The Queen of Sheba risked her life, health and treasures in traveling hundreds of miles (some estimate as much as 1,500 miles) to see whether she could confirm the fascinating reports that came to her ears about the famed king of Israel who succeeded David. Obviously, the queen had an investigative mindset and greatly desired to learn the truth about matters that, to that point, had been dark and hidden from her own understanding. Because of God’s gift to him, Solomon was able to answer every difficult question she introduced (1 Kings 10:3).
Jesus says, in Luke Chapter 11, that the Queen of the South will rise up in judgment and condemn that generation (for not having the same spirit and determination of the queen in seeking/learning hidden truth with an unbiased heart). Even from His youth, Jesus was equipped by the Holy Spirit to answer all the difficult questions posed by the doctors of the Law of Moses (Luke 2:46-47; John 3:34). How is it that Jesus is greater than Solomon was?
Jesus is greater because of the identity of His Father, who is the eternal God. Solomon, the third king of Israel, was born to King David and Bathsheba, who were mortal and are resting in their tombs.
Jesus is greater because of His purity of lifestyle and godly living throughout His lifetime. Solomon’s disobedience and lust for women brought about His departure from God and venture into the abominable practices of idolatry. God became sorely displeased with Solomon.
Jesus is greater because He delivered those who were weary, being burdened by oppression and slavery. Solomon oppressed the people under his dominion and used slaves in the effort to build his kingdom.
Jesus is greater because of the treasure of His riches that He shares with us daily (Ephesians 1:3). They are treasures that cannot be purchased with silver and gold. Solomon promoted trade and industry, but he acknowledged in Ecclesiastes that all his efforts produced vanity and vexation of spirit.
Jesus is greater because He brings an abiding peace and security to us, while Solomon brought a temporary measure of security to those under his rule. Jesus is greater because His kingdom is eternal and its glory shall never fade, while Solomon’s kingdom took a downward spiral, and its glory severely diminished following his death.
Jesus is greater because only He can take away our sins. He is “the Lamb of God,” without spot and without blemish. He sacrificed Himself upon the cross to cleanse our sins and to redeem us to God. Solomon was a sinful man, like us. Solomon could never have resolved man’s sin problem.
Jesus is greater because only He can take us home to see our Heavenly Father. Jesus is the Door unto eternal life. Only through Him can we make it home (John 14:6).
With better choices and self-control, Solomon could have had it all, so to speak. Jesus, however, does have it all. Follow him, and you, too, can have all anyone needs (2 Peter 1:3).
