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Schools of the Prophets
35
Principles Seen in David’s Character
The principles taught in the schools of the prophets were the
same that molded David’s character and shaped his life. The word
of God was his instructor. “Through Your precepts,” he said, “I get
understanding. ... I have inclined my heart to perform Your statutes.”
Psalm 119:104-112
. It was this that caused the Lord to pronounce
David “a man after My own heart.”
Acts 13:22
.
In the early life of Solomon also are seen the results of God’s
method of education. Solomon in his youth made David’s choice his
own. Above every earthly good he asked of God a wise and under-
standing heart. And the Lord gave him not only that but riches and
honor. The power of his understanding, the extent of his knowledge,
the glory of his reign, became the wonder of the world.
In the reigns of David and Solomon, Israel reached the height of
its greatness. The promise given to Abraham and repeated through
Moses was fulfilled: “If you will diligently observe this entire com-
mandment that I am commanding you, loving the Lord your God,
walking in all His ways, and holding fast to Him, then the Lord
will drive out all these nations before you, and you will dispossess
nations larger and mightier than yourselves. ... No one will be able
to stand against you.”
Deuteronomy 11:22-25
, NRSV.
But in the midst of prosperity lurked danger. The sin of David’s
later years, though sincerely repented of and severely punished,
emboldened the people in transgression of God’s commandments.
And Solomon’s life, after a morning of great promise, was darkened
with apostasy. Desire for political power and self-aggrandizement
led to alliance with heathen nations. The silver of Tarshish and the
gold of Ophir were obtained by sacrificing integrity and betraying
sacred trusts. Association with idolaters and marriage with heathen
wives corrupted his faith. The barriers that God had set in place for
the safety of His people were thus broken down, and Solomon gave
himself up to the worship of false gods. On the summit of the Mount
of Olives, confronting the temple of Jehovah, were erected gigantic
[34]
images and altars for the service of heathen deities.
As he cast off his allegiance to God, Solomon lost the mastery
of himself. His fine sensibilities became blunted. The conscientious,
considerate spirit of his early reign was changed. Pride, ambition,