not at the temple site. That means there was no sound of hammer or chisel at the temple. This silence showed respect for God’s house.

Fr. Mike says all the gold and art were for God alone. Most people would never see the inside of the temple. Still, everything was made beautiful for the Lord, not for show. He says we should give our best to God even if no one else sees it.

He ends by asking a hard question. Are we just giving the appearance of faith, or is it real? Fr. Mike warns that Solomon’s golden shields looked strong but were useless in battle. He urges us to be real in our love for God, not just look the part.

Solomon Builds Big

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Kings 7. He explains that Solomon is busy building. After working on the temple, Solomon now builds his own house and other buildings. This shows Solomon as a builder, not just a king.

Fr. Mike highlights the work of Hiram, the bronze worker. Hiram creates beautiful pillars and decorations for the temple. The details remind us how much care and skill went into God’s house.

Fr. Mike points out that 1 Kings shows how grand the temple was. There are many gold and bronze items. Everything was carefully made to honor God.

Fr. Mike says this chapter shows both beauty and work. It helps us see that Solomon’s job wasn’t finished with the temple. He kept building, and each piece had meaning.

God’s Glory Fills the Temple

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Kings 8. He focuses on the dedication of the temple. Solomon brings the Ark of the Covenant into the temple the right way—with priests and Levites carrying it.

Fr. Mike notes that the ark only holds the tablets of the covenant. The other items, like the manna and Aaron’s staff, are gone. He says the Bible doesn’t explain where they went, but it shows a shift in focus.

He also talks about the cloud of God’s presence. The priests couldn’t do their work because the glory of the Lord filled the temple. Fr. Mike says God’s presence can be quiet, but it can also be strong and overwhelming.

Solomon’s prayer shows that the temple will be the center of worship. Fr. Mike points out that this moment makes Jerusalem the main place for the people to turn back to God.

God Speaks Again to Solomon

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Kings 9. He says the chapter is a kind of review. It repeats some things already seen in 2 Chronicles. It shows us more of Solomon’s actions near the end of his reign.

Fr. Mike points out that God appears to Solomon a second time. God reminds him to stay faithful and obey His commands. If Solomon turns to other gods, things will fall apart. Fr. Mike says this is a clear warning.

He also mentions Solomon’s many building projects. Solomon uses forced labor to finish everything he plans. Fr. Mike says this shows how much Solomon is doing—but also hints at problems ahead.

At the end, Fr. Mike notes that Solomon had started well. But his story is heading toward a bad finish. God warned him, but Solomon won’t stay on the right path.

Solomon’s Fame and Fortune

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Kings 10. He says it’s a review of Solomon’s greatness, including the visit from the Queen of Sheba. Her visit shows how far Solomon’s fame and wisdom had spread.

Fr. Mike highlights how the chapter repeats what we saw in 2 Chronicles. The details are nearly the same, including Solomon’s riches, his wisdom, and how other rulers admired him. It reminds us of just how respected Solomon was.

He notes that this review shows the peak of Solomon’s life. Many kings visited him, and his wealth and power were unmatched. But Fr. Mike also reminds us that Solomon’s story is heading toward a fall.

This part of 1 Kings is a reminder of how great Solomon had become. But it also prepares us for what’s coming next. Fr. Mike sees this chapter as part of the bigger picture of Solomon’s rise and coming decline.

Solomon’s Fall Begins

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Kings 11. He explains how Solomon turns away from God. Solomon loves many foreign women and builds altars to false gods. This leads to his downfall.

Fr. Mike says Solomon didn’t fall because he lost wisdom. He fell because he gave his heart to others instead of God. His many wives pulled him away from the truth.

God warned Solomon more than once. Still, Solomon chose to follow other gods. Fr. Mike says it’s a tragic end for a king who started out so well.

Fr. Mike also talks about how our choices affect others. He says bad choices don’t stop with us. Like Solomon, we can pass problems to the next generation.

Bad Advice and a Broken Kingdom

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Kings 12. He explains how Rehoboam becomes king after Solomon. The people ask him to lighten the harsh rule of his father. At first, Rehoboam asks for advice.

Fr. Mike points out that the older advisors tell Rehoboam to be kind. But the young men tell him to be tougher. Rehoboam listens to the young men and speaks harshly to the people. This causes a split in the kingdom.

Fr. Mike says this didn’t have to happen. God had warned it would, but Rehoboam still had a choice. He ignored wise advice and chose pride. That led to the kingdom breaking apart.

Fr. Mike also talks about Jeroboam. Jeroboam sets up fake worship in the north with golden calves. Fr. Mike says this was a huge mistake. It pulled the people away from God right at the start.

A Strange Story and a Clear Warning

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Kings 13. He explains how a man of God comes from Judah to warn King Jeroboam. The man gives a sign, and the king’s hand withers and is later healed. Fr. Mike says this shows God’s power and mercy.

The man of God was told not to eat or drink in that place. But an old prophet lies and tells him God said it’s okay to eat with him. The man believes the lie, eats the meal, and is later killed by a lion. Fr. Mike says this happened because the man disobeyed what God told him.

Fr. Mike points out the strange part of the story—the lion kills him but does not eat him or touch the donkey. This shows it was God’s judgment, not a random attack. The old prophet feels guilty and asks to be buried with the man he tricked.

Fr. Mike says the message is simple. When God tells you what to do, follow it. Even if someone you trust says something different, stay faithful. He says this story teaches us to stick with what we know God has said.

Kings, Warnings, and a Sick Child

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Kings 14. He explains that Jeroboam’s son Abijah is sick. Jeroboam sends his wife in disguise to see the prophet Ahijah. She wants to know if the boy will live.

Fr. Mike says Jeroboam turns to a true prophet instead of the false worship he created. In hard times, people often look for real answers, not just comfort. But Jeroboam still doesn’t return to the Lord.

Ahijah gives a harsh message. God says Jeroboam led Israel into deep sin. Because of this, Jeroboam’s family will be wiped out. His son will die when the queen returns home.

Fr. Mike also talks about Rehoboam in 1 Kings 14. Rehoboam also leads the people into great sin. Fr. Mike says both kings failed to follow God. The kingdom continues to suffer because of their choices.

Good Kings, Bad Kings, and Big Mistakes

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Kings chapters 15 and 16. He explains that Asa is a good king who starts strong but doesn’t finish well. Asa trusts God for many years but later relies on a foreign king for help. Fr. Mike says this choice leads to trouble.

Fr. Mike tells how God sends a seer named Hanani to warn Asa. Asa doesn’t listen and gets angry. He puts the seer in prison instead of turning back to God. Fr. Mike says this shows how pride can get in the way of repentance.

Fr. Mike also talks about the kings in the north. He says they are all unfaithful. King Ahab is introduced, and Fr. Mike says Ahab will be one of the worst kings. He warns that none of the northern kings will follow God.

Fr. Mike encourages listeners to keep track of the names and which kingdom they belong to. See this list. He says that helps make sense of the story. He reminds us that starting strong in faith is good, but finishing well is even better.

Elijah and the Fire from Heaven

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Kings chapters 17 and 18. He introduces Elijah as a prophet who listens to God and obeys. Elijah trusts God when he’s fed by ravens and later helps a widow in Zarephath during the drought. Fr. Mike says Elijah’s faith stands out because he acts on God’s word.

Fr. Mike talks about how Elijah helps the widow grow in trust. Even when her son dies, Elijah stays faithful and prays for the boy. God hears him, and the boy lives again. Fr. Mike says Elijah is calling people around him to deeper faith.

Fr. Mike also shares the story of the showdown on Mount Carmel. Elijah challenges the prophets of Baal. He asks the people to stop going back and forth and choose who they will follow—God or Baal.

When God sends fire from heaven, the people fall down and worship Him. Fr. Mike says this shows God’s faithfulness even when His people are unsure. He reminds us that God keeps choosing us, even when we don’t always choose Him.

Elijah’s Low Point and God’s Quiet Voice

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Kings 19 and 20. He explains how Elijah becomes afraid after his big win against the prophets of Baal. Jezebel threatens his life, and Elijah runs away, feeling hopeless and ready to die.

Fr. Mike says God doesn’t leave Elijah in his sadness. God gives him food and rest. He sends Elijah on a journey to Mount Horeb, where Elijah meets God in a quiet whisper—not in wind, fire, or earthquake.

Fr. Mike also connects 1 Kings 19 to the idea of viaticum. When Elijah is weak and wants to give up, God gives him bread for the journey. Fr. Mike explains that viaticum means “food for the way” and is the final Eucharist for those near death. He says it shows that even when we feel finished, God gives us strength to keep going.

Fr. Mike also talks about how Elijah calls Elisha to follow him. Elisha leaves everything behind to become Elijah’s helper. Fr. Mike says Elisha is fully committed, with no turning back.

In 1 Kings 20, Fr. Mike explains that Ahab wins a battle but disobeys God by showing mercy to the enemy king. A prophet warns Ahab that this was a mistake. Fr. Mike reminds us that even small choices can lead to bigger problems.

The Rotten Fruit of Power

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Kings 21 and the story of Naboth’s vineyard. He explains that Naboth refuses to sell his land to King Ahab because the land was a family inheritance. In ancient Israel, land was not just property—it was part of God’s promise. Naboth’s choice shows his faithfulness.

Fr. Mike points out how Ahab acts like a spoiled child when he doesn’t get what he wants. Jezebel, his wife, then plots to have Naboth falsely accused and killed. Fr. Mike says Jezebel’s actions are evil, but he also warns us about the elders and nobles who went along with her plan. They stayed silent when they should have stood up for what was right.

God sends Elijah to confront Ahab and tell him the punishment that is coming. Ahab is shaken and shows a small sign of repentance. Because of this, God delays the punishment until after Ahab’s death. Fr. Mike says this moment shows how even small acts of humility matter.

The Fall of Ahab and the Voice of Truth

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Kings 22. He explains how King Ahab of Israel and King Jehoshaphat of Judah plan to fight against Syria. Jehoshaphat wants to ask the Lord for guidance. Ahab gathers prophets who all agree, but Jehoshaphat still asks for a true prophet of the Lord.

Fr. Mike focuses on the prophet Micaiah. Micaiah at first tells Ahab what he wants to hear, then speaks the truth: Ahab will die in battle. Ahab doesn’t like this but goes to battle anyway. Just as Micaiah warned, Ahab is killed.

Fr. Mike points out how Ahab tries to avoid God’s word but cannot escape the truth. Even when we don’t want to hear it, God’s word is true. Ahab’s death fulfills the earlier prophecy that dogs would lick up his blood.

Fr. Mike also briefly notes that Jehoshaphat is a good king, like his father Asa. But Ahab’s son Ahaziah becomes king next and continues to do evil. The book of 1 Kings ends with this change in leadership and a reminder that God’s word always comes true.

Navigating The Scriptures: The Catholic Approach to Reading the Bible

The Bible

The Book of 1 Kings is just one part of the bigger story in the Bible. It fits into the history of God’s people and shows how God stayed with them through both good times and bad. When we read the Bible, we learn more about who God is and how He wants us to live.

If you want to learn more about the Bible as a whole, visit our page called Understanding the Bible. It’s a good place to start if you’re new to reading Scripture or just want to go deeper.

Questions and Answers about 1 Kings

Who wrote 1 Kings?

We don’t know the name of the writer. It was likely written by someone who knew the history of Israel and cared about God’s law. The writer used old stories and records to help tell what happened.

Why did the kingdom split in 1 Kings?

After Solomon died, his son Rehoboam became king. He made poor choices and treated the people harshly. This led to a split. Ten tribes formed the northern kingdom called Israel. Two tribes stayed with Rehoboam in the south, called Judah.

Why is Elijah important?

Elijah was a prophet. He spoke for God when most people were turning away. He stood up to King Ahab and Queen Jezebel. He reminded the people that the Lord is the one true God.

What can Catholics learn from 1 Kings?

We learn to trust God, to pray, and to turn back when we sin. The book shows that God keeps reaching out to help us, even when we fail.

Kings, Prophets, and Choices

The Book of 1 Kings starts with King David near death. His son Solomon becomes king. Solomon rules wisely at first. He builds the temple and leads the people. But later, he turns away from God and follows false gods. This weakens the kingdom.

After Solomon dies, the kingdom splits. The north becomes Israel. The south is Judah. Many kings rule, but most do not follow God. They worship idols and lead the people into sin. Some try to do what is right, but they are few.

God sends prophets to call the people back. The most famous is Elijah. He speaks with courage and shows that the Lord is the true God. He faces kings who do not listen, but he stays faithful.

1 Kings teaches that leaders should follow God. It also shows that God is patient. He keeps reaching out, even when people turn away.

Your Turn

1 Kings is full of action, choices, and important lessons. It shows how things can fall apart when people forget God. But it also shows that God never forgets His people. If you haven’t read it before, now is a good time to start. The stories are clear and easy to follow.

After you read, come back and leave a comment. Share what stood out to you. Was it Solomon’s wisdom? Elijah’s courage? Or something else? We’d love to hear how this book speaks to you today.

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