Saul Weinreb - Let the Prophets Speak

Kings 1:17a - Elijah Versus Ahab

We learn of one of the most important prophets, Elijah, and his differences with the evil King Ahab.  Living as God commands versus the arrogance of trying to manipulate the gods.

Kings 1:16 - You Thought it Can’t Get Worse ...

The Northern Kingdom descends into the depths of idolatry and political chaos.

Kings 1:15b - Civil War, Bad Alliances, and a Coup in the North

We read of civil war between the North and South, some questionable alliances made by King Asa, and how Ba'asha deposed Nadav in a military coup.

Kings 1:15a - King Asa Brings the People Back to God

We read of the descendants of Rehoboam, Aviyam and Asa, one who continued in his father's evil path, and the other who restored the worship of God among the people.

Kings 1:14b - Rehoboam’s Reign Ends in Shame

The people of Judah stray from God just as their Northern brethren did, and Rehoboam suffers an embarrassing military defeat.

Kings 1:14a - The Tragic End of Jereboam

Jereboam held so much promise, but he failed spectacularly.  He attempts to cheat God with a silly disguise, but the prophet doesn't fall for this.  

Kings 1:13b - The Elder Prophet Meets the Junior

An old prophet in Beit El tricks the junior prophet into partaking of a meal with him, which leads to a tragic event. Ultimately though, the prophecy of the elder prophet learns that the prophecy regarding Jereboam's temples was true. 

Kings 1:13a - A Prophet Spoils the Party

God sends a prophet to Jereboam's new temple who predicts the ultimate destruction of this new temple.  Jereboam refuses to heed the message of the prophet.

Kings 1:12b - The Secession of the Northern Tribes

Rehoboam flees for his own safety as his tax collector is stoned, and the prophet Shemayah averts an all out civil war. Jereboam sets up his new kingdom on a very dangerous path.

Kings 1:12a - Rehoboam Takes Bad Counsel

Rehoboam is crowned King in place of his father, and he is presented with his first challenge.  He chooses the wrong advisors, and embarks on a dangerous path.