Solomon: Knowledge Not Applied

INTRODUCTION.

A.        I have heard it said that some mechanics who fix other people’s cars, are often negligent with his own cars.

B.        I have heard it said that some carpenters who repair other people’s home, are often slow to fix a broken piece of molding in his own house.

C.        I have heard it said that some computer technicians whose job is to maintain and repair the office computers often neglects simple maintenance on his own computer.

D.        Solomon was much like the mechanic, the carpenter, and the computer technician. Solomon ruled a nation and possessed great knowledge. However, Solomon could not rule his own life and passions.

E.        Solomon was the third king of Israel. He was the son of David. He reigned for 40 years.

I.         SOLOMON POSSESSED GREAT KNOWLEDGE.

            A.        Solomon was given wisdom and knowledge by the Lord. (II Chronicles 1:7-12; I Kings 4:29-34)

            B.        Solomon impressed leaders of other nations with his knowledge. (I Kings 10:1-10)

            C.        Solomon used his knowledge and wisdom in ruling the people. (Ex. I Kings 3:16-28 - Show baby decision. )

            D.        Solomon had knowledge in the following three areas.

                        1.         Solomon knew the need for knowledge. (Proverbs 2:1-13; 8:8-12)

                        2.         Solomon knew the importance of proper influence. (Proverbs 1:8-19; 22:24,25)

                        3.         Solomon knew the need of worshiping only God. (II Chronicles 7:17-20)

II.       PROBLEMS IN SOLOMON’S LIFE.

            A.        During the course of Solomon’s life, Solomon married 700 wives and took 300 concubines. The reason for Solomon’s many wives has been attributed to political alliances with other nations. (I Kings 11:1-3)

            B.        Solomon, who possessed great knowledge should have known the Lord’s wishes regarding the man and his wife.

            C.        Solomon should have listened to his own teachings on influences. Solomon was influenced by his many wives. As a result, Solomon’s family lost most of the kingdom. (I Kings 11:1-13)

            D.        Solomon did not listen to the word of the Lord regarding worshiping Him only. (I Kings 11:7-10)

III.      LESSONS TO LEARN FROM SOLOMON’S LIFE.

            A.        Knowledge of God’s Word does not guarantee you will always make the right decisions.

                        1.         Solomon had plenty of knowledge, but apparently lacked in application.

                        2.         We may have a lot of Bible knowledge, but if we do not apply that knowledge, then the Bible knowledge serves no purpose. Bible knowledge is great, but without application, it then becomes waste.

            B.        We should pay careful attention to avoid bad influences within our life.

                        1.         Paul taught in I Corinthians 15:33 that evil companions corrupt good morals.

                        2.         Paul always warned about leaven. (I Corinthians 5:6-7)

                        3.         Solomon’s bad examples were his wives. What do you consider as bad examples in your life?

                                    a.         Certain friends?

                                    b.         Certain family members?

                                    c.         Certain television shows?

                                    d.         Certain movies?

CONCLUSION.

A.        While Solomon is to be admired for his great knowledge, we should also learn from his failures to apply that knowledge.

B.        We should study to increase our knowledge and then work to apply that knowledge. Then we should work to surround ourselves with good examples and avoid bad examples.

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Solomon: Knowledge Not Applied? -- August 18, 2002 -- File # 910

by John M. Duvall -- Lawton ,OK