1 Kings: Walk Before Me FaithfullyНамуна

The division of the kingdom, though prophesied by God through Ahijah in chapter 11, is brought about by foolishness. Jeroboam, who had rebelled against Solomon, returns from Egypt and challenges Rehoboam, Solomon’s son. Rehoboam seeks advice, but foolishly declines the wisdom of the elders who urge him to treat people more lightly than his father had done. Instead, he heeds the advice of younger men to treat the people more harshly (vv. 1–14). 

We are told that ‘the king did not listen to the people, for this turn of events was from the Lord’ (v. 15). This does not excuse Rehoboam, who is guilty of foolishness and pig-headedness. Often in the Bible we see this tension between something bad being ordained by the Lord but the guilty person nevertheless being fully culpable. The same can be said, for example, of Judas. 

Not surprisingly, the people reject ‘the king’ when he reports to them his decision. As a result, ten tribes secede and only Judah (v. 17) remains loyal to Rehoboam, as predicted by Ahijah. The people’s rejection of Rehoboam, though understandable, is a rejection of the house of David (v. 16). Given the promises to David in 2 Samuel 7, it is fair to read into this a rejection of God, a persistent theme through 1 – 2 Kings. 

The true test of character is not a trial but power. Rehoboam fails. His bad behaviour tragically leads the people away from God. How different his foolishness is from the God-given wisdom of Solomon. Today the same tragedy is often played out. Thus we must pray for our church leaders in order that they do not lead people away from God. 

The beginning of Jeroboam’s reign sets the pattern for Israel for the next two centuries. He establishes idolatrous places of worship in Dan and Bethel, announcing his golden calves with words that echo Aaron at Sinai (v. 28). Jeroboam goes on to create new temples, a new priesthood and new festivals (vv. 31–33) to legitimise his reign with a completely new religion.

Reflection

The real test of character is not a trial, but the use of power. Jesus used power for humble service.