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1 Kings 12

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‹ Chapter 11 1 Kings — All Chapters Chapter 13 ›

1 Then Rehoboam went to Shechem, for all Israel had gone there to make him king. 2 When Jeroboam son of Nebat heard about this, he was still in Egypt where he had fled from King Solomon and had been living ever since. 3 So they sent for Jeroboam, and he and the whole assembly of Israel came to Rehoboam and said, 4 “Your father put a heavy yoke on us. But now you should lighten the burden of your father’s service and the heavy yoke he put on us, and we will serve you." 5 Rehoboam answered, “Go away for three days and then return to me.” So the people departed. 6 Then King Rehoboam consulted with the elders who had served his father Solomon during his lifetime. “How do you advise me to respond to these people?” he asked. 7 They replied, “If you will be a servant to these people and serve them this day, and if you will respond by speaking kind words to them, they will be your servants forever." 8 But Rehoboam rejected the advice of the elders; instead, he consulted the young men who had grown up with him and served him. 9 He asked them, “What message do you advise that we send back to these people who have spoken to me, saying, ‘Lighten the yoke your father put on us’?" 10 The young men who had grown up with him replied, “This is how you should answer these people who said to you, ‘Your father made our yoke heavy, but you should make it lighter.’ This is what you should tell them: ‘My little finger is thicker than my father’s waist! 11 Whereas my father burdened you with a heavy yoke, I will add to your yoke. Whereas my father scourged you with whips, I will scourge you with scorpions.’" 12 After three days, Jeroboam and all the people returned to Rehoboam, since the king had said, “Come back to me on the third day." 13 And the king answered the people harshly. He rejected the advice of the elders 14 and spoke to them as the young men had advised, saying, “Whereas my father made your yoke heavy, I will add to your yoke. Whereas my father scourged you with whips, I will scourge you with scorpions." 15 So the king did not listen to the people, and indeed this turn of events was from the LORD, to fulfill the word He had spoken to Jeroboam son of Nebat through Ahijah the Shilonite. 16 When all Israel saw that the king had refused to listen to them, they answered the king: “What portion do we have in David, and what inheritance in the son of Jesse? To your tents, O Israel! Look now to your own house, O David!” So the Israelites went home, 17 but Rehoboam still reigned over the Israelites living in the cities of Judah. 18 Then King Rehoboam sent out Adoram, who was in charge of the forced labor, but all Israel stoned him to death. And King Rehoboam mounted his chariot in haste and escaped to Jerusalem. 19 So to this day Israel has been in rebellion against the house of David. 20 When all Israel heard that Jeroboam had returned, they summoned him to the assembly and made him king over all Israel. Only the tribe of Judah followed the house of David. 21 And when Rehoboam arrived in Jerusalem, he mobilized the whole house of Judah and the tribe of Benjamin—180,000 chosen warriors—to fight against the house of Israel and restore the kingdom to Rehoboam son of Solomon. 22 But the word of God came to Shemaiah the man of God: 23 “Tell Rehoboam son of Solomon king of Judah, all the house of Judah and Benjamin, and the rest of the people 24 that this is what the LORD says: ‘You are not to go up and fight against your brothers, the Israelites. Each of you must return home, for this word is from Me.’” So they listened to the word of the LORD and turned back according to the word of the LORD. 25 Then Jeroboam built Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim and lived there. And from there he went out and built Penuel. 26 Jeroboam said in his heart, “Now the kingdom might revert to the house of David. 27 If these people go up to offer sacrifices in the house of the LORD at Jerusalem, their hearts will return to their lord, Rehoboam king of Judah; then they will kill me and return to Rehoboam king of Judah." 28 After seeking advice, the king made two golden calves and said to the people, “Going up to Jerusalem is too much for you. Here, O Israel, are your gods, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt." 29 One calf he set up in Bethel, and the other in Dan. 30 And this thing became a sin; the people walked as far as Dan to worship before one of the calves. 31 Jeroboam also built shrines on the high places and appointed from every class of people priests who were not Levites. 32 And Jeroboam ordained a feast on the fifteenth day of the eighth month, like the feast that was in Judah, and he offered sacrifices on the altar; he made this offering in Bethel to sacrifice to the calves he had set up, and he installed priests in Bethel for the high places he had set up. 33 On the fifteenth day of the eighth month, a month of his own choosing, Jeroboam offered sacrifices on the altar he had set up in Bethel. So he ordained a feast for the Israelites, offered sacrifices on the altar, and burned incense.

‹ Chapter 11 1 Kings — All Chapters Chapter 13 ›

Study Notes — 1 Kings 12

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Chapter Summary

The chapter begins with Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, succeeding his father as king of Israel. However, the Israelites ask Rehoboam to reduce their workload and tax burden, which Rehoboam refuses to do. As a result, the Israelites rebel against Rehoboam and appoint Jeroboam as their king. Rehoboam attempts to regain control of Israel but is warned by God not to fight against his brothers. The chapter also describes the idolatrous practices of Jeroboam and the prophetic condemnation of his actions. The division of Israel is a direct result of the sins of Solomon and the Israelites, and it serves as a warning to God's people about the dangers of idolatry and disobedience. Key verses include 1 Kings 12:1-5, 1 Kings 12:15, and 1 Kings 12:25-33.

Context for the Chapter

This chapter is part of the larger narrative of 1 Kings, which describes the history of Israel from the death of David to the division of the kingdom. The chapter is also part of the broader biblical narrative, which describes God's plan to redeem and restore His people. The division of Israel serves as a warning to God's people about the dangers of disobedience and the importance of seeking God's wisdom. The chapter also points forward to the coming of Christ, who would ultimately restore and redeem God's people.

Heart Application

As we reflect on this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of seeking God's wisdom and obeying His commands. We are also reminded of the dangers of idolatry and disobedience, and the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty over all things. May we seek to apply these lessons to our own lives, trusting in God's wisdom and sovereignty, and seeking to obey His commands.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

This chapter tells the story of how Israel was divided into two kingdoms, with Rehoboam ruling over Judah and Jeroboam ruling over Israel. The division was a result of the sins of Solomon and the Israelites, and it serves as a warning to God's people about the dangers of disobedience and the importance of seeking God's wisdom. As we reflect on this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and obeying His commands, as seen in 1 Kings 12:15.

Voices from the Church

“The division of Israel is a solemn warning to us all, to beware of the sins that lead to division and separation from God.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The sovereignty of God is a comfort to us, reminding us that even in the midst of sin and rebellion, God is still in control and can use all things to accomplish His own purposes.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

  1. The Division of Israel (1 Kings 12:1-5) — The chapter begins with Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, succeeding his father as king of Israel. However, the Israelites ask Rehoboam to reduce their workload and tax burden, which Rehoboam refuses to do.
  2. The Rebellion Against Rehoboam (1 Kings 12:6-14) — The Israelites rebel against Rehoboam and appoint Jeroboam as their king. Rehoboam attempts to regain control of Israel but is warned by God not to fight against his brothers.
  3. The Idolatrous Practices of Jeroboam (1 Kings 12:25-33) — The chapter describes the idolatrous practices of Jeroboam and the prophetic condemnation of his actions. Jeroboam sets up golden calves in Bethel and Dan, and he appoints priests who are not from the tribe of Levi.
  4. The Condemnation of Jeroboam's Actions (1 Kings 12:31-33) — The chapter condemns the idolatrous practices of Jeroboam and the Israelites, serving as a warning to God's people about the dangers of idolatry and disobedience.
  5. The Sovereignty of God (1 Kings 12:15) — The chapter reminds us that God is sovereign over all things, including our sin and rebellion, and that He can use even these things to accomplish His own purposes.

Core Doctrines

The Sovereignty of God
This chapter teaches us about the sovereignty of God, reminding us that He is in control of all things, including our sin and rebellion.
The Importance of Obedience
The chapter highlights the importance of obeying God's commands, serving as a warning to God's people about the dangers of disobedience.
The Dangers of Idolatry
The chapter condemns the idolatrous practices of Jeroboam and the Israelites, serving as a warning to God's people about the dangers of idolatry and disobedience.
The Consequences of Sin
The chapter describes the consequences of sin, serving as a warning to God's people about the dangers of disobedience and the importance of seeking God's wisdom.

Lessons from 1 Kings 12

  1. The Importance of Seeking God's Wisdom — The chapter teaches us about the importance of seeking God's wisdom and obeying His commands, serving as a warning to God's people about the dangers of disobedience.
  2. The Dangers of Idolatry — The chapter condemns the idolatrous practices of Jeroboam and the Israelites, serving as a warning to God's people about the dangers of idolatry and disobedience.
  3. The Sovereignty of God — The chapter reminds us that God is sovereign over all things, including our sin and rebellion, and that He can use even these things to accomplish His own purposes.
  4. The Consequences of Sin — The chapter describes the consequences of sin, serving as a warning to God's people about the dangers of disobedience and the importance of seeking God's wisdom.
  5. The Importance of Trusting in God — The chapter teaches us about the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty over all things, including our sin and rebellion.

Themes from 1 Kings 12

  1. Division and Consequences — The chapter describes the division of Israel into two kingdoms, highlighting the consequences of sin and the importance of seeking God's wisdom.
  2. Idolatry and Disobedience — The chapter condemns the idolatrous practices of Jeroboam and the Israelites, serving as a warning to God's people about the dangers of idolatry and disobedience.
  3. Sovereignty and Wisdom — The chapter reminds us that God is sovereign over all things, including our sin and rebellion, and that He can use even these things to accomplish His own purposes.
  4. Consequences and Restoration — The chapter describes the consequences of sin, serving as a warning to God's people about the dangers of disobedience and the importance of seeking God's wisdom.
  5. Trust and Obedience — The chapter teaches us about the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty over all things, including our sin and rebellion, and obeying His commands.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What are some ways in which we can seek God's wisdom and obey His commands in our own lives?
  2. How does the division of Israel serve as a warning to us about the dangers of disobedience and the importance of seeking God's wisdom?
  3. What are some ways in which we can trust in God's sovereignty over all things, including our sin and rebellion?
  4. How does the chapter's condemnation of idolatry serve as a warning to us about the dangers of idolatry and disobedience?
  5. What are some ways in which we can apply the lessons of this chapter to our own lives, trusting in God's wisdom and sovereignty?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. The Division of Israel (1 Kings 12:1-5)

12:1 Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, succeeds his father as king of Israel.
12:2 The Israelites ask Rehoboam to reduce their workload and tax burden, which Rehoboam refuses to do.

2. The Rebellion Against Rehoboam (1 Kings 12:6-14)

12:6 The Israelites rebel against Rehoboam and appoint Jeroboam as their king.
12:7 Rehoboam attempts to regain control of Israel but is warned by God not to fight against his brothers.

3. The Idolatrous Practices of Jeroboam (1 Kings 12:25-33)

12:25 Jeroboam sets up golden calves in Bethel and Dan, and he appoints priests who are not from the tribe of Levi.
12:26 The Israelites begin to worship the golden calves, and they sacrifice to them.

4. The Condemnation of Jeroboam's Actions (1 Kings 12:31-33)

12:31 The chapter condemns the idolatrous practices of Jeroboam and the Israelites, serving as a warning to God's people about the dangers of idolatry and disobedience.
12:32 The Israelites continue to worship the golden calves, and they sacrifice to them on the high places.

5. The Sovereignty of God (1 Kings 12:15)

12:15 The chapter reminds us that God is sovereign over all things, including our sin and rebellion, and that He can use even these things to accomplish His own purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the main reason for the division of Israel?

The main reason for the division of Israel was the refusal of Rehoboam to reduce the workload and tax burden of the Israelites, as seen in 1 Kings 12:1-5. This led to the rebellion of the Israelites and the appointment of Jeroboam as their king.

What were the consequences of the division of Israel?

The consequences of the division of Israel were the loss of unity and the establishment of idolatrous practices, as seen in 1 Kings 12:25-33. The division also led to the prophetic condemnation of Jeroboam's actions and the ultimate downfall of the kingdom of Israel.

How does the chapter's condemnation of idolatry serve as a warning to us?

The chapter's condemnation of idolatry serves as a warning to us about the dangers of idolatry and disobedience, reminding us to trust in God's sovereignty and obey His commands, as seen in 1 Kings 12:15.

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 1 Kings 12:1 → 1 Samuel 8:7 The division of Israel is reminiscent of the Israelites' request for a king in 1 Samuel 8:7, highlighting the dangers of disobeying God's commands.
2 1 Kings 12:15 → Proverbs 21:1 The sovereignty of God is highlighted in 1 Kings 12:15, reminding us that God can use even our sin and rebellion to accomplish His own purposes, as seen in Proverbs 21:1.
3 1 Kings 12:25 → Deuteronomy 12:5 The establishment of golden calves in Bethel and Dan is a clear violation of God's commands, as seen in Deuteronomy 12:5, highlighting the dangers of idolatry and disobedience.
4 1 Kings 12:31 → Leviticus 10:1-3 The appointment of priests who are not from the tribe of Levi is a clear violation of God's commands, as seen in Leviticus 10:1-3, highlighting the dangers of disobedience and the importance of following God's commands.
5 1 Kings 12:32 → 2 Kings 13:6 The Israelites' continued worship of the golden calves is a clear example of the dangers of idolatry and disobedience, as seen in 1 Kings 12:32.
6 1 Kings 12:15 → Romans 11:25-26 The sovereignty of God is highlighted in 1 Kings 12:15, reminding us that God can use even our sin and rebellion to accomplish His own purposes, as seen in Romans 11:25-26.
7 1 Kings 12:1 → Matthew 12:25 The division of Israel is reminiscent of the division of the kingdom of God, highlighting the dangers of disobedience and the importance of following God's commands, as seen in Matthew 12:25.
8 1 Kings 12:25 → Acts 7:42-43 The establishment of golden calves in Bethel and Dan is a clear example of the dangers of idolatry and disobedience, as seen in Acts 7:42-43, highlighting the importance of following God's commands and trusting in His sovereignty.

Sermons on 1 Kings 12

SermonDescription
David Pawson Israel in the End Times by David Pawson In this sermon, the speaker discusses the signs that Jesus gave regarding his second coming. He explains that there are four main signs: famine, wars, earthquakes in the world; a g
David Guzik (1 Kings) a Great Victory, and the Aftermath of It by David Guzik In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Elijah and the prophets of Baal. He highlights the passion and commitment of the prophets of Baal, but emphasizes that their de
David Shirley Progress of Redemption #03 by David Shirley In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Solomon in the book of 1 Kings. He highlights how Solomon's disobedience to God's commands led to the decline and division of t
Joshua Daniel Rend Your Heart and Not Your Garment by Joshua Daniel In this sermon, the speaker, Joshua Daniel, discusses the importance of facing challenges and being tested in order to grow spiritually. He references the story of Rehoboam in the
Ken Baird Rehoboam by Ken Baird In this sermon, the speaker discusses the kings of Israel and how they did not serve the Lord well. The speaker emphasizes that the Word of God preserves the mistakes of others for
A.W. Pink Elijah’s Dramatic Appearance by A.W. Pink A.W. Pink discusses the dramatic appearance of Elijah during a dark period in Israel's history, marked by rampant idolatry and wicked kings. He highlights the spiritual decline ini
John A. Broadus Lessons for the Tempted by John A. Broadus The preacher delves into the meaning of 'qualified' in the Bible, emphasizing that believers are made fit and sufficient through the completed act of Jesus' crucifixion, allowing t
David Smithers The Pastor & Revival by David Smithers David Smithers preaches on the godly wisdom gained from pastors who experienced years of revival during the Great Awakenings in America. He emphasizes the need for watchfulness, pr
Thomas Brooks One Sin Never Goes Alone by Thomas Brooks Thomas Brooks emphasizes that small sins often lead to greater sins, illustrating this with biblical examples such as Cain, Ahab, Jeroboam, and Judas. He warns that yielding to min
C.I. Scofield Jeroboam's Idolatry by C.I. Scofield C.I. Scofield delves into the story of Jeroboam in 1 Kings 12:25-33, highlighting the dangers of substituting true religion with false religion and the consequences of apostasy. Je

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 1 Kings 12

In this chapter, we see the division of Israel into two kingdoms, with Rehoboam ruling over Judah and Jeroboam ruling over Israel. This division is a direct result of the sins of Solomon and the Israelites, and it serves as a warning to God's people about the dangers of disobedience and the importance of seeking God's wisdom. As Matthew Henry notes, 'the division of the kingdom was a great judgment upon Israel, and a sad presage of the calamities that were to follow.' We are reminded of the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty over all things, including our sin and rebellion, and of obeying His commands. As Henry writes, 'God's providence is always working, even in the midst of sin and rebellion, to bring about His own purposes.' May we seek to apply the lessons of this chapter to our own lives, trusting in God's wisdom and sovereignty, and seeking to obey His commands. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

The Role of Human Sin

The chapter highlights the role of human sin in the division of Israel, serving as a warning to God's people about the dangers of disobedience and the importance of seeking God's wisdom.

The Sovereignty of God

The chapter reminds us that God is sovereign over all things, including our sin and rebellion, and that He can use even these things to accomplish His own purposes.

The Consequences of Idolatry

The chapter condemns the idolatrous practices of Jeroboam and the Israelites, serving as a warning to God's people about the dangers of idolatry and disobedience.

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