Law 8 | Make Others Come To You
In the Bible, King Solomon is a strong example of someone who embodied Law 8: "Make other people come to you—use bait if necessary." Solomon’s wisdom, wealth, and reputation for justice drew leaders, thinkers, and seekers from distant lands to his kingdom, making him a central figure whom others sought out.
Here’s how Solomon exemplified this principle:
1. Solomon's Fame and Wisdom Attracted the Nations
Scripture: 1 Kings 4:34 – “And there came of all people to hear the wisdom of Solomon, from all kings of the earth, which had heard of his wisdom.”
Context: Solomon didn’t need to seek out others to share his wisdom; instead, his reputation grew so vast that people journeyed from far and wide to learn from him. This included rulers and dignitaries who recognized his unique insight, and they came to benefit from his guidance.
2. The Queen of Sheba’s Visit as a Testament to Solomon’s Appeal
Scripture: 1 Kings 10:1 – “And when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon concerning the name of the Lord, she came to prove him with hard questions.”
Context: The Queen of Sheba traveled a great distance to meet Solomon, bringing with her riches and gifts. This shows how Solomon’s wisdom served as "bait," creating a reputation so compelling that even a powerful queen felt it necessary to visit him personally to test his knowledge.
3. Solomon’s Wealth and Influence
Scripture: 1 Kings 10:23-24 – “So king Solomon exceeded all the kings of the earth for riches and for wisdom. And all the earth sought to Solomon, to hear his wisdom, which God had put in his heart.”
Context: Through his wealth, wisdom, and status, Solomon became a magnet for people across the known world, drawing attention and gifts without ever needing to pursue them actively. People came to Solomon for trade, alliances, and counsel, establishing him as a leader whom others revered and sought after.
Conclusion
In these ways, Solomon exemplifies Law 8 by positioning himself as a person of influence, wisdom, and resourcefulness. His life demonstrates how, by cultivating God-given gifts and strengths, people naturally gravitate toward those who carry wisdom and blessing, allowing him to lead and impact others profoundly.
Sermon: The Power of Godly Wisdom – Drawing Others Through Faithful Leadership
Theme Scripture: 1 Kings 4:34, 1 Kings 10:1, 1 Kings 10:23-24
Introduction Parable
Imagine a young artist living in a small town who quietly paints beautiful landscapes on her porch each day. She doesn’t advertise her work, yet people begin to notice her art as they walk by. The word spreads, and soon people travel from neighboring towns just to see her work. Some people bring gifts, others ask her questions, and many more want to learn from her skill. The artist remains in her small town, continuing to paint faithfully, and yet people keep coming.
Much like this artist, King Solomon’s wisdom attracted people from distant lands. His fame spread because of his God-given knowledge and insight. He didn’t chase after recognition; he simply lived out his calling with excellence. In our walk with God, we too are called to live faithfully in a way that reflects His wisdom and draws others closer to Him.
Main Points
1. Solomon’s Wisdom: A Gift that Drew Others to God’s Glory
Solomon became king with a unique gift from God: unparalleled wisdom. He didn’t seek fame; rather, he prayed for understanding to lead his people well. God honored his request and gave him wisdom that was beyond measure. As Solomon governed, people noticed the impact of his leadership. His wisdom in judgment and his insight in daily matters made Israel a nation people respected and admired. This wasn’t merely admiration for Solomon—it was respect for the God who empowered him.
Scripture: 1 Kings 4:34 – “And there came of all people to hear the wisdom of Solomon, from all kings of the earth, which had heard of his wisdom.”
Commentary: Solomon’s wisdom became famous, attracting people from “all kings of the earth.” People didn’t come out of mere curiosity; they came seeking understanding, looking for counsel and answers. Solomon’s life demonstrated a beautiful truth: Godly wisdom and faithful leadership naturally draw people in, even those who may not know God personally. As Christians, we are called to reflect God’s wisdom and love in a way that draws people to His truth.
Cross-Reference and Context:
James 1:5 – “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” Like Solomon, we can ask God for wisdom, knowing that He freely gives it. James reminds us that this wisdom isn’t something we earn but a gift from a generous God. When God’s wisdom works in our lives, it becomes a beacon that points others toward Him. Just as Solomon’s wisdom brought glory to God, so our prayers for wisdom should aim to honor God, not ourselves.
Through Solomon’s example, we see that living with Godly wisdom often means letting others come to us. As we remain faithful in our calling, God can use us as a living testimony of His grace, truth, and wisdom.
2. The Queen of Sheba’s Journey: Seeking Truth in Humility
One of the most famous examples of people coming to Solomon is the story of the Queen of Sheba. She was a ruler of great wealth and wisdom herself, yet she was curious about Solomon’s wisdom. The Queen of Sheba traveled far, bringing gifts to Solomon, not just to honor him but to genuinely test his knowledge and seek answers. Her journey was an act of humility, as she was willing to acknowledge that Solomon’s wisdom surpassed her own.
Scripture: 1 Kings 10:1 – “And when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon concerning the name of the Lord, she came to prove him with hard questions.”
Commentary: The Queen’s journey was motivated by a desire to learn, proving that godly wisdom draws people in, even those who might normally rely on their own strength or understanding. She came seeking the truth behind Solomon’s wisdom, wanting to see for herself the depth of understanding that he possessed. This visit highlights that when we lead with humility and wisdom, we can become a source of inspiration for others to seek God more deeply.
Cross-Reference and Context:
Matthew 5:14-16 – Jesus said, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Jesus tells us to let our lives shine as a testimony to others. Solomon’s wisdom was a light that attracted even a foreign queen, leading her to see the goodness of God. When we walk in God’s wisdom, we reflect His light, making others curious to know more about Him.
Like Solomon, we can live in such a way that others are drawn to the peace, wisdom, and strength we carry. Our lives become a testimony that leads others to God’s truth, just as the Queen of Sheba was led to witness Solomon’s wisdom.
3. A Lasting Legacy of Wisdom and Influence
Solomon’s wisdom, wealth, and governance became legendary. His reputation grew to the point that people from all over the world traveled to see him. They brought gifts, admired his kingdom, and were eager to witness his wisdom in action. This influence wasn’t about personal gain; it was about Solomon’s desire to govern with righteousness, bringing glory to God.
Scripture: 1 Kings 10:23-24 – “So king Solomon exceeded all the kings of the earth for riches and for wisdom. And all the earth sought to Solomon, to hear his wisdom, which God had put in his heart.”
Commentary: God blessed Solomon with wisdom, and Solomon’s leadership became a light to the nations. His reputation wasn’t merely for his personal benefit but for a greater purpose: to bring others into an awareness of God’s power and presence. Solomon’s legacy shows us that true influence doesn’t require self-promotion but a life lived in faithful devotion to God.
Cross-Reference and Context:
Proverbs 3:13-14 – “Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold.” Solomon himself wrote these words, and his life was a testament to them. God’s wisdom was of greater value than wealth or fame, providing influence and respect that extended far beyond material success. His life reminds us that wisdom is a treasure that blesses both the one who has it and those who seek it.
Solomon’s lasting legacy of wisdom and influence was rooted in God’s wisdom, not his own. By living according to God’s principles, we, too, can leave a legacy that speaks of God’s glory and wisdom.
Conclusion: Jesus as the Perfect Example of a Life that Draws Others
As much as Solomon’s life exemplified godly wisdom, Jesus is the ultimate example of a life that naturally drew people to God. Jesus never had to force people to listen to Him; His wisdom, compassion, and authority attracted crowds wherever He went. Jesus positioned Himself as a teacher, healer, and servant, and His actions revealed the love of the Father.
Scripture: Matthew 11:28 – “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Jesus extended an open invitation for anyone who sought comfort, healing, and truth. He lived in such a way that people naturally wanted to come to Him, finding in Him the answers they were searching for.
Commentary: Jesus didn’t merely speak words of wisdom—He embodied them. People came to Him with questions, burdens, and needs because He provided something no one else could. His invitation to “Come unto me” was rooted in deep love and compassion, setting a model for us to draw others toward God with humility and grace.
Through His life, Jesus showed us that the greatest influence comes from living out God’s truth. Like Solomon, He drew people from all walks of life, but His purpose went beyond wisdom; it led to salvation. As we walk in wisdom, humility, and love, we too can draw others to the presence of God, becoming beacons of His hope and grace.
In our daily lives, may we reflect the light and love of Christ, letting our lives be an invitation for others to come to know Him. Solomon’s wisdom was extraordinary, but the wisdom of Christ leads us to eternal life. Let’s live with a faith that points others to Him, so that like Solomon—and ultimately like Christ—we may draw others to the source of true wisdom and salvation.
Remember: Power and Peace.