Accessible commentary walking through 1 Kings to unpack this gripping part of Israel's history and help you experience the power of God's word.
Part of the God's Word For You series.
On the surface, we might feel that the church is being marginalized and our faith is being ridiculed. But God's word is powerful and certain. Just as God's word shaped the history of 1 Kings, it is alive and at work in the world today.
In 1 Kings For You, pastor and theologian Tim Chester helps readers follow the kingship of Israel. He covers David's death, Solomon's wise reign and the building of the temple, and the struggle between King Ahab and the prophet Elijah.
You will see how, despite the inconsistency of Israel's kings, God is faithful. His word has the power to display his lordship, impart wisdom and change hearts. Ultimately, 1 Kings is the story of the true and better King, Jesus Christ, who came to earth to fulfill God's word and reign forever.
God’s Word For You resources are accessible commentaries. They are designed for devotional reading or teaching prep, or to help you dig deeper into the Bible. Each commentary offers expository reflections on a book of the Bible and includes straightforward insights into history, culture and more.
| Contributors | Tim Chester |
|---|---|
| ISBN | 9781802544060 |
| Format | eBook |
| First published | July 2026 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | The Good Book Company |
I have also particularly appreciated Tim Chester’s contribution to the series, his commentaries on Exodus, Matthew and Revelation, which have been invaluable to my own ministry, so when I saw that he had written a commentary on 1 Kings, I jumped at the chance to review it!
In “1 Kings For You,” Tim Chester expertly opens up the ancient world of the Kings of Israel and Judah, whilst sensitively applying it to the strange times that we are living in, and brings the Gospel and Christ to the reader.
As we read about Solomon at the beginning, we learn how, unlike Adam and Eve who wanted to decide what was good and evil, Solomon wanted to discern what was good and evil (p29). We also learn how the Temple in Jerusalem points to a promise that is fulfilled in Christ (p45). I particularly loved the parallel in 1 Kings 19 between the small, faithful remnant of the seven thousand who would not bow the knee to Baal and Christ being the last faithful person after all the disciples abandoned Him on His way to the Cross. When Jesus died, the faithful people came to an end with Him, but then He was raised from the dead, and we rise with Him - the people of God are reborn and there is eternal life from death. (p117)
So who is this book for? “1 Kings For You” is for absolutely everyone, from lay persons, small group leaders and Gospel ministers, there are fresh biblical insights, practical and relevant application, as well as some remarkable Christocentric parallels.
*Disclaimer: TGBC very kindly provided me with a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. My review reflects my honest opinion.
I'll admit it. When I think of commentaries, I usually expect something that's either too academic or too devotional. 1 Kings for You manages to avoid both.
Tim Chester has a way of walking through the text that feels like sitting down with a wise pastor over a cup of coffee. He follows a mostly verse-by-verse approach, so you're never too far from the biblical text itself, but he also does a great job slowing down to point out details and themes I may have missed on my own.
I also appreciated the discussion questions at the end of each chapter. They make this a great resource whether you're studying by yourself or leading a small group.
If you've ever wanted a commentary that's thoughtful without feeling intimidating, I think this series is a great place to start.
