The Expositor's Bible: The First Book of Kings

A theological commentary and analysis written in the late 19th century. This work aims to explore the narratives of the First Book of Kings in the Bible, delving into the historical and spiritual significance of its events, characters, and teachings. The subject matter focuses on the reigns of the Israelite kings, especially David and Solomon, and touches on the relationship between God's guidance, moral choices, and national fate. The opening of this scholarly work introduces the importance of understanding the Bible as a compilation of various texts rather than a single narrative. Farrar discusses the historical context and critical approaches to biblical interpretation, emphasizing the need for a deep, human understanding of the scripture. He critiques the idea of treating the Bible as beyond scholarly analysis, advocating for a careful examination of its historical background and literary composition. Overall, the beginning sets the stage for an in-depth examination of the First Book of Kings, highlighting its literary structure, themes of divine sovereignty, and lessons for contemporary readers.