Syncretism'� mixing true worship with false worship'� was part of the beginning, the middle and the end of Israel's decline into exile. But is it something that Christians need to defend ourselves against? We think of ourselves as far too sophisticated to worship more than one God at the same time. But syncretism is a very subtle thing'� and worshipping God while sneaking a bit of idolatry in on the side is as subtle as it is deadly.

What are the sins behind Israel's decline? There are many, beginning with Solomon's lust, Rehoboam's pride, and Jeroboam's thirst for power. They are a slippery slope that leads dangerously into spiritual malaise, and ultimately to apostasy. The Christian may well take care to their own souls, ensuring that lust, pride and power do not find a home.

Israel's decline, as God's people go from the joyful rule of David to the bitter slavery of Babylon, is not just the story of king after king rejecting God. It is also the story of God's prophets calling those kings, and calling all Israel, back to God. God sends prophet after prophet'� but with little long term effect.

1 Kings 11 begins a new movement in the biblical narrative'� from the monarchy to exile; from blessing under David and Solomon, to servitude as slaves under the rule of a foreign tyrant. This is the terrible Decline, which began in the latter part of Solomon's reign but quickly gathered pace under Rehoboam.

At the conclusion of the dedication of the Jerusalem temple, Solomon prays that God would hear the prayers of his people. God is near. He is among his people. And so, hearing their prayers, he will surely answer them.

The completion and dedication of the Temple marks Solomon's greatest moment. The visit of the Queen of Sheba demonstrates his greatness across many fields, hinting at the blessing of all nations through God's King. But then, very suddenly, compromise gives birth to decay. When Solomon had reached the top, there was only one way to go.