May – From Glory to Ruin

See A Plan for Bible Reading for the year-long schedule of reading with downloadables.

Here we begin with the glory of Solomon’s kingdom, but quickly see it move toward division and decline. Despite moments of reform, the deeper problem remains unchanged – a failure of the heart. This month’s study reveals that no human king can sustain God’s kingdom or bring it to its full fruition, pointing us toward the need for a greater and more faithful King.

Week 1 — Solomon’s Wisdom, Kingdom, and Glory

Reading: 1 Kings 1–10; 2 Chronicles 1–9 (and Psalms 39–47)

Solomon inherits the kingdom from David, and under God’s provision his reign reaches a high point of wisdom, wealth, and glory. His leadership is marked by God-given insight and the central act of building the temple – a visible sign of God’s presence among His people.

Guiding questions:

1. What stands out in Solomon’s prayers, especially at the dedication of the temple?
2. How does Solomon’s wisdom strengthen his leadership and reflect his early trust in God?
3. Why is the building of the temple such a significant moment in Israel’s history?
4. How does the glory of Solomon’s kingdom point to a greater reality in the biblical story?

Week 2 — The Division of the Kingdom

Reading: 2 Chronicles 10–16; 1 Kings 11–19 (and Psalms 48–59)

After Solomon’s death, the kingdom divides into Israel (north) and Judah (south). This division shapes the rest of the Old Testament, revealing the consequences of unfaithfulness while maintaining a complex and connected story between the two kingdoms.

Guiding questions:

1. What are the root causes of the kingdom’s division—spiritually, politically, and relationally?
2. How does the division unfold, and what does it reveal about leadership and responsibility?
3. How is God at work in these events, and what does this show about His character?
4. Why does God allow this division in light of His promises to Abraham and David?

Week 3 — The Kings of Israel and Judah

Reading: 1 Kings 20–22; 2 Chronicles 17–20 (and Psalms 60–80)

The narratives of Israel and Judah unfold side by side, marked by cycles of faithfulness and failure. Kings are evaluated by their obedience to God, while the prophet Elijah emerges as a powerful voice calling the people back to covenant faithfulness.

Guiding questions:

1. What repeated phrases describe each king’s reign, and what do they reveal about this period?
2. Which kings follow in the ways of their predecessors, and why does this matter?
3. Who is Elijah, and why is his role so significant in both the Old and New Testaments?
4. How do miracles confirm God’s authority and message during this time?

Week 4 — Elisha and the Fall of Israel

Reading: 2 Kings 1–17; Obadiah (and Psalms 81–90)

The Northern Kingdom of Israel declines steadily and ultimately falls into exile. Through the ministries of Elijah and Elisha, God continues to call His people to repentance, demonstrating both His power and His patience in the face of persistent rebellion.

Guiding questions:

1. What is significant about the transfer of responsibility from Elijah to Elisha?
2. How does God show grace and mercy even as judgment approaches?
3. Why are the prophets’ voices so critical during this period?
4. What do these events teach about the consequences of rejecting God?

Finishing the Month — Judah’s Kings

Reading: 2 Chronicles 21–28 (and Psalms 91–94)

Judah continues after Israel’s fall, but with a mixture of corruption and renewal. Even among unfaithful kings, God raises up moments of reform, showing His continued commitment to His covenant and His people.

Guiding questions:

1. Why is there such contrast between successive kings, even within the same family?
2. What does this reveal about the importance of spiritual formation and instruction?
3. How does God continue to speak to His people during this time?
4. What do these patterns reveal about God’s patience and faithfulness?