SERIES SUMMARY 

The Bible is the story of God as King and becoming King in Jesus. And we are his image bearers, created for royal reflection. But we don’t live in a monarchy, so “kingship” and “royalty” can feel like foreign ideas to us. Yet, we’re still called to recognize and submit to God as King. In the Old Testament, it was God’s desire for a king to reign over his people as a reminder of these things. Specifically, God promised David a son who would reign forever, and we see glimpses of this promised king in Solomon. Through his story, we’re reminded that there should be a royal wisdom that defines us as God’s kingdom of priests, the church. But ultimately, Solomon failed in his royal reflection. So, the question is, what does Solomon’s story teach us about ourselves and God? How can the life of Solomon be instructive to us as God’s people today? And most importantly, how does King Solomon (a son of David) point us to King Jesus (the son of David)?

PASSAGE GUIDE

The Bible presents wisdom not only as intellectual knowledge or spiritual discernment but also as practical skill in every part of life. The Hebrew word ḥokmāh (wisdom) extends beyond morality or philosophy into craftsmanship, leadership, artistry, and daily work. Artisans, administrators, farmers, and even sailors were described as having wisdom when they used God-given skill in their craft. This perspective removes any division between sacred and secular, affirming that all faithful work, done with excellence and in dependence on God, can be an act of worship.

This broader understanding of wisdom is clearly displayed in Solomon’s reign. When God granted him wisdom, it was not limited to moral insight but included the ability to govern well, build effectively, and manage resources with discernment. In 1 Kings 5, we see Solomon applying this wisdom to practical matters such as diplomacy, partnerships, and construction planning. This demonstrates that wisdom acts even in the details of everyday work.

Proverbs 22:29 encapsulates this principle: “Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.” The proverb teaches that excellence and diligence in one’s craft lead to advancement and recognition. The Hebrew phrasing emphasizes skill and efficiency in one’s occupation, closely connected to the biblical idea of wisdom. Such skill is not simply human achievement but a reflection of God-given ability, just as Bezalel and other artisans of the tabernacle were said to be “wise of heart.” This shows practical expertise, shaped by divine wisdom.

The implications for us are profound. Wisdom is not confined to spiritual decisions or moral crises but extends to all aspects of our work, relationships, and responsibilities. God desires to give wisdom for timing decisions, for partnerships that complement our strengths and weaknesses, and for excellence in preparation and execution. This wisdom dignifies all honest labor, whether crafting, teaching, leading, serving, or creating. Every sphere of life is an arena where God’s wisdom can be displayed.

Ultimately, this comprehensive view of wisdom points us to Christ, who is called the wisdom of God. He embodies perfect skill in living according to the Father’s will and shows us how divine wisdom integrates every aspect of life. Through Him, believers are invited to seek and apply wisdom in both the sacred and the seemingly ordinary, so that all of life reflects God’s glory and purposes.

*We are a church located in Greenville, South Carolina. Our vision is to see God transform us into a community of grace passionately pursuing life and mission with Jesus.

SUGGESTIONS FOR COMMUNITY GROUP QUESTIONS    

Remember, these are “suggested” questions. You do not have to go through every single one of them. You do not need to listen to both sermons at both campuses to participate in the discussion.  

OPENING PRAYER

“Lord of wisdom, thank You for giving us Your Word. As we read and discuss this passage, open our eyes to see how Your wisdom applies not just to spiritual matters but also to the everyday work of our lives. Teach us to discern Your timing, to form healthy partnerships, and to prepare with diligence in all things. Amen.”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. What did the Spirit show you as you read and listened to the sermon and text? 
2. How does 1 Kings 5 show us that wisdom includes both spiritual insight and practical skill?
3. In what ways does the Hebrew concept of ḥokmāh (wisdom) expand our understanding beyond just “head knowledge”?
4. How does the partnership between Solomon and Hiram illustrate wisdom in relationships?
5. What does it mean that Solomon’s wisdom was recognized even by outsiders, like Hiram and the Queen of Sheba?
6. Why might the author highlight the cedars of Lebanon and the Sidonians’ craftsmanship? What does that teach us about honoring excellence outside of Israel?
7. In what ways does this text expand our view of wisdom beyond personal morality into areas like economics, trade, and craftsmanship?
8. How does Hiram’s response (“Praise the LORD… for giving David a wise son”) show that wisdom can bear witness to outsiders?
9. Where in your own life or work do you most need God’s wisdom right now—timing, relationships, or preparation?
10. How can you invite God into your everyday work decisions, not just your spiritual decisions?
11. How can you practice excellence in your craft or vocation as an act of worship to God?
12. What’s one specific way you can “guard your heart” from the competing voices of worldly wisdom this week?

Life with Jesus: If “wisdom is skill in living,” what’s one daily rhythm you could adopt to grow in practical godly wisdom?

Life in Community: What partnerships or collaborations might God be calling you to form that would strengthen your work, ministry, or family life?

Life on Mission: Recognize one person in your life who has some skill in living, whether they know Jesus or not. 

CLOSING PRAYER 

“Father, thank You for showing us that wisdom is a gift that shapes every part of life. Help us to walk in Your wisdom this week—in our decisions, our work, our relationships, and our service. May our lives reflect the skill, integrity, and faithfulness that come from You alone. Guide us by Your Spirit and keep us close to Christ, who is our wisdom. Amen.”