Main Texts:
- Proverbs 22:28
- 1 Kings 2:1, 8–9, 36–46
Intro: The Origin of Phrases
- “Honeymoon” – From mead given after marriage.
- “Bite the Bullet” – Soldiers enduring pain without anesthesia.
- “Give Someone the Cold Shoulder” – Guests who overstayed their welcome in the Middle Ages were served cold leftovers like a shoulder of mutton.
- “Don’t Cross the Line” – Originated from physical boundaries drawn on land or in sports; evolved to mean moral/spiritual boundaries.
Proverbs 22:28 – Remove Not the Ancient Landmark
- Historical Context: Stones marked tribal and family lands in Israel.
- Spiritual Significance:
- 🪧 Provision – Trust in God’s placement.
- 💎 Promise – Treasure of God's covenant.
- 📈 Power – Track record of God’s faithfulness.
The Ancient Landmarks Represent:
- 🕯️ Memorial of Remembrance
- 🔥 Monument to Revival
- 📖 Miraculously Relevant Truths
Illustration from 1 Kings 2:1, 8–9, 36–46 – The Story of Shimei
- Shimei was shown mercy by Solomon—given life on one condition: don’t leave Jerusalem (don’t cross the line).
- He eventually broke that condition, and it cost him his life.
Three Things Shimei Could Have Said
1. “I’ve Been Faithful” (v.39)
- Years of obedience don’t erase one act of rebellion.
- Quote: “By breaking his oath to God and Solomon, the old curser of David cursed himself.”
- Key Point: Past faithfulness does not guarantee present obedience.
- ✝️ We don’t work for God's love or favor—we work from the Cross.
- Guard your testimony
- Guard your sanctification
- Stay in bounds
2. “It’s Not That Far” (v.40)
- Geography may have seemed insignificant—but obedience matters.
- Historical Note: Shimei could’ve possibly gone to Gath without crossing Kidron, but intent still broke the king's command.
- 🔑 Application: When you're tempted to compromise—go talk to the King (God) before crossing the line.
3. “What About Forgiveness?” (v.41–43)
- David had forgiven.
- Solomon had given a second chance.
- But willful disobedience leads to judgment.
- ❗Grace should lead to gratitude, not presumption.
Conclusion
- Solomon removed those whose hearts were not loyal—then came peace.
- ✝️ Likewise, we experience peace when we remove what opposes Christ’s reign in our hearts.
“I have decided—I will not cross the line.”
