And the king appointed Benaiah son of Jehoiada in Joab’s place over the army, and he appointed Zadok the priest in Abiathar’s place.
Benaiah and Zadok stepped into roles left vacant by unfaithful men, and here God's promise to raise up a faithful priest was fulfilled. Sacred offices may be disgraced by those who hold them badly, but God's work never stops for want of willing hands.
AI summary
Commenting on 1 Kings 2:35-46
Solomon confined Shimei to Jerusalem, forbidding him to leave the city or cross the brook Kidron, that he might both keep sedition from spreading through the country and have this man under watch. He knew human nature well enough: what men are forbidden they most desire to do, and Shimei would break his bonds and furnish the king occasion to execute his father's charge against him.
AI summary
Joab's crimes warranted death long ago, but his power with the army shielded him until now. He fled to the altar hoping religious scruple would stay the executioner's hand, but the law permits no sanctuary for a murderer and rebel.
AI summary
Commenting on 1 Kings 2:28-45