December 19, 2004

THE GREATER THAN SOLOMON

"The queen of the South will rise up in the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and indeed a greater than Solomon is here" (Matthew 12:42, NKJV).

Responding to the demand of the scribes and Pharisees for some sensational sign as proof of His messiahship, Jesus declared Himself to be greater than King Solomon.

King Solomon's message was readily accepted by the Queen of Sheba without any supernatural sign and simply on the strength of his message. In contrast, the leaders of Israel stubbornly rejected Christ's message. In spite of the astonishing signs and wonders that accompanied His teaching, the leaders demanded some spectacular sign to attest His authority. The Jews had Solomon memorialized for his extraordinary wealth, wisdom, and regal splendor. His fame had reached far beyond the boundaries of his dominion. He became known as the king who was wiser than all men (see 1 Kings 4:29-34). But Solomon's great wisdom was a mere reflection of Jesus who is the source of all wisdom.

In wealth Jesus was also greater than Solomon whose staggering fortune included an annual revenue in excess of 666 talents of gold alone--the equivalent of US$18,000,000 (see 1 Kings 10:14). But Solomon's vast wealth pales into insignificance when contrasted with Christ's incalculable riches. All the vast riches of the universe are owned by the One who is greater than Solomon and whose reign is boundless and timeless. "Solomon was one of the greatest kings that ever wielded a scepter. He built the magnificent temple at Jerusalem, giving character and greatness to the Jewish nation. The Jews extolled and honored him, yet... Christ declared, 'A greater than Solomon is here.' "--Signs of the Times, January 27, 1898.

My Prayer Today: Lord, You are truly greater than all. There is none else like You. Amen.