1 Kings: Walk Before Me FaithfullySample

The opposition against Solomon seen in the previous section now takes a turn for the worse with a strong internal opponent: Jeroboam. As with Hadad the Edomite and Rezon, Jeroboam’s route to rebellion is prompted by God, through the prophet Ahijah. From now on, prophets frequently appear in 1 and 2 Kings as God’s agents for and against kings. God is in control of history. 

Ahijah tears his cloak and invites Jeroboam to take ten pieces to signify he will rule ten of the tribes (vv. 30–31). The reason God is tearing the kingdom away from Solomon is his idolatry (v. 33). But Ahijah makes clear what God had earlier told Solomon: that Solomon’s son will keep one tribe ‘for the sake of David my servant’ (v. 34). Despite Solomon’s sin, God is determined to keep his promises to David, a promise ultimately fulfilled in Jesus. 

As was the case with Solomon, Jeroboam is urged to walk in God’s ways. Even though the kingdom is about to divide, Jeroboam is urged to be godly. While this northern kingdom is distinct, it is still part of the people of God. Indeed, Jeroboam is promised an enduring dynasty like David, if he walks in obedience to God. 

The fact that God himself stirs up opposition to his anointed king shows us his control over and intervention in history. We tend not to attribute such direct sovereignty to God these days, and admittedly it is often hard to interpret God’s sovereign control in modern times. However, while God’s people today are not a nation as ancient Israel was, we ought not to doubt his ongoing sovereignty to bring about his good purposes for this whole world. Perhaps even more than trying to understand the ebb and flow of international affairs, we are called to pray and trust that God still rules. In older times, days of national prayer were not uncommon. Such times of praying for international matters and national leaders remain important as we acknowledge the God who rules.

Reflection

In the global situation in which you live, whether wars, terrorist activities or international turmoil, do you trust that God is in control?