2 Chronicles 13 - The Folly of Fighting the Lord

2 Chronicles 13

"Now behold, God is with us at our head and His priests with the signal trumpets to sound the alarm against you. O sons of Israel, do not fight against the Lord God of your fathers, for you will not succeed." (verse 12) 

Message: The Folly of Fighting the Lord

Time: 2 Chronicles, like 1 Chronicles has a mystery writer and was separated into 2 books in 200 BC when the Septuagint was translated. This book focuses on Judah from 971-586 BC. The chronicler focused on the blessings God bestowed when leaders were faithful to His law. It covers Solomon's ascension to the throne to Judah finally carried into exile in Babylon. 

What the Lord is Saying: Abijah is king of the south (Judah) and Jeroboam is king of the north (Israel). Abijah reigned 3 years. Abijah had 400,000 men and Jeroboam, 800,000 (though the actual numbers are believed to be 40,000 and 80,000). Abijah appeals to Jeroboam in an outcry that the Lord God gave the rule over Israel to David and his descendants (verse 5) - and thus he believes he is aligned more correctly than Jeroboam. Jeroboam abandoned God by setting up his own means of worship and sacrifice and a different form of priesthood. Abijah also mentions a covenant signified with salt - a necessary part of a sacrifice and part of the covenant renewal between God and man. Jeroboam rebelled (verse 6) though Solomon had previously put him in charge of the labor force. Jeroboam was aided by wicked men (verse 7). Good or bad, you can always find enough men and women to rally around you. 

In verse 8, Abijah now confronts this coalition, that they would have the gall to resist the kingdom of David, even with their larger numbers of military prowess, coming to David with man-made gods. Jeroboam believed that he could make human appointment for sacrifices. The problem with Jeroboam is he believed he was doing right, and he changed the way of worship to fit himself and help him be comfortable. He wasn't one that necessarily promulgated a different God. He simply wanted to change the manner of worship and sacrifice, not appealing to God but instead to what made sense to him. 

In verse 10-12, by him doing this, he has forsaken the Lord. My guess is Jeroboam didn't agree and my guess is he thought he was doing right because this is what most people think. They believe that their way of doing things is not only just as good, but often better. He might have called Abijah's ways the old way of doing things. Abijah even says in verse 12, "Do not fight against the Lord God of your fathers." 

Jeroboam had a good plan of action in confronting and coming against Abijah, attacking them "both front and rear." But in the end God honored Judah and the victory was given to them as "Abijah and his people defeated them" (verse 17). Why? "Because they trusted in the Lord, the God of their fathers" (verse 18). "Jeroboam did not again recover strength....and the Lord struck him and he died" (verse 20). 

Abijah followed what Solomon and David had done in taking many wives and fathered many children (v. 21). 

To me, this text is sort of scary. Yes, God prevails over those that try to set up alternative forms of worship, but I don't believe Jeroboam was trying to not worship God. He was simply wanting to do it in his way believing that he now had a better way of doing it. But he also went to fight Judah. His focus was self and what he thought was right rather than looking to God for assistance and guidance. 

Summary: Abijah and Jeroboam engage in war with Abijah/Judah prevailing because God was on their side. 

Promise: God is on the side of those who rightly praise His name and seek His honor.

Prayer: God, there is a danger in this text and that is going after God in one's own way, thinking that there is an easier way. I wonder at times if I practice the way of Jeroboam while believing I am still part of the favored way of David. Give me guidance and wisdom to know what is right and what is wrong. Help me to seek You always. For those that are in the way of Jeroboam, may they repent and remove their pride so that they can truly see their right place before You. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

TABLETALK - August 2019

2019 looks at the history of Old Testament Israel showing that the failures and successes of the Israelites led to the coming of Jesus, the Savior who redeems us from sin and empowers us by His Spirit to bear spiritual fruit in obedience to Him. 

January 2019 (October 25, 2024 - January 23, 2025) - Joshua 1-14 - How the Lord brought Israelites into Canaan

February 2019 (January 24, 2025 - July 6, 2025) - Joshua 15 to Judges 11 - God calls his people to finish driving out the inhabitants of Canaan, but they fail. God disciplines them and saves them from destruction. 

March 2019 (July 7, 2025 - August 24, 2025) - Judges 12 to I Samuel 1 - God's people may fall into great sin, but there is always a righteous remnant. 

April 2019 (August 25, 2025 - January 20, 2026) - I Samuel 2 to I Samuel 17 - Israel transitions from the eras of the judges to the monarchy. And also see Israel's ongoing conflict with the Philistines. 

May 2019 (January 21, 2026 - February 19, 2026) - I Samuel 17 to 2 Samuel 5 - David is on the run between his anointing and his assumption of the throne of Israel. 

June 2019 (February 20, 2026 - March 12, 2026) - 2 Samuel 6 to 2 Samuel 15 - David begins his 40 year reign of Judah/Israel.

July 2019 (March 13, 2026 - April 14, 2026) - 2 Samuel 16 to I Kings 2 - David is protected from Absalom’s revolt and Solomon succeeds him as king. 

August 2019 (April 15, 2026 - September 21, 2026) - 1 Chronicles 29, 1 Kings 2-14, 2 Chronicles 3-12 - The reign of Solomon builds the temple and his palace, but because of his latter disobedience the kingdoms of Judah/Israel are divided with separate kings in Jeroboam and Rehoboam. 

I Chronicles 29:10-30 - Solomon Exalted - David offers a beautiful prayer praising God and confirming all of our riches are from God. Then Solomon is anointed king again. 

I Kings 2:10-27 - Adonijah's Treachery - Adonijah once again comes before Solomon to usurp his authority in hopes of laying claim to the throne. Solomon has him killed but spares the life of Abiathar the priest.

I Kings 2:28-46 - Joab and Shimei Eliminated - Solomon followed through on David's request to have Joab and Shimei killed. 

I Kings 3 - Solomon's Great Wisdom - Solomon begins to intermarry from other nations, then prays to God that He would give him discernment in making decisions and is given practice in this between two harlots and their babies. 

I Kings 4 - The Glory of Solomon - Solomon establishes his leaders and all of his provisions. 

I Kings 5 - Solomon Prepares for the Temple - Solomon hires the Sidonians and people of Tyre to provide cedars for the construction. 

2 Chronicles 3 - Solomon Builds the Temple - Solomon builds the temple in 7 years with the site being on the threshing floor marking the separation God makes in us from the secular to the sacred. 

I Kings 6:37-7:12 - Solomon Builds the Palace - The Temple is completed in 7 years. Solomon's palace is completed in 13 years. The Temple was first to be completed and the priority. The palace had multiple functions and was larger.

I Kings 7:13-51 - Furnishings for the Temple - All of the elements and structural parts of the temple are described with a strong emphasis on preparation and organization of material in performing the sacrifices. 

2 Chronicles 5:1-6:11 - The Ark Comes to the Temple - Samuel gathers the elders and leaders together to bring the ark to the inner sanctuary of the temple he has built, and God presences is seen in a thick cloud. 

2 Chronicles 6:12-42 - Solomon's Prayer of Dedication

2 Chronicles 7 - The Temple Dedication - After Solomon prayer of dedication, God makes a covenant with His people as they walk in obedience, pray, humble, obey, and turn from their wicked ways. 

2 Chronicles 8:1-9:12 - Solomon's Accomplishments and Renown - Solomon demonstrates his power, wealth, and influence while also showing his commitment to worshipping God daily and seeking forgiveness for his sins. 

I Kings 10:14-11:8 - Solomon's Disobedience - While Solomon accumulated a lot of riches and had access to much wealth his life was also marked by union with many women and this led him away from following God completely. 

I Kings 11:9-43 - Solomon's Final Days - The Lord was angry with Solomon. His final days was marked by God raising up adversaries and splitting the Israelite kingdom. And then he died.

I Kings 12:1-24 - A Young King's Folly - Jeroboam petitions Rehoboam for mercy and does not receive it and in return receives the 10 tribes of Israel while Rehoboam gets Judah and a division results. 

2 Chronicles 11:5-12:16 - Rehoboam's Reign - Rehoboam's reign is marked by taking on many wives and concubines and forsaking the Lord which results in a king of Egypt taking over the land, but not destroying it because the people repent. 

I Kings 12:25-33 - Jeroboam I Breaks the Covenant - Jeroboam fears that if his people leave his area to go worship and sacrifice in Jerusalem then they will turn their allegiance to Rehoboam so he sets up alternate ways to worship and sacrifice in his area. 

I Kings 13 - A Disobedient Prophet - A prophet is sent to speak judgment toward Jeroboam's alternative worship plans for his people. In returning home, the prophet is taken off course by another man which eventually results in his death from that disobedience. 

I Kings 14:1-15:8 - The Fall of Jeroboam I and Rehoboam - From the northern and southern kingdom, the reigns of Jeroboam and Rehoboam, respectively, did evil in the sight of the Lord. Jeroboam's consequences are detailed. 

Philippians 4:13 - Rarely do we hear "I can do all things through Christ..." from the losers side. No one should think that when apart from winning Christ is not there and guiding steps. The "all things" Paul is referencing is “hunger,” “need,” and being “brought low.” Christ must sustain His people in easier seasons as well, because the temptation to forget God arises not only when His blessings are absent but also when they abound.

Isaiah 43:25 - God says, “I will not remember your sins.” This is figurative language to communicate to Israel the complete forgiveness of our sins. 

I Corinthians 13:13 - In 1 Corinthians 13:13, Paul writes, “So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love,” leading some Christians to conclude that love is more important than faith or hope. While we wait for the return of Jesus, we need faith, hope, and love in equal and increasing measure. The greatest part is referring to our time in heaven. 

Matthew 7:1 - “Judge not, that you be not judged.” The reason you confront another person about his sin is to win him over, not to put him down, condemn him, or make yourself feel superior to him. There is a standard of right and wrong, and it is contained in the Scriptures.

Jeremiah 29:11 -  “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” This is not a health and wealth verse to apply. Jeremiah had warned the Judahites that punishment was coming, and he pleaded with them to repent of their idolatry and evildoing. The Lord promised that after a time, He would bring them back (Jer. 29:10). 

Galatians 3:28 - "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." The parity he’s advocating is with respect to salvation; it’s not a wholesale blurring of all human distinctions. Distinctions in the church, so long as they aren’t divisive, are permitted, while partiality of any kind is not.

I John 4:8 - That God is love is certainly a truth to be shouted from the rooftops as well as to be treasured in our hearts. But it is the same with all His attributes. One is not more beautiful than another; one is not primary over the others. None is in tension with the others, and all are essential. There is perfect harmony within the being of God, with all His attributes belonging essentially and necessarily to His glory.

Revelation 3:16 - The City Laodicea was situated 5 miles from Hierapolis which had a natural and medicinal hot spring. Colossae, 10 miles away had a cold spring from water drinking.  By saying hot or cold Jesus is not asking his followers to choose obedience or disobedience, but to be profitable, choosing to be hot or cold. What He doesn't want is someone lukewarm. 

Revelation 3:20 - This verse is not about asking Jesus into our heart. It is written to the church at Laodicea to repent for having departed from the gospel of the kingdom Christ gave it to proclaim. The church must continually examine themselves and repent if they are choosing any paths that do not seek to reconcile the World to Christ. 

The God of All Comfort - How well do I suffer? Our focus needs to be on providing comfort to those suffering. May we receive these benedictions: (1) The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. (2 Cor. 13:14); (2) Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word. (2 Thess. 2:16–17). Amen. 

Love Believes All Things - We are to think the best of others. We often default in thinking the best of ourselves, not the best of others. We need to come alongside and rejoice with their victories and encourage them in their defeats. 

A Blueprint for Living - There is no issue in living a simple life. But we need to take direction still from the Bible and its teachings on how to live. The world does not like anyone telling anyone else how to live, but we need the direction of Scripture to inform us. 

Rebutting Objections to the Pro-Life Position - The Abortion issues comes down to protecting life and looks at some of the most common questions today on the issue. One question I didn't see addressed is one of the common reasons mentioned today and that is when the fetus is known to show signs of not being a normal and healthy baby. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

I Kings 14:1-15:8 - The Fall of Jeroboam I and Rehoboam

I Kings 14:1-15:8 

And Judah did evil in the sight of the Lord, and they provoked Him to jealousy more than all that their fathers had done, with the sins which they committed. For they also built for themselves high places and pillars and Asherim on every high hill and beneath every luxuriant tree. And there were also male cult prostitutes in the land. They did according to all the abominations of the nations which the Lord dispossessed before the sons of Israel. (14:22-24)

Message: The Fall of Jeroboam I and Rehoboam 

Time: The author of 1&2 Kings (originally 1 book) is not known. First Kings follows the history of this divided kingdom from the death of David around 971 BC through the year 853 BC. First Kings reveals Solomon’s relationship with Yahweh and introduces the prophet Elijah who pronounces judgment on the evil northern king Ahab. Like other books, it helps us to understand the history of Israel and Judah.

What the Lord is Saying: In the preceding chapter, at the end of the chapter it is mentioned that "Jeroboam did not return from his evil way." The problem with Jeroboam is he did not turn from his evil ways but continued. He also did not take the naming of priests seriously, but instead "he made priests...from among all the people." In his world, he could name whomever to take upon the role as priest. Despite Jeroboam being warned, he did not change. Jeroboam's problem was he did right in his own eyes. This is the biggest problem of man and one I think we must be careful to observe --People make up their own rules and follow their own personal feelings or desires instead of obeying an external, higher authority or absolute moral law. 

I was speaking to a man from work yesterday who said that he no longer attends church. He seemed to have genuine faith but he felt like because of the crookedness of leadership in churches, it was better for him to not practice church. I have heard of others doing this, but this seems contrary to God's words. To me, man is deciding it is easier to not do church. He also mentioned his daughter marrying an atheist. But, what can we do with our children at times. They must sow their own seeds. 

Thus, as chapter 14 begins, Abijah is mentioned. He is the son of Jeroboam. He is ill. The author seems to be connecting the sin and destruction of Jeroboam's house with Abijah, his son's sickness. Perhaps we need to look at the illness that comes into our lives for a connection to sin - not only personal sin, but national sin as well. Then in verse 2, Jeroboam tells his wife to disguise herself and go to the prophet Ahijah, who was known to communicate God's messages to Jeroboam. She brought food with her to give to him. Ahijah is now blind. The Lord told Ahijah that Jeroboam's wife was coming in disguise and so Ahijah calls Jeroboam's wife her real name upon her arrival. 

In verse 7-16 pronounces a judgment on Jeroboam, by way of Ahijah. His judgment on Jeroboam is intense. First of all, Jeroboam had a model of good and righteous behavior with David and he ignored it. It had been 40 years since David's reign ended. Solomon's reign began good but then ended poorly in the way of submitting and surrendering to God and now Jeroboam is even worse and in verse 9 he is called to "have done more evil than all who were before you." He defined worship and deity in the manner he was more comfortable with and that was more convenient. Those closet to Jeroboam will receive the worst death - "the dogs will eat." When his wife enter the city Abijah will die upon entry (v. 12). In verse 20, it states Jeroboam reigned 22 years, died and his son Nadab reigned in his place. 

Meanwhile, Rehoboam reigned in Judah (the son of Solomon); verse 21. Rehoboam did not fare any better than Jeroboam. "Judah did evil in the sight of the Lord" (verse 22). Nothing good is said of Rehoboam. These people also "built for themselves high places." They substituted what God had made with something else that fit their liking. 

Another king of Egypt (to the south) comes up against Jerusalem, taking treasures and shields of gold from Jeroboam. Jeroboam made shields of bronze to replace. Rehoboam's reign ends after 17 years and his son Abijam takes his place. (v. 25-31). Abijam did no better as "he walked in all the sins of his father" (15:3).  

Summary: From the northern and southern kingdom, the reigns of Jeroboam and Rehoboam, respectively, did evil in the sight of the Lord. Jeroboam's consequences are detailed. 

Promise: Let us serve God faithfully, continually, consistently. 

Prayer: God, you establish ways for us to worship. Sometimes I think I look for the way that is most convenient or justify my worship ways and modes of worship. I am not sure I am always careful to align myself with your plans for me. I pray that our ways of worship are true and praiseworthy. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

I Kings 13 - A Disobedient Prophet

I Kings 13 

After this event Jeroboam did not return from his evil way, but again he made priests of the high places from among all the people; any who would, he ordained, to be priests of the high places. (verse 33)

Message: A Disobedient Prophet

Time: The author of 1&2 Kings (originally 1 book) is not known. First Kings follows the history of this divided kingdom from the death of David around 971 BC through the year 853 BC. First Kings reveals Solomon’s relationship with Yahweh and introduces the prophet Elijah who pronounces judgment on the evil northern king Ahab. Like other books, it helps us to understand the history of Israel and Judah.

What the Lord is Saying: Jeroboam sought an alternative for his people, setting up places to worship God, crafting golden calves. At this time in history, worship and sacrifice was to occur at the temple. The people of Israel had planned to go to Jerusalem but he gave them another way. But the text doesn't say that he consulted God on this. He came up with a different way and possibly a way where he could kept control. Verse 1 of chapter 13 mentions a man of God coming to Jeroboam. He is unnamed. His mission is to speak from the word of the Lord (a prophet), to confront the unauthorized worship taking place at Bethel. The man speaks of Josiah coming in the future (prophecy); one who will come and restore and deal with these false forms of worship (verse 2). It is made clear that the altar set up will be split and the ashes of the sacrifices will be rejected (verse 3). 

Jeroboam didn't like what was being said and told his guards to seize the man but in the process Jeroboam's hand withered and he could not complete his plan (verse 4). Instead the altar was split and ashes spilled out (verse 5). Jeroboam's cries out for mercy that the man of God would intercede and restore his hand (verse 6). Jeroboam asks the man to have a meal, but the man says the word of the Lord said to him, "You shall eat no bread, nor drink water, no return by the way which you came" (v. 7-9); he was to have nothing to do with Jeroboam. Instead he returned home a different way (v.10). 

A different, old prophet, was told of what had occurred by this unnamed man by his son and so the old prophet went after this man, confronted him, to have him come back with him, but the unnamed prophet refused citing what he had told Jeroboam, but this old prophet said an angel of the Lord spoke to him telling him to come to his house and the unnamed prophet did (verse 11-19). Then a word came from the Lord to the old prophet of the unnamed man being disobedient to the Lord in coming back with him. The man saddled him a donkey and on the way back a lion met him and killed him and this was told to the old prophet (v. 20-25). The old prophet had him men retrieve the body and he brought it back and buried it in his grave and said that when he dies he wants to be buried in the same grave - "lay my bones beside his bones (v. 26-31). 

And "Jeroboam did not return from his evil way" (verse 33). 

This is a strange story and unsure its significance. There is a word of the Lord spoken by the first prophet - and his outcry that Jeroboam had committed false worship seems reasonable. But the idea that another prophet would lead him astray and then be killed, while the other prophet remains alive seems odd.

I think the lesson here is once hearing from the Lord we must be very careful when hearing someone else speak a new word that contradicts the previous word. God can make new covenants with His people. But I think in those instances, we need to consider all of the evidence with those new words. The first prophet too quickly had his mind changed. There really was no reason for this old prophet to go after the first prophet so it is an odd story. The loss of life was the result. And it is hard for me to understand why this prophet must be killed. Disobeying God at these times often resulted in end of life. And often stating it from the Lord. That is hard to reconcile. 

Summary: A prophet is sent to speak judgment toward Jeroboam's alternative worship plans for his people. In returning home, the prophet is taken off course by another man which eventually results in his death from that disobedience. 

Promise: Be very careful about being led off course from an original word from the Lord. 

Prayer: God, you are Holy. I am not. But Lord, I am not understanding this passage and why it is in the Bible and what it means to me. I read explanations and yet I am not sure of the application. It seems that when you give me a Word that I need to be careful of anyone changing my mind. In this passage, the simple changing of one's mind led to an untimely death. I don't see those radical outcomes today. Thus, it is hard to make sense of these words. But, perhaps I need not get too hung up on this passage. It definitely should not change my mind - long-term - even if I found it contradictory. It is one passage of many in the Bible and overall your message remains clear, but if there is a word of promise or teaching that is clear, show it to me. Thank you for listening. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

I Kings 12:25-33 - Jeroboam I Breaks the Covenant

I Kings 12:25-33

And Jeroboam said in his heart, "Now the kingdom will return to the house of David. If this people go up to other sacrifices in the house of the Lord at Jerusalem, then the heart of this people will return to their lord, even to Rehoboam king of Judah; and they will kill me and return to Rehoboam king of Judah." (verse 26-27)

Message: Jeroboam I Breaks the Covenant

Time: The author of 1&2 Kings (originally 1 book) is not known. First Kings follows the history of this divided kingdom from the death of David around 971 BC through the year 853 BC. First Kings reveals Solomon’s relationship with Yahweh and introduces the prophet Elijah who pronounces judgment on the evil northern king Ahab. Like other books, it helps us to understand the history of Israel and Judah.

What the Lord is Saying: As a reminder, the resulting northern and southern kingdoms was due to the sin of Solomon, namely I think his disregard for marriage and taking wives and concubines from many different nations, comprising the integrity of Jerusalem but also his dual ways of building the temple and yet building a larger palace and wrongly treating workers to make his kingdom larger. I Kings 11:11 the Lord says, "I will surely tear the kingdom from you." What followed was his son Rehoboam then also not listening to the wise council of men from Solomon's days but instead listening to youthful wisdom with I Kings 12:11 speaking of a greater discipline to come and Rehoboam receiving a small kingdom in the south. I looked at his reign in 1 Chronicles 11 and 12 and now here look to the north and Jeroboam's reign. 

Jeroboam established his residence at Shechem, a mere 116km north of Jerusalem. Abraham had built an altar at Shechem after the Lord had promised land to his descendants (Genesis 12:6–7), and Joshua renewed the covenant there before Israel (Joshua 24:1, 25–26). He established himself in a good place, but this doesn't mean that he necessarily had good outcomes. In verse 26 and 27, Jeroboam fears that his new northern kingdom will leave him and instead return to Jerusalem to do their sacrifices and their loyalty will shift back to the house of David. But Jeroboam continues to consult himself and he sets up two worship centers of his own doing at Dan and Bethel. Jeroboam actually wasn't trying to replace God, but he thought it could be as simple as he himself setting up 2 worship centers - erecting calves which he believed could be physical representations of God. Animals were used as sacrifices at the temple and bulls especially were treated as a high value sacrifice and so by erecting a calf, a young bull, he thought that he could craft something that would work as well and be more convenient. 

Jeroboam doesn't ask God about this but instead devises his own plan. Do we do this? Do we erect our own way of doing things out of convenience? Is it possible we have replaced too quickly the sabbath day worship day? For many they would say we have. Have we too quickly gone to high octane, entertainment focused worship services where we pay professional musicians to lead us and create atmospheres that are possibly too seeker focused? In our worship services, we brand our messages often times more on self-help than God glorifying messages. As Christians, do we too quickly separate ourselves from the world to safeguard ourselves from reaching out to people in the name of staying safe? Do we think that trusting in Jesus is simply our 'get of hell free card' and we can resume life the way we like to live it? But do we often too quickly follow a rigid checklist of obedience in order to ensure somewhat that we are close to God? Do we only evangelize with people at certain times? Is Sunday the most spiritual day of the week for us? Do we invite God into all the areas of our lives? 

I think the hard point here in this passage is Jeroboam was seen as working in opposition to God and yet he might have believed something different. 

Jeroboam had been given a promise in I Kings 11:38 by God when it was said to him, "if you listen to all that I command you and walk in My ways, and do what is right in My sight by observing My statutes and My commandments, as My servant David did, then i will be with you and build you an enduring house as I built for David, and I will give Israel to you." God here in these verses is asking Jeroboam to follow him and listen to Him and walk in His ways. The word 'My' is used 5 times. But in this chapter, Jeroboam responds by not citing God when he makes decisions. The author makes a point to mention that he did not. 

The subject of this lesson is that Jeroboam I Breaks the Covenant. This is the Mosaic covenant which was a conditional covenant at the time. God had set up specific ways of worship and sacrifice and places where these need to occur - namely the temple. In these times, it was very important that people acted in the way God prescribed, not simply doing things there own ways for him in hopes that it would be good enough. No, God expected strict conformity to His ways. Yes, he forgave but He still had a standard. 

Summary: Jeroboam fears that if his people leave his area to go worship and sacrifice in Jerusalem then they will turn their allegiance to Rehoboam so he sets up alternate ways to worship and sacrifice in his area. 

Promise: We must listen carefully to God's leading. 

Prayer: Lord God, these are hard passages. It is hard to understand the conditional messages here and wonder if there is more condition expected of us today. Thank you for showing me how you accept our repentance and turning to You. Thank you for your sacrifice. Show me how I need to sacrifice for You. Give me wisdom in decisions and doing things that will glorify You. Help me to know the best way to go always. Give me direction as I speak to people about you. Keep me focused on this in life and surrendering to You. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

2 Chronicles 11:5-12:16 - Rehoboam's Reign

2 Chronicles 11:5-12:16

So King Rehoboam strengthened himself in Jerusalem, and reigned. Now Rehoboam was forty-one years old when he began to reign, and he reigned seventeen years in Jerusalem, the city which the Lord had chosen from all the tribes of Israel, to put His name there. And his mother's name was Naamah the Ammonitess. And he did evil because he did not set his heart to see the Lord. (12:13-14)

Message: Rehoboam's Reign

Time: 2 Chronicles, like 1 Chronicles has a mystery writer and was separated into 2 books in 200 BC when the Septuagint was translated. This book focuses on Judah from 971-586 BC. The chronicler focused on the blessings God bestowed when leaders were faithful to His law. It covers Solomon's ascension to the throne to Judah finally carried into exile in Babylon. 

What the Lord is Saying: Rehoboam is now enshrined as the first king of the southern territory, known as Judah, which mainly encompasses Jerusalem, the most favored city in that region. Rehoboam had rebelled against wise counsel and instead listened to the counsel of youth, but in God's divine providence this was the path God used to separate the northern and southern kingdoms. While Jeroboam gets most of the areas with the Northern Kingdom, Rehoboam does secure the most favored area of Jerusalem - an area that even now almost 3,000 years later is still a prominent place. He will also now mention the cities that he fortifies, repairs, and enlarges in order to build up a strong defense toward the Northern Kingdom. There is Bethlehem, 2 hours south of Jerusalem and Etam next to it. Tekoa is 2 hours then south of Bethlehem. Also Beth-zur, Soco, Adullam, Gath, Mareshah, Ziph - cities that could be in the south eastern part or the hill country. Adoraim (southwest), Lachish (west), and Azekah, Zorah (birthplace of Samson) and Aijalon (of the 15 mentioned here these are the furthest north), and Hebron. 

The Levites or chief priests were not welcomed with Jeroboam so instead they came to Jerusalem, under Rehoboam where they felt safe and appreciated (v. 14). And yet Jeroboam also provided other high places for the worship of Baal and goats (v. 15). [Note: I don't think it is the role of the Christian to encourage alternate forms of worship; they will most likely happen anyway, but we are not to help make them happen.] The best Israelites united themselves in Jerusalem for worship (v. 16). And so for the first 3 years of Jeroboam's reign all was well with r egards to the people's worship of God (v. 17). It appears that Rehoboam then takes 2 wives (v. 18) and this is affirmed in verse 21 stating he had 18 wives and 60 concubines. This resulted in 28 sons and 60 daughters. Thus, the sins of Solomon in taking many wives is now seen by his son Rehoboam. 

Thus, at the beginning of chapter 12 it sees that "he (Rehoboam) and all Israel with him forsook the law of the Lord." This forsaking would have consequences. In verse 2, Shishak the king of Egypt comes up against Jerusalem and "captured the fortified cities." Shemaiah the prophet tells Rehoboam from the Lord, "You have forsaken Me, so I also have forsaken you." But fortunately in response - "the princes of Israel and the king humbled themselves and said, "The Lord is righteous."" It was wrong to forsake the Lord, but after a little judgment the people remark that the Lord is righteous. They turn from their evil ways, even if it is just for a moment. But even in that moment there is a reprieve. Thus, God continues to acknowledge and do something after the repentance of His people. In verse 7 he says, "My wrath shall not be poured out" and yet "they will become his slaves."  

In verses 13-16 is a little summary. Rehoboam reigned 17 years from age 41 to 58. But "he did evil because he did not set his heart to seek the Lord." Yes, he repented at times. Yes, he did say he was sorry when evil came his direction, but "his heart did not seek the Lord." His repentance was momentary, but his life was not lives toward the Lord. It was a momentary life or turning to God. God wants a life consistently lived for Him. God wants our entire life and heart. We are to "Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength" (Deuteronomy 6:5). 

Summary: Rehoboam's reign is marked by taking on many wives and concubines and forsaking the Lord which results in a king of Egypt taking over the land, but not destroying it because the people repent. 

Promise: From Tabletalk, "When we hear from the Word of God about our sin, the proper response is repentance."

Prayer: O Lord My God, you are the great I AM. I want to be that person that is said to seek You all of the days of my life and make you known. Help me God to be that person. I miss the mark I know. I question. My faith can be wishy-washy, but I pray that my life looks like one that seeks you. Thank you for the clarity of understanding You have provided me and the good time to read and study Your word. Lord, give me wisdom and strength. Give me the words to say. Give me focus on You. Defeat enemies and be glorified. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

1 Kings 12:1-24 - A Young King's Folly

I Kings 12:1-24

And he spoke to them according to the advice of the young men, saying, "My father made your yoke heavy, but I will add to your yoke; my father disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions. (verse 14)

Message: A Young King's Folly

Time: The author of 1&2 Kings (originally 1 book) is not known. First Kings follows the history of this divided kingdom from the death of David around 971 BC through the year 853 BC. First Kings reveals Solomon’s relationship with Yahweh and introduces the prophet Elijah who pronounces judgment on the evil northern king Ahab. Like other books, it helps us to understand the history of Israel and Judah.

What the Lord is Saying: Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and grandson of David, is now the central figure. Rehoboam heads to Shechem to be crowned king through a ceremonial process with representatives from the 12 tribes. In the last chapter it was prophesied that Jeroboam would be in charge of the ten tribes of the northern part of Israel. He was a former servant of Solomon and placed in charge of parts of the labor of the temple and changes. After Solomon's death he had fled to Egypt (verse 2) and now hears of Rehoboam's assent to king. He returns to speak to Rehoboam (verse 3). 

Jeroboam mentions to Rehoboam in verse 4, "Your father made our yoke hard." Solomon's reign was marked with prosperity but in building a lot he also placed a lot of pressure on his labor force, to build a temple but then also build his much larger palace. Prosperity takes hard work. It is not simply hand-outs. It is hard work building something. So Jeroboam petitions Rehoboam to "lighten the hard service of your father...and we will serve you." The problem is not hard work but instead forced labor. This is the problem that remains, forcing people to work. The evils of society speak of this often - forcing people to be sex slaves is one of the biggest problems today. Rehoboam responds that he needs time to deliberate and think of this. Sometimes we need time to consider a path forward. 

In verse 6, Rehoboam counsels elders. This is good - to go to those who came before him, to the elders. He goes to those that previously counseled Solomon. In life, hopefully we seek aid from the wisdom of others. Hopefully our leaders are being counseled by others. The elders recommendation to Rehoboam hold true today in verse 7, "Be a servant to this people...serve them...speak good words to them." 

But instead Rehoboam "forsook the counsel of the elders" and instead "consulted with the young men" instead that had been serving him and they told him to say to Jeroboam in verse 11, "I will add to your yoke; my father disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions." Basically, you thought you had it hard, but I will show who is really tough. In verse 12, the 3 days is up from verse 5 and Rehoboam tells Jeroboam what the young men told him. 

And yet, this was God's sovereign will - judgment on Solomon's idolatry, splitting the kingdom with Jeroboam who receives the bulk of the split while Rehoboam receives the least. Only a small portion of people would remain loyal to David (Judah) while the bulk would go in the direction of Jeroboam. The people, Israel, responded by stoning to death (verse 18) the man in Adoram who had overseen the force labor under Solomon's reign. The people made Jeroboam king over all Israel (v. 20) and the ten tribes. Rehoboam and the people of Judah wanted to fight Israel, but God said no (v. 24). The division of the kingdom fulfilled God’s judgment on Solomon’s unfaithfulness and His prior word concerning Jeroboam. Rehoboam’s loss of the northern tribes was not to be reversed by force.

Matthew Henry comments, “God serves his own wise and righteous purposes by the imprudence's (lack of good judgment) and iniquities of men.” This passage doesn't go in the direction you would think with Rehoboam listening to wise counsel, but instead listens to foolish counsel but in so doing God's sovereign ways are fulfilled. God works things out in the way he had mentioned by fulfilling wrath toward Solomon and Israel, splitting the kingdoms and yet not allowing a civil war between the people. 

Summary: Jeroboam petitions Rehoboam for mercy and does not receive it and in return receives the 10 tribes of Israel while Rehoboam gets Judah and a division results. 

Promise: God uses our decisions to achieve His purposes. 

Prayer: Lord, I think that my default thinking is that my decisions achieve purposes that will work out in my favor, but this passage shows that decisions made by people, selfish decisions, can also work out in your favor and result in judgment sometimes. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.