1. Discuss the qualities the Lord sought of a king in Deuteronomy 17:14-20. Explain why the Lord outlined such criteria centuries before the children of Israel cried out for a king.
2. Read through 1 Samuel 8-10. Discover the significant course of events that lead to the selection of the first king of ancient Israel.
3. What was the divine role of a king during the time of ancient Israel?
4. Who were the first four kings of Israel and how are they each related to one another?
5. In Daniel 2:21, it says that God sets up kings and removes kings. Cite three biblical examples of how this text is relevant concerning the will of God and to you in your daily life.
6. Briefly describe the events in the life of King Saul that lead the Lord to choose another king of Israel.
7. Read 2 Samuel 11-12. Although King David was considered to be a good king, what series of events lead him to sin that warranted God to punish him?
8. In light of David’s many sins, how was he still considered to be a man after God’s own heart?
9. The Bible declares King Solomon as the wisest man to have ever lived. Describe what was so profound about the rulership of King Solomon. Consider the passage 1 Kings 3:16-28.
10. Review Deuteronomy 17:14-20. Consider and discuss how King Solomon veered contrary to the qualities God sought in a king.
11. Read Ecclesiastes 12. What profound counsel does King Solomon give concerning life and service to the Lord?
12. Study the life of King Rehoboam in 1 Kings 12. Briefly describe the chronological series of events that lead to rebellion, resulting in the division into the kingdoms of Israel and Judah.
13. Individually or with a partner, research two of the following kings. Pay particular interest to their efforts to support the cause of God. Share your research with a group in some media format.
a. Azariah - 2 Chronicles 26:1-15
b. David - 1 Chronicles 28: 11-12
c. Hezekiah - 2 Chronicles 29
d. Jehoshaphat 2 Chronicles 17-19
e. Josiah - 2 Kings 23
f. Or a king of your choosing
14. Draw a diagram outlining the timeline of the kings of Israel and Judah, include when they came to power and how long they reigned. Have Israel and Judah in a parallel timeline.
15. Create a presentation, speech, or game that illustrates what you have learned about the kings of Israel while earning this honor. Share this presentation with a group.
