1 Kings 11:14-25

Premonitions of Wrath.

Though the full weight of the judgment of God upon the sin of Solomon was not to come upon him in his lifetime, yet did he not, in this world, go altogether without punishment. The foreknowledge of the evils to come upon his family and people was in itself a heavy affliction. But in addition to this, the evening of his days was doomed to be disturbed. To this end—

I. GOD STIRRED UP ADVERSARIES AGAINST HIM .

1 . In themselves these were inconsiderable .

2 . But they have been quietly acquiring influence .

3 . With God behind them they are now formidable .

II. HE STIRRED UP THOSE ADVERSARIES BY MEANS .

1 . They were reminded of the sufferings of their people .

2 . They were persuaded that the opportunity was ripe for revenge .

Who can afford to have God for his enemy? Solomon could not afford it. Can we? Who would not make peace with such an antagonist? He proposes His own terms. Why do we not repent and believe the gospel?—M.