The first book of Kings recounts the lives of the kings of Israel and Judea over a period of 400 years after the death of King David. His son, Solomon, features heavily in these chapters, first to show God's generous blessings to a faithful king and later as an example of the consequences of turning away from God.

This book also details the split of the northern and southern tribes of Israel and the subsequent appointment of the prophet Elijah to bring hope to the true followers of God and vengeance on those who had renounced him.