This makes clear what election is. When Solomon receives grace, it is as if the Lord says, “I do it not for your sake, Solomon, but for my holy name’s sake.” It is not because of Solomon, and ultimately not even because of David that God is so merciful. It is because of Jerusalem that the Lord has chosen. That also underlines that it is purely God’s work. He wants to receive glory in Jerusalem.
13 However, I will not tear away all the kingdom, but I will give one tribe to your son, for the sake of David my servant and for the sake of Jerusalem that I have chosen.”