What do you think?
Rate this book
King Solomon: The Temptations of Money, Sex, and Power
King Solomon had all the fame and fortune that any man could want. He was the world’s wisest and wealthiest king. And yet, tragically, he threw it all away for the love of money, the pleasures of sex, and the powers of an earthly kingdom. In studying the life of Solomon, we see both the true greatness and the tragic failure of our own humanity―from godly devotion to self-serving excess. Even in the midst of our best intentions, we are all prone to succumb to the same temptations of money, sex, and power. And if Solomon’s incredible wisdom could not prevent him from such tragic mistakes, then how are we to triumph over the same temptations? Philip Graham Ryken shows us how, by the grace of God, to prevent those downfalls and to seek God’s glory amid earthly temptations through this rich, Christ-centered study of the life of Solomon.
256 pages, Paperback
First published July 7, 2011
23 people are currently reading
190 people want to read
About the author
Philip Graham Ryken
111 books75 followersPhilip Graham Ryken is Senior Minister of Tenth Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia, where he has preached since 1995. He is Bible Teacher for the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals, speaking nationally on the radio program Every Last Word. Dr. Ryken was educated at Wheaton College (IL), Westminster Theological Seminary (PA) and the University of Oxford (UK), from which he received his doctorate in historical theology. He lives with his wife (Lisa) and children (Joshua, Kirsten, Jack, Kathryn, and Karoline) in Center City, Philadelphia. When he is not preaching or spending time with his family, he likes to read books, play sports, and ponder the relationship between Christian faith and American culture. He has written or edited more than twenty books, including Bible commentaries on Exodus, Jeremiah, Lamentations, and Galatians.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
January 14, 2023
Simple and good introduction to King Salomon's life written by a preacher more than a teacher. Each aspect of the King's life is brought back to applications for the new testament believer. Included are topics as the defence of beauty, the kingship of Christ, the dangers of material possessions and many more.
BEHOLD SOMETHING GREATER THAN SOLOMON IS HERE!
BEHOLD SOMETHING GREATER THAN SOLOMON IS HERE!
October 16, 2018
This overall was solid, gospel-centered exposition and application from Solomon’s life from 1 Kings 1-11. There wasn’t anything too creative, nor profound, nor unique about the book. But it was solid through and through.
You could tell that these very clearly were sermons delivered. And they were sermons typical in structure and style—with points, illustrations, and then almost always ending with how it applies to Jesus. Some chapters (sermons) were better than others, but for the most part, they were insightful.
They were not, however, very awe-inspiring sermons (chapters) in themselves. From what I can tell from this book, this is not Ryken’s strong suit. He preaches more like typical Presbyterian exposition, illustration, application style—which I do not particularly like because it does not urge one to see glory as much. It’s more about exposition, with semi-attached illustrations and applications. That being said, what his strength is is solid exposition, with Christ-centered application. Again, nothing too special. But good and gospel-centered.
Here’s a sum of what I liked and didn’t like.
What I liked was the solid exposition of Solomon’s life. I decided to quickly read the book because I just read Kings in my Bible reading and was intrigued by Solomon. Ryken helped me understand many details of his life much more.
What I didn’t like was how it focused so little on his downfall. Knowing that this was a sermon series on 1 Kings 1-11, and Solomon’s downfall only takes place in 1 Kings 11, it makes sense that this takes up little of the book. Yet, the subtitle of the book is The Temptations of Money, Sex, and Power. And although he introduces these a little in the first chapter, it isn’t until the last two chapters (starting around page 170) that he really gets into this! Most of the book was about Solomon’s early life, wisdom, and temple building. Interesting? Sure. Fitting to the subtitle? Definitely not.
That being said, my favorite chapter by far was number 12, about the fall of Solomon. Ryken explained and applied it well. I just wish there was more meditation on this (as the subtitle suggested there would be).
Would I recommend it? If you wanted to meditate more on Solomon’s life, then sure. But there wasn’t anything wow-worthy here. Just interesting and instructive details about Solomon’s life with solid exposition and some good application. I would give it 3 stars, but I feel bad doing so because overall it is so faithful to the text and simply is an explanation of the Word. Thus, deserving the fourth star.
You could tell that these very clearly were sermons delivered. And they were sermons typical in structure and style—with points, illustrations, and then almost always ending with how it applies to Jesus. Some chapters (sermons) were better than others, but for the most part, they were insightful.
They were not, however, very awe-inspiring sermons (chapters) in themselves. From what I can tell from this book, this is not Ryken’s strong suit. He preaches more like typical Presbyterian exposition, illustration, application style—which I do not particularly like because it does not urge one to see glory as much. It’s more about exposition, with semi-attached illustrations and applications. That being said, what his strength is is solid exposition, with Christ-centered application. Again, nothing too special. But good and gospel-centered.
Here’s a sum of what I liked and didn’t like.
What I liked was the solid exposition of Solomon’s life. I decided to quickly read the book because I just read Kings in my Bible reading and was intrigued by Solomon. Ryken helped me understand many details of his life much more.
What I didn’t like was how it focused so little on his downfall. Knowing that this was a sermon series on 1 Kings 1-11, and Solomon’s downfall only takes place in 1 Kings 11, it makes sense that this takes up little of the book. Yet, the subtitle of the book is The Temptations of Money, Sex, and Power. And although he introduces these a little in the first chapter, it isn’t until the last two chapters (starting around page 170) that he really gets into this! Most of the book was about Solomon’s early life, wisdom, and temple building. Interesting? Sure. Fitting to the subtitle? Definitely not.
That being said, my favorite chapter by far was number 12, about the fall of Solomon. Ryken explained and applied it well. I just wish there was more meditation on this (as the subtitle suggested there would be).
Would I recommend it? If you wanted to meditate more on Solomon’s life, then sure. But there wasn’t anything wow-worthy here. Just interesting and instructive details about Solomon’s life with solid exposition and some good application. I would give it 3 stars, but I feel bad doing so because overall it is so faithful to the text and simply is an explanation of the Word. Thus, deserving the fourth star.
December 14, 2020
This was a devotional approach to the life of Solomon and is good for application to daily situations. I wish that there had been more depth about Solomon himself, but it probably was not the intention of the author.
July 28, 2014
As an explicitly conservative (and evangelical) exposition (of sorts) of the life of King Solomon, Ryken (a Presbyterian Pastor) offers a bit of a mix of predictable and insightful commentary. His approach lends itself to his Christian pastoral tendencies (this is intended as a group study guide after all), which fuses an Old Testament story as an echo of the figure and person of Jesus with specific modern application of the major themes of money, sex and power. Depending on what you (as a reader) might be looking for, "King Solomon" will remain more or less satisfactory.
While thematically Ryken might come across as predictable in its modern application, in truth he is appropriated in reaching back to the story of Solomon as a thematic voice. While the story itself is part of a larger tradition and movement (certainly as part of the Israelite prophetic tradition), it also fits within a more confined narrative that has a particular, guided purpose. This is the nature of most Biblical narratives, and thus appropriated study needs to take in to account the theme(s) of the story in order to fully understand questions such as why and how it came to be a part of the Old Testament canon. In this sense, the story of King Solomon is one of political intrigue, personal passion and high drama. It is an exciting story to tell from all respects. Ryken makes the comparison to later "tragedies". The sheer velocity with which the reign of King Solomon reaches its highs and lows allows the story (of the rise and fall) to move with quite a bit of force.
The story of King Solomon (in my experience) has often left readers with many questions of incredulity. One of the main inquiries often revolves around how Solomon ends up where he does at the end of the story. How is it that this person, whom we are desired to see as the wisest person to ever live, and who in all respects appears to be the very image of a "good" and "successful" king, can end up falling so long and so hard in to such a disrespecting place. Indeed, in the Biblical narrative itself we are led to experience the fall's sudden nature in all of its glory. It is meant to catch the reader off guard, to cause us to feel like we did not see it coming. As a narrative work, there is a sense in which the reader is intended to be swept up in the grandeur that Solomon's reign had come to symbolize. Even more so, we are asked to enter a story of subtleties, a story of right and wrong that resists (to any great extent) nice categories of black and white answers. Ryken shapes his book to emphasize some these dramatic vices. He is content to speak of the story as an unfolding narrative rather than reading the "ending" prematurely in to the beginning. For those who might decry his particular conservative, evangelical framework, this is an area that I believe Ryken deserves acknowledgement. The nature of the story (as it would have been told in written or oral context) is as a high piece of drama, and any theological or exegetical work should recognize that this is the best way to approach it as a part of the larger narrative of Israelite history.
The story of Solomon emerges from the pages of David's own (sort of) tragic ending. King David's last days provide the framework through which we are to understand King Solomon, and David's last days are equally dramatic. Solomon's eventual rise to the throne follows the sort of political manipulation you would expect from Washington or Ottawa (or any modern political entity for that matter). Solomon, the son of David and Bathsheba, was not the original heir to the throne, but through the advantage of David's vulnerability (as an old man, a fact that is solidified in the test of sending in a young, fertile woman to seduce him... could they not simply look at him to inquire of his age and status?), Bathsheba orients the throne towards Solomon (and against Adonijah, the righful heir). There is a striking emphasis in this introduction to the story of Solomon that sets the stage for a pondering of what exactly constitutes right and wrong. If we read the story appropriately with the introduction, the reader should already find themself somewhat displaced by Solomon's actions. Adonijah is eventually executed and decried as one who is against the throne and God's will, but we are left to struggle with seeing this through the same eyes. Adonijah, after all, is left in a rock and a hard place, and his death is the result of political manipulation more than anything (even as the story paints him as the bad guy).
As a reader we are then expected to be swept in to the story of Solomon as one who is in God's graces and the recipient of God's good gifts. The story itself moves us swiftly away from the complicated introduction and in to the life of Solomon as the third king of a unified nation, and one who is about to become the wisest of all of these kings. The invite for Solomon to ask for anything, and the choice to request unfounded wisdom, is meant to endear us to this figure as one who chooses the right thing (and makes the choice between temporal material, earthly treasure and lasting, eternal treasure that we might not be able to make ourselves). Solomon, we are asked to consider, is the picture of a godly man. His ensuing rule accentuates the rewards of his request for wisdom, as God not only grants his request because also gives him the material blessing as well (including 700 wives and 300 concubines?). All is good in the kingdom and his rule. Or is it?
Ryken understands that as a reader, the story of the temple (of which Solomon becomes the initial architect), and the movement of the ark of the covenant in to the holy temple, and eventually the grand story of the Queen of Sheba, is all supposed to enchant us with a form of romantic vigor that might blind us to what is really happening. There are some intentional grammatical formations that, for the inquiring and watchful eye, would indicate that there is something not completely right with how this story is moving forward underneath the surface. This would include a shift from the emphasis of the repeated phrase "if you" (according to the blessing) to "because you have" (which accords to the eventual judgment). The story would perhaps be more familiar to a Jewish audience, as much of the subtleties which come to define the reasons for Solomon's fall are immediately entrenched in the Levitical law. However, what is perhaps most prominent is the issue of Solomon's association with foreign wives and his stoking of a relationship with Egypt, both of which play primary roles in the dismantling of Solomon's kingdom (and the dividing of Israel/Judah) and the eventual exile (this would be considered the infiltration of foreign idol worship and the political allignment with Egypt as a foreign power that would protect them from God's own purpose (or lack of purpose from their viewpoint). Once the reader arrives at the end of the story, it becomes that much easier to recognize the warning signs that existed from the get go. Ryken utilizes this practice of hindsight in its proper place (as a part of his later chapters).
The story quickly moves from the grandeur of the temple as a symbol of Solomon's riches, and the far reaching implications of his growing and reputable wisdom (in the story of the Queen of Sheba), towards the inevitability of the futility and temporal nature of these earthly symbols. It represents a fine line between blessing and curse. Perhaps the most striking part of the story comes with the declaration that Solomon would be destined to go to the grave with these blessings as the symbol of his earthly reward and accomplishment along with the representation of his sin and departure from godliness. It begs the reader to wonder what it must have been like to receive the word that God would not take his kingdom away from his hands, but rather from the hands of his future, that of his son as the heir (Rehoboam). In the story itself this promise serves three main purposes. It provides us the means of digging in deeper in to the person of Solomon himself by allowing us to ask some of these inner, soul searching questions of ourself as well. What would it be like to have to carry forward with our riches knowing the consequence that would live on after we are gone? How would this impact Solomon's life from here forward? Would he reject God completely? Would he be given a chance at redemption? We are left without an answer to these questions, which speaks to the power of the narrative itself. Secondly, it allows the stage to be set for this story (as the story of Israel) to be anchored in its prophetic history. There are elements of this story that are pushing us towards the great north/south divide between Israel and Judah, and in a way this is the greater theme at play, the theme of Israelites prophetic legacy (as a reflection of God's providential care of His people). In his book, Ryken is convinced that the story of Solomon is both a symbol of the Israelite nation in exile in Egypt and a pre-curser to the figure of Christ Himself. He goes so far as to refer so Solomon as a sort of Christ figure who represents the relationship between God and His people. In this sense, the ending of the story is intended to anchor us with the ongoing prophetic legacy from which continue to move (which we find in the declaration that God would salvage a remnant, which would be Judah, to symbolize His faithfulness to His promise, despite the unfaithfulness of Solomon). Thirdly, the ending is intended to offer us a premise of the end of the age of the kings, the divided kingdom and the eventual exile as a part of God's judgment of evil. It lets the reader know that this story is about much more than just Solomon. It is the story of a displaced nation who has long sought after the world at the expense of God Himself. They have left behind their need for God in the stifling slavery that had entrapped them in Egypt, and in their demand for a king (rather than prophetic rule) have slowly begun to model their nation and their people after the kingdoms of the world.
Once again, Ryken stays within the confines of the Biblical source material. Scholarly treatment recognizes a degree of extra-biblical traditions that shed light on the greater Solomonic tradition. Some emphasize his greatness, others demonize his kingship. Some betray him as an enemy of their own peoples from within their own traditions, while other traditions claim him as their own. What Ryken does is place Solomon firmly within a recognizable Judeo/Christian tradition, which is not altogether inappropriate. Most of what we know of Solomon trends from this place or points back to it in some place or form. And certainly, within the narrative itself Ryken captures the intent and purpose of the canonized material. Thus, depending on what you hope to emerge with, this book will either satisfy or leave you longing. The study material admittedly is a bit underwhelming even as a conservative/evangelical source. And there is some sense in which the overly pastoral approach to melding modern application with Christian interpretation and Jewish tradition is a bit frustrating. But for the most part, especially if you have any degree of connection with the Christian tradition, he provides a source that should at least open you up to the story of Solomon in a fresh (or new) way.
While thematically Ryken might come across as predictable in its modern application, in truth he is appropriated in reaching back to the story of Solomon as a thematic voice. While the story itself is part of a larger tradition and movement (certainly as part of the Israelite prophetic tradition), it also fits within a more confined narrative that has a particular, guided purpose. This is the nature of most Biblical narratives, and thus appropriated study needs to take in to account the theme(s) of the story in order to fully understand questions such as why and how it came to be a part of the Old Testament canon. In this sense, the story of King Solomon is one of political intrigue, personal passion and high drama. It is an exciting story to tell from all respects. Ryken makes the comparison to later "tragedies". The sheer velocity with which the reign of King Solomon reaches its highs and lows allows the story (of the rise and fall) to move with quite a bit of force.
The story of King Solomon (in my experience) has often left readers with many questions of incredulity. One of the main inquiries often revolves around how Solomon ends up where he does at the end of the story. How is it that this person, whom we are desired to see as the wisest person to ever live, and who in all respects appears to be the very image of a "good" and "successful" king, can end up falling so long and so hard in to such a disrespecting place. Indeed, in the Biblical narrative itself we are led to experience the fall's sudden nature in all of its glory. It is meant to catch the reader off guard, to cause us to feel like we did not see it coming. As a narrative work, there is a sense in which the reader is intended to be swept up in the grandeur that Solomon's reign had come to symbolize. Even more so, we are asked to enter a story of subtleties, a story of right and wrong that resists (to any great extent) nice categories of black and white answers. Ryken shapes his book to emphasize some these dramatic vices. He is content to speak of the story as an unfolding narrative rather than reading the "ending" prematurely in to the beginning. For those who might decry his particular conservative, evangelical framework, this is an area that I believe Ryken deserves acknowledgement. The nature of the story (as it would have been told in written or oral context) is as a high piece of drama, and any theological or exegetical work should recognize that this is the best way to approach it as a part of the larger narrative of Israelite history.
The story of Solomon emerges from the pages of David's own (sort of) tragic ending. King David's last days provide the framework through which we are to understand King Solomon, and David's last days are equally dramatic. Solomon's eventual rise to the throne follows the sort of political manipulation you would expect from Washington or Ottawa (or any modern political entity for that matter). Solomon, the son of David and Bathsheba, was not the original heir to the throne, but through the advantage of David's vulnerability (as an old man, a fact that is solidified in the test of sending in a young, fertile woman to seduce him... could they not simply look at him to inquire of his age and status?), Bathsheba orients the throne towards Solomon (and against Adonijah, the righful heir). There is a striking emphasis in this introduction to the story of Solomon that sets the stage for a pondering of what exactly constitutes right and wrong. If we read the story appropriately with the introduction, the reader should already find themself somewhat displaced by Solomon's actions. Adonijah is eventually executed and decried as one who is against the throne and God's will, but we are left to struggle with seeing this through the same eyes. Adonijah, after all, is left in a rock and a hard place, and his death is the result of political manipulation more than anything (even as the story paints him as the bad guy).
As a reader we are then expected to be swept in to the story of Solomon as one who is in God's graces and the recipient of God's good gifts. The story itself moves us swiftly away from the complicated introduction and in to the life of Solomon as the third king of a unified nation, and one who is about to become the wisest of all of these kings. The invite for Solomon to ask for anything, and the choice to request unfounded wisdom, is meant to endear us to this figure as one who chooses the right thing (and makes the choice between temporal material, earthly treasure and lasting, eternal treasure that we might not be able to make ourselves). Solomon, we are asked to consider, is the picture of a godly man. His ensuing rule accentuates the rewards of his request for wisdom, as God not only grants his request because also gives him the material blessing as well (including 700 wives and 300 concubines?). All is good in the kingdom and his rule. Or is it?
Ryken understands that as a reader, the story of the temple (of which Solomon becomes the initial architect), and the movement of the ark of the covenant in to the holy temple, and eventually the grand story of the Queen of Sheba, is all supposed to enchant us with a form of romantic vigor that might blind us to what is really happening. There are some intentional grammatical formations that, for the inquiring and watchful eye, would indicate that there is something not completely right with how this story is moving forward underneath the surface. This would include a shift from the emphasis of the repeated phrase "if you" (according to the blessing) to "because you have" (which accords to the eventual judgment). The story would perhaps be more familiar to a Jewish audience, as much of the subtleties which come to define the reasons for Solomon's fall are immediately entrenched in the Levitical law. However, what is perhaps most prominent is the issue of Solomon's association with foreign wives and his stoking of a relationship with Egypt, both of which play primary roles in the dismantling of Solomon's kingdom (and the dividing of Israel/Judah) and the eventual exile (this would be considered the infiltration of foreign idol worship and the political allignment with Egypt as a foreign power that would protect them from God's own purpose (or lack of purpose from their viewpoint). Once the reader arrives at the end of the story, it becomes that much easier to recognize the warning signs that existed from the get go. Ryken utilizes this practice of hindsight in its proper place (as a part of his later chapters).
The story quickly moves from the grandeur of the temple as a symbol of Solomon's riches, and the far reaching implications of his growing and reputable wisdom (in the story of the Queen of Sheba), towards the inevitability of the futility and temporal nature of these earthly symbols. It represents a fine line between blessing and curse. Perhaps the most striking part of the story comes with the declaration that Solomon would be destined to go to the grave with these blessings as the symbol of his earthly reward and accomplishment along with the representation of his sin and departure from godliness. It begs the reader to wonder what it must have been like to receive the word that God would not take his kingdom away from his hands, but rather from the hands of his future, that of his son as the heir (Rehoboam). In the story itself this promise serves three main purposes. It provides us the means of digging in deeper in to the person of Solomon himself by allowing us to ask some of these inner, soul searching questions of ourself as well. What would it be like to have to carry forward with our riches knowing the consequence that would live on after we are gone? How would this impact Solomon's life from here forward? Would he reject God completely? Would he be given a chance at redemption? We are left without an answer to these questions, which speaks to the power of the narrative itself. Secondly, it allows the stage to be set for this story (as the story of Israel) to be anchored in its prophetic history. There are elements of this story that are pushing us towards the great north/south divide between Israel and Judah, and in a way this is the greater theme at play, the theme of Israelites prophetic legacy (as a reflection of God's providential care of His people). In his book, Ryken is convinced that the story of Solomon is both a symbol of the Israelite nation in exile in Egypt and a pre-curser to the figure of Christ Himself. He goes so far as to refer so Solomon as a sort of Christ figure who represents the relationship between God and His people. In this sense, the ending of the story is intended to anchor us with the ongoing prophetic legacy from which continue to move (which we find in the declaration that God would salvage a remnant, which would be Judah, to symbolize His faithfulness to His promise, despite the unfaithfulness of Solomon). Thirdly, the ending is intended to offer us a premise of the end of the age of the kings, the divided kingdom and the eventual exile as a part of God's judgment of evil. It lets the reader know that this story is about much more than just Solomon. It is the story of a displaced nation who has long sought after the world at the expense of God Himself. They have left behind their need for God in the stifling slavery that had entrapped them in Egypt, and in their demand for a king (rather than prophetic rule) have slowly begun to model their nation and their people after the kingdoms of the world.
Once again, Ryken stays within the confines of the Biblical source material. Scholarly treatment recognizes a degree of extra-biblical traditions that shed light on the greater Solomonic tradition. Some emphasize his greatness, others demonize his kingship. Some betray him as an enemy of their own peoples from within their own traditions, while other traditions claim him as their own. What Ryken does is place Solomon firmly within a recognizable Judeo/Christian tradition, which is not altogether inappropriate. Most of what we know of Solomon trends from this place or points back to it in some place or form. And certainly, within the narrative itself Ryken captures the intent and purpose of the canonized material. Thus, depending on what you hope to emerge with, this book will either satisfy or leave you longing. The study material admittedly is a bit underwhelming even as a conservative/evangelical source. And there is some sense in which the overly pastoral approach to melding modern application with Christian interpretation and Jewish tradition is a bit frustrating. But for the most part, especially if you have any degree of connection with the Christian tradition, he provides a source that should at least open you up to the story of Solomon in a fresh (or new) way.
January 14, 2012
What if you were offered anything you wanted? What would you choose? Fast cars, money, a nice job, friends, a big house or a big boat. There was one man who was offered anything he wanted and he didn’t pick any of those things. In fact, in not picking those things he ended up with most of them anyways. His name is King Solomon. Solomon didn’t ask for anything that most people ask genies for. Solomon asked for wisdom. “So give your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people to discern between good and evil (I Kings 3:5a).” To many it would seem that in making such a wise request Solomon would have been successful until the day he died. Unfortunately, as I Kings records that is not the case.
King Solomon: The Temptations of Money, Sex and Power is a devotional walk through the book of 1 Kings as it pertains to the live and reign of King Solomon. Ryken presents the reader with the highs and lows of Solomon’s life as king of Israel. We see first hand Solomon’s successes and failures. Chapter by chapter we are brought face to face with how much our hearts are like Solomon’s. How much we are tempted with the same vices of money, sex and power.
Ryken contends that Solomon’s life represents that of the literary type of ‘tragedy’ (p. 171). Solomon started off on making the right decisions but ended his life as the result of making bad decisions.
Solomon’s Right Decision
Early on in 1 Kings God approaches Solomon and offers to give him anything he asks for (1 Kings 3:9-13). Solomon makes a wise choice and chooses wisdom. As a reward for his wise choice, God promises to give him “riches and honor (1 Kings 3:13-14).” Solomon would not only be the wisest man of his time but he would also be the richest and most sought after person.
Immediately following the reception of this God given wisdom we see Solomon using it to judge Israel. When Israel hears “of the judgment which the king had handed down, they feared the king, for they saw that the wisdom of God was in him to administer judgment (I Kings 3:28).” God’s divine gift of wisdom to Solomon is evident to all and God is glorified in it. We have to stop and ask ourselves, “Is God glorified in the gifts He has given me?”
Though Solomon requested wisdom to judge the people God gave him much more than that. God gave Solomon riches beyond imagination. Unfortunately, Solomon’s decision to ask for wisdom did not mean he always made the wisest choices.
The Temptation of Money
As it was with the rich young ruler that Jesus encountered in the NT so it was with Solomon. Solomon was enamored with riches and possessions. Though he was obedient and built the temple he also built a house for himself that was far beyond the expense of the temple. In the royal safe he had hundreds of gold shields and in his house he had the windows plated in gold. In fact, near the end of Solomon’s rule 1 Kings 10:14 records for us how much money Solomon took in each year in gold alone: “The weight of gold that came to Solomon in one year was 666 talents.” Later in the text we see that Solomon amassed ships in which he brought home different kinds of exotic animals to have for himself (1 Kings 10:22). It was not the mere possession of these things that was sinful but rather that Solomon allowed them to turn his heart away from trusting God to trusting them.
The Temptation of Sex
Many people believe that Solomon did not have a problem with women until the end of his rule. This is definitely not the case. In fact, Solomon began his rule with women problems. In chapter 3 we see Solomon starting off his rule by marrying the daughter of Pharaoh king of Egypt. At the end of his rule in chapter 11 we see Solomon holding nothing back when it came to his desire for women and sex. The first three verses reveal for us how sinful Solomon’s heart and actions were:
Now King Solomon loved many foreign women, along with the daughter of Pharaoh: Moabite, Ammonite, Edomite, Sidonian, and Hittite women, from the nations concerning which the LORD had said to the people of Israel, “You shall not enter into marriage with them, neither shall they with you, for surely they will turn away your heart after their gods.” Solomon clung to these in love. He had 700 wives, who were princesses, and 300 concubines. And his wives turned away his heart (1 Kings 11:1-3).
As wise as Solomon was he played the fool when it came to women. Ironically, it was his lust for women that eventually turned his heart away from God and brought God’s judgment on him.
The Temptation of Power
In conjunction with Solomon’s desire for women was his desire for power. Many of the marriages Solomon had were primarily attempts at political alliances that would have no doubt brought Solomon protection and power. Not only did Solomon have political power but he had military power. 1 Kings 10: 26 tells us that Solomon had “1,400 chariots and 12,000 horsemen, and he stationed them in the chariot cities and with the king in Jerusalem.”
The life and rule of Solomon is truly a tragedy. One could only wonder if God’s people would ever have a godly king that would follows God all of his life. Thankfully a better king was to come. In fact, the next king of Israel to come on the scene is the final promised king – King Jesus! Jesus is the true and better king of Israel!
Aren’t you glad that Jesus is a better Solomon? That God’s kingdom is not dependent upon a failing earthly human king but a dependable heavenly saving king Jesus Christ! The temporary kingdom Solomon built is a picture of the eternal kingdom God was going to build with Jesus Christ as its king. Solomon’s successes give us a glimpse into the kingdom of God and his failures show us how much better Jesus will be as our king in God’s kingdom.
King Solomon is a humbling reminder that we can all succumb to the temptations of power, sex and money. That an earthly king will always fail to meet the perfect demands of God and that Jesus is the only true king who is ruling at the right had of the Father waiting to consummate his rule over the whole world.
King Solomon: The Temptations of Money, Sex and Power is a devotional walk through the book of 1 Kings as it pertains to the live and reign of King Solomon. Ryken presents the reader with the highs and lows of Solomon’s life as king of Israel. We see first hand Solomon’s successes and failures. Chapter by chapter we are brought face to face with how much our hearts are like Solomon’s. How much we are tempted with the same vices of money, sex and power.
Ryken contends that Solomon’s life represents that of the literary type of ‘tragedy’ (p. 171). Solomon started off on making the right decisions but ended his life as the result of making bad decisions.
Solomon’s Right Decision
Early on in 1 Kings God approaches Solomon and offers to give him anything he asks for (1 Kings 3:9-13). Solomon makes a wise choice and chooses wisdom. As a reward for his wise choice, God promises to give him “riches and honor (1 Kings 3:13-14).” Solomon would not only be the wisest man of his time but he would also be the richest and most sought after person.
Immediately following the reception of this God given wisdom we see Solomon using it to judge Israel. When Israel hears “of the judgment which the king had handed down, they feared the king, for they saw that the wisdom of God was in him to administer judgment (I Kings 3:28).” God’s divine gift of wisdom to Solomon is evident to all and God is glorified in it. We have to stop and ask ourselves, “Is God glorified in the gifts He has given me?”
Though Solomon requested wisdom to judge the people God gave him much more than that. God gave Solomon riches beyond imagination. Unfortunately, Solomon’s decision to ask for wisdom did not mean he always made the wisest choices.
The Temptation of Money
As it was with the rich young ruler that Jesus encountered in the NT so it was with Solomon. Solomon was enamored with riches and possessions. Though he was obedient and built the temple he also built a house for himself that was far beyond the expense of the temple. In the royal safe he had hundreds of gold shields and in his house he had the windows plated in gold. In fact, near the end of Solomon’s rule 1 Kings 10:14 records for us how much money Solomon took in each year in gold alone: “The weight of gold that came to Solomon in one year was 666 talents.” Later in the text we see that Solomon amassed ships in which he brought home different kinds of exotic animals to have for himself (1 Kings 10:22). It was not the mere possession of these things that was sinful but rather that Solomon allowed them to turn his heart away from trusting God to trusting them.
The Temptation of Sex
Many people believe that Solomon did not have a problem with women until the end of his rule. This is definitely not the case. In fact, Solomon began his rule with women problems. In chapter 3 we see Solomon starting off his rule by marrying the daughter of Pharaoh king of Egypt. At the end of his rule in chapter 11 we see Solomon holding nothing back when it came to his desire for women and sex. The first three verses reveal for us how sinful Solomon’s heart and actions were:
Now King Solomon loved many foreign women, along with the daughter of Pharaoh: Moabite, Ammonite, Edomite, Sidonian, and Hittite women, from the nations concerning which the LORD had said to the people of Israel, “You shall not enter into marriage with them, neither shall they with you, for surely they will turn away your heart after their gods.” Solomon clung to these in love. He had 700 wives, who were princesses, and 300 concubines. And his wives turned away his heart (1 Kings 11:1-3).
As wise as Solomon was he played the fool when it came to women. Ironically, it was his lust for women that eventually turned his heart away from God and brought God’s judgment on him.
The Temptation of Power
In conjunction with Solomon’s desire for women was his desire for power. Many of the marriages Solomon had were primarily attempts at political alliances that would have no doubt brought Solomon protection and power. Not only did Solomon have political power but he had military power. 1 Kings 10: 26 tells us that Solomon had “1,400 chariots and 12,000 horsemen, and he stationed them in the chariot cities and with the king in Jerusalem.”
The life and rule of Solomon is truly a tragedy. One could only wonder if God’s people would ever have a godly king that would follows God all of his life. Thankfully a better king was to come. In fact, the next king of Israel to come on the scene is the final promised king – King Jesus! Jesus is the true and better king of Israel!
Aren’t you glad that Jesus is a better Solomon? That God’s kingdom is not dependent upon a failing earthly human king but a dependable heavenly saving king Jesus Christ! The temporary kingdom Solomon built is a picture of the eternal kingdom God was going to build with Jesus Christ as its king. Solomon’s successes give us a glimpse into the kingdom of God and his failures show us how much better Jesus will be as our king in God’s kingdom.
King Solomon is a humbling reminder that we can all succumb to the temptations of power, sex and money. That an earthly king will always fail to meet the perfect demands of God and that Jesus is the only true king who is ruling at the right had of the Father waiting to consummate his rule over the whole world.
November 22, 2021
It's more gospel then history.
Highlights my 👂 picked up on ⬇️
another tawdry liaison tiger woods
the story of King Solomon begins with King David
Kings book of Kings they talk about Solomon
there is a lingering sense of impropriety
atanigja was more handsome than King Solomon he was the air apparent
Solomon had to eliminate four enemies to come to power igeniah who wanted sex and power more than he wanted the kingdom of God joab Joe Webb's downfall was money and power shimmyigh died because of money that was his downfall
his knowledge was encyclopedic
breathtaking in his arrogance
how are you going to accumulate an enormous Fortune?
some have gold some use a golden credit card
the desire to hoard is starting to take control of your heart
part of Solomon's greatness was his godliness
God said to Solomon if you will walk in my ways I will lengthen your days
people are always surprised when Christians turn to sin but it's because they're looking at their gifts rather than their hearts
ask for what you wish
I admire his wisdom more than his wealth
don't underestimate the lure of sin
Highlights my 👂 picked up on ⬇️
another tawdry liaison tiger woods
the story of King Solomon begins with King David
Kings book of Kings they talk about Solomon
there is a lingering sense of impropriety
atanigja was more handsome than King Solomon he was the air apparent
Solomon had to eliminate four enemies to come to power igeniah who wanted sex and power more than he wanted the kingdom of God joab Joe Webb's downfall was money and power shimmyigh died because of money that was his downfall
his knowledge was encyclopedic
breathtaking in his arrogance
how are you going to accumulate an enormous Fortune?
some have gold some use a golden credit card
the desire to hoard is starting to take control of your heart
part of Solomon's greatness was his godliness
God said to Solomon if you will walk in my ways I will lengthen your days
people are always surprised when Christians turn to sin but it's because they're looking at their gifts rather than their hearts
ask for what you wish
I admire his wisdom more than his wealth
don't underestimate the lure of sin
June 22, 2019
🇧🇷 Uma boa exposição da vida do Rei Salomão, em um modelo simples (mas homileticamente bastante apropriado) de uma contextualização, seguida de interpretação, acompanhada de uma ilustração-chave por capítulo, além de uma ponte com o exemplo de Jesus e um ponto central do evangelho. Dentro de seu propósito como série de estudos para PGs e como guia de pregações, Ryken cumpre de forma eficaz e interessante.
🇬🇧 A good exposition of King Solomon's life, in a simple (but homiletically appropriate) model of contextualization, interpretation, accompanied by a key illustration by chapter, plus a bridge with the example of Jesus and a central point of the gospel. Within its purpose as a series of studies for small groups and as a preaching guide, Ryken works effectively and interestingly well.
🇬🇧 A good exposition of King Solomon's life, in a simple (but homiletically appropriate) model of contextualization, interpretation, accompanied by a key illustration by chapter, plus a bridge with the example of Jesus and a central point of the gospel. Within its purpose as a series of studies for small groups and as a preaching guide, Ryken works effectively and interestingly well.
December 13, 2023
A series of expositions of 1 Kings 1-11 by the former pastor at Tenth Pres in Philadelphia (now the President of Wheaton College). I found the chapters uneven in their homiletical help, some were great, others really dry. Still a helpful resource for those studying 1 Kings or the life of Solomon.
January 16, 2021
I listened to this on audio in the car and while walking. Lots of Biblically supported thoughts, and much to ponder on as we try to live for God.
January 23, 2021
Easy to follow and read while being insightful. Would highly recommend.
June 27, 2021
This was an interesting way to teach Biblical truths. Ryken essentially wrote a biography of King Solomon, the son of King David. There was a lot of good mixed in with equal amounts of ho-hum here.
April 6, 2022
Fair. I thought this would be better than it was, but it wasn’t awful.
June 30, 2022
Good. Full of clever links to Christ's ministry, of which Solomon's is typological. "...behold, something greater than Solomon is here" (Luke 11:31).
August 1, 2022
A 8hr audio book. After only two hours of the audio book I quit, the author opinion and ego is apparent and the story/ history is for me beyond repulsive.
September 9, 2022
Will be using this book in our local church’s men’s Bible study…and soon!
February 16, 2016
I am pretty impressed by Phil Ryken and his work in this book. He takes the various episodes from the life of Solomon and arranges them in a Christocentric, sermonic way, while being faithful to their original context and themes. Many believers don't know how to handle Solomon--did he lose his salvation? why did he have all those people killed? was he too rich? did he really have a kid with the queen of Sheba (oh wait, that's just the Rastas)--but Ryken uses the Solomonic narratives from 1 Kings to create a poignant book that addresses well the struggles and temptations of Christians today.
Despite the subtitle, the book actually spends more time focusing on the positive aspects of his reign than on the negative. Early chapters address his accession to the throne (which involved some timely, but justifiable, as Ryken argues, executions), his wish for wisdom, his widening territorial acquisitions, his building of the temple, bringing the ark to the sanctum sanctorum, his fame, and more.
But all was not well in Israel. Why was his palace so much bigger than the temple, and why did it take twice as long to build? Really, from chapter 9 on, it's the beginning of the end for Solomon--not taking the promise/threat of 9:4-5 seriously, intermarriage, idolatry, etc. This is where Ryken really drives home pastorally the need to understand and combat the temptations in his subtitle. All Christians could benefit from reading and pondering this book.
*One interesting point that Ryken made, which I had never thought about before, concerned his idolatry. When you go and conquer a land, you make them worship your gods (think of Rome, Babylon, France, etc.). This is a sign of your power and their subservience. But Solomon got it exactly wrong! He neutralized much of the Levant, and assumed their gods! What a tragic political mistake that led to an even worse moral one. Of course, trying to please his 1,000 women had something to do with it as well. Being unequally yoked to one woman is bad enough. Can you imagine 300 or so?
Despite the subtitle, the book actually spends more time focusing on the positive aspects of his reign than on the negative. Early chapters address his accession to the throne (which involved some timely, but justifiable, as Ryken argues, executions), his wish for wisdom, his widening territorial acquisitions, his building of the temple, bringing the ark to the sanctum sanctorum, his fame, and more.
But all was not well in Israel. Why was his palace so much bigger than the temple, and why did it take twice as long to build? Really, from chapter 9 on, it's the beginning of the end for Solomon--not taking the promise/threat of 9:4-5 seriously, intermarriage, idolatry, etc. This is where Ryken really drives home pastorally the need to understand and combat the temptations in his subtitle. All Christians could benefit from reading and pondering this book.
*One interesting point that Ryken made, which I had never thought about before, concerned his idolatry. When you go and conquer a land, you make them worship your gods (think of Rome, Babylon, France, etc.). This is a sign of your power and their subservience. But Solomon got it exactly wrong! He neutralized much of the Levant, and assumed their gods! What a tragic political mistake that led to an even worse moral one. Of course, trying to please his 1,000 women had something to do with it as well. Being unequally yoked to one woman is bad enough. Can you imagine 300 or so?
June 11, 2011
Reviewed at: Over A Cuppa Tea
Date reviewed:12 June 2011
Review link: http://cleffairy.com/?p=5514
How well do we know the Biblical King, Solomon who was featured in and the Book of Chronicles and the Book of Kings?
When I was a little girl, I see King Solomon as a wise man who knew everything in life because God bestowed him such wisdom. When I grew up a little bit and was a dreamy, hopelessly romantic teenager, I see him as a seductive man who easily seduced the Queen of Sheba with his endless wits. And when I’m an adult, I see him as a man whose downfall was caused by lust and disobedience toward God’s will.
How do you see King Solomon from the Old Testament, I wonder? This book, King Solomon: The Temptations of Money, Sex, and Power written by Philip Graham Ryken is an in depth study of the Biblical king’s life, from cradle to his grave.
It was very well written and researched, and I definitely enjoyed being enlightened by this book. Inspiring read.
A forewarning to those who wants to read this book: You’ll spend a lot of time thinking, so be prepared to think alot if you’re to pick up this book.
I rate this book 5 stars. I received an ARC of this book from Crossway publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review for this book and I was not compensated in any ways for this.
Date reviewed:12 June 2011
Review link: http://cleffairy.com/?p=5514
How well do we know the Biblical King, Solomon who was featured in and the Book of Chronicles and the Book of Kings?
When I was a little girl, I see King Solomon as a wise man who knew everything in life because God bestowed him such wisdom. When I grew up a little bit and was a dreamy, hopelessly romantic teenager, I see him as a seductive man who easily seduced the Queen of Sheba with his endless wits. And when I’m an adult, I see him as a man whose downfall was caused by lust and disobedience toward God’s will.
How do you see King Solomon from the Old Testament, I wonder? This book, King Solomon: The Temptations of Money, Sex, and Power written by Philip Graham Ryken is an in depth study of the Biblical king’s life, from cradle to his grave.
It was very well written and researched, and I definitely enjoyed being enlightened by this book. Inspiring read.
A forewarning to those who wants to read this book: You’ll spend a lot of time thinking, so be prepared to think alot if you’re to pick up this book.
I rate this book 5 stars. I received an ARC of this book from Crossway publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review for this book and I was not compensated in any ways for this.
July 11, 2011
King Solomon by Philip Graham Ryken
Crossway, 2011
200 pages
Non-fiction; Inspirational
4/5 stars
Source: Received a free e-galley via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book is a close reading of the story of Solomon, an incredibly blessed king of Israel who squandered his blessing through his pursuit of money, sex, and power. Ryken compares this to modern pursuits as well as how Jesus followed part of Solomon's example without falling into the same traps. This surprised me as I thought it was just about Solomon but every chapter connected his story to the story of Jesus, encouraging the reader to examine her faith in the light of how Solomon was tempted and failed.
I sort of knew Solomon's story but there were many details that were pointed out to me again as Ryken carefully goes over instances of Solomon's life. Yes, he was very wise and in many ways a good king. But just like all of us humans, he was able to be swayed by money, sex, and power, which ultimately corrupted his kingdom. Instead he ought to have devoted all of his time and energies to God.
I really liked Ryken's insistence on how becoming Christian is not one step of saying that you are a Christian but is instead a day by day, moment by moment decision to accept Jesus and do His will. I think that's something that we all struggle with (I know I do!) and is thus a very universal statement.
Although I liked this book, I did not love it and that is why it receives a 4 rather than a 5.
Crossway, 2011
200 pages
Non-fiction; Inspirational
4/5 stars
Source: Received a free e-galley via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book is a close reading of the story of Solomon, an incredibly blessed king of Israel who squandered his blessing through his pursuit of money, sex, and power. Ryken compares this to modern pursuits as well as how Jesus followed part of Solomon's example without falling into the same traps. This surprised me as I thought it was just about Solomon but every chapter connected his story to the story of Jesus, encouraging the reader to examine her faith in the light of how Solomon was tempted and failed.
I sort of knew Solomon's story but there were many details that were pointed out to me again as Ryken carefully goes over instances of Solomon's life. Yes, he was very wise and in many ways a good king. But just like all of us humans, he was able to be swayed by money, sex, and power, which ultimately corrupted his kingdom. Instead he ought to have devoted all of his time and energies to God.
I really liked Ryken's insistence on how becoming Christian is not one step of saying that you are a Christian but is instead a day by day, moment by moment decision to accept Jesus and do His will. I think that's something that we all struggle with (I know I do!) and is thus a very universal statement.
Although I liked this book, I did not love it and that is why it receives a 4 rather than a 5.
April 12, 2015
This was one of the most edifying books I've read in a long time. Ryken's pastoral style reminded me often of C.H. Spurgeon's sermons (which I love!). Because the book came from Dr. Ryken's sermons from 1 kings 1-11, it's more conversational than technical, though still full of spiritual insights. Dr. Ryken divides up the book into 13 parts on Solomon's life, tracking his slow compromises that eventually led to his open idolatry. Meditating on these truths over the past months has moved my heart into a deeper soberness toward sin and temptation. How easily I could go down this same path. Only by the grace of God, can I avoid the little daily choices that would lead to money, sex, & power destroying me! After each chapter in this book, I would find my heart burning with both a deeper hatred for sin and a deeper longing to please God. I also tremendously enjoyed hearing Ryken take so many opportunities to exalt Christ as the final Solomon who will eternally reign over His kingdom of peace in His perfect wisdom and justice. For the edifying nature of this book, I give it 5 stars.
February 17, 2012
King Solomon was blessed by wisdom however, after he built the temple, his heart went after other things. His heart became divided. The book went over King Solomon and how he came into power and why. Each chapter ended in relation to Christ. There is so much to learn from the Old Testament. It really is a foreshawdow of God's redemptive plan to salvation and mens weaknesses. The book was very clear in the character of God. It gives great insight to the kingdom of God in relationship to Israel's kings. Kingdoms can have a way of drawing us into temptation and away from the Lord and his kingdom. He writes, a Christian is not someone who chooses for Christ once, but someone who chooses for Christ and lives out that choice every day for the rest of his or her life....vital faith relationship to the son of God.
July 26, 2013
A really good book on the life of King Solomon. Solomon has always puzzled me. I always wondered how a person endowed with so much wisdom could act so foolishly. Ryken deals with this problem and in my estimation does a good job explaining how the downfall of Solomon occurred. The book seemed to be a series of sermons compiled into a book rather than just a book the author wrote. Often times that is a negative however in this case, I learned a lot about how to preach from the Old Testament. All Scripture really does point to Christ and each chapter/sermon ended with how that particular aspect of Solomon's life pointed to the greater Solomon, Jesus Christ. Although the biography of Solomon was engaging, I learned more about preaching in this book than many books about preaching and this was my biggest take away from the book.
February 10, 2015
In the world of Reformed literature there are plenty of excellent books on Old Testament Characters. Elisha by Alexander Stewart, or Pink on Elijah. So when i came across this book on Solomon by Ryken I was very much excited.
Unfortunately, I was very much disappointed. The chapters are very much a bare minimum surface level look at Solomon's life. There was no richness or depth and the book was filled out by worldly illustrations that seem to be more important than the text itself. I am beginning to struggle to read modern reformed books of this sort. Is it any wonder there is a lack of spirituality when the people of God are receiving such milk? This may sound harsh and i apologise if it is. But i am very much concerned at the lack meat in the diet of the modern saint. Read the two books i mention above and you will understand what i mean.
Unfortunately, I was very much disappointed. The chapters are very much a bare minimum surface level look at Solomon's life. There was no richness or depth and the book was filled out by worldly illustrations that seem to be more important than the text itself. I am beginning to struggle to read modern reformed books of this sort. Is it any wonder there is a lack of spirituality when the people of God are receiving such milk? This may sound harsh and i apologise if it is. But i am very much concerned at the lack meat in the diet of the modern saint. Read the two books i mention above and you will understand what i mean.
May 10, 2014
This was a nice book on the life of Solomon. It took Mr. Ryken a few chapters to set up the downfall of Solomon, which I thought was the point of the book. But once he got to Solomon's disgrace he really unpacked a great argument for why Solomon fell. Overall a great book that I recommend.
August 31, 2012
This is a very solid, and readable, discussion of I Kings 1-11. While the book is well-written, and has very solid theology, the discussion questions in the back of the book are pretty mediocre.
Read
February 20, 2016One of the best books i've read in 2011. Great work and great insight for us to grow closer to Christ.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews