2 Chronicles 11
BSB1 When Rehoboam arrived in Jerusalem, he mobilized the house of Judah and Benjamin—180,000 chosen warriors—to fight against Israel and restore the kingdom to Rehoboam. 2 But the word of the LORD came to Shemaiah the man of God: 3 “Tell Rehoboam son of Solomon king of Judah and all the Israelites in Judah and Benjamin 4 that this is what the LORD says: ‘You are not to go up and fight against your brothers. Each of you must return home, for this word is from Me.’” So they listened to the words of the LORD and turned back from going against Jeroboam. 5 Rehoboam continued to live in Jerusalem, and he built up cities for defense in Judah. 6 He built up Bethlehem, Etam, Tekoa, 7 Beth-zur, Soco, Adullam, 8 Gath, Mareshah, Ziph, 9 Adoraim, Lachish, Azekah, 10 Zorah, Aijalon, and Hebron, the fortified cities in Judah and Benjamin. 11 He strengthened their fortresses and put officers in them, with supplies of food, oil, and wine. 12 He also put shields and spears in all the cities and strengthened them greatly. So Judah and Benjamin belonged to him. 13 Moreover, the priests and Levites from all their districts throughout Israel stood with Rehoboam. 14 For the Levites left their pasturelands and their possessions and went to Judah and Jerusalem, because Jeroboam and his sons had rejected them as priests of the LORD. 15 And Jeroboam appointed his own priests for the high places and for the goat demons and calf idols he had made. 16 Those from every tribe of Israel who had set their hearts to seek the LORD their God followed the Levites to Jerusalem to sacrifice to the LORD, the God of their fathers. 17 So they strengthened the kingdom of Judah and supported Rehoboam son of Solomon for three years, because they walked for three years in the way of David and Solomon. 18 And Rehoboam married Mahalath, who was the daughter of David’s son Jerimoth and of Abihail, the daughter of Jesse’s son Eliab. 19 She bore sons to him: Jeush, Shemariah, and Zaham. 20 After her, he married Maacah daughter of Absalom, and she bore to him Abijah, Attai, Ziza, and Shelomith. 21 Rehoboam loved Maacah daughter of Absalom more than all his wives and concubines. In all, he had eighteen wives and sixty concubines, and he was the father of twenty-eight sons and sixty daughters. 22 Rehoboam appointed Abijah son of Maacah as chief prince among his brothers, intending to make him king. 23 Rehoboam also acted wisely by dispersing some of his sons throughout the districts of Judah and Benjamin, and to all the fortified cities. He gave them abundant provisions and sought many wives for them.
Study Notes — 2 Chronicles 11
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from 2 Chronicles 11
- Themes from 2 Chronicles 11
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on 2 Chronicles 11
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
2 Chronicles 11 begins with Rehoboam, Solomon's son, becoming king of Judah, but his foolish decisions lead to the division of the kingdom, with Jeroboam, one of Solomon's former officials, becoming king of Israel. Despite this, the priests and Levites remain faithful to Rehoboam, and God is gracious to him, giving him sons and a promise of security. The chapter also notes Rehoboam's military strength and his adherence to the law of God, but also his idolatry and the resulting prophetic condemnation. Key verses include 2 Chronicles 11:1-4, which describe the division of the kingdom, and 2 Chronicles 11:13-17, which highlight the faithfulness of the priests and Levites.
Context for the Chapter
2 Chronicles 11 is part of the larger narrative of the divided kingdom of Israel, which is described in 1 Kings 12 and 2 Chronicles 10-12. The chapter provides background information on the division of the kingdom and the faithfulness of the priests and Levites, which is important for understanding the subsequent history of Judah and Israel. The chapter also highlights the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty, a theme that is central to the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Heart Application
The chapter encourages readers to trust in God's sovereignty and to remain faithful to His commands, even in the face of adversity. It also highlights the importance of humility and obedience, as Rehoboam's initial foolishness and subsequent humility are key themes in the chapter.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter is about the division of the kingdom of Israel after the death of Solomon. It highlights the faithfulness of the priests and Levites and the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty. Rehoboam's initial foolishness and subsequent humility are also key themes in the chapter (2 Chronicles 11:1-4).
Voices from the Church
“The division of the kingdom is a solemn reminder of the consequences of disobedience to God's commands.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The faithfulness of the priests and Levites is a testament to the power of God's grace in the lives of His people.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Division of the Kingdom (11:1-4) — The chapter begins with the division of the kingdom, which is a result of Rehoboam's foolish decisions.
- Faithfulness of the Priests and Levites (11:13-17) — The chapter highlights the faithfulness of the priests and Levites, who remain loyal to Rehoboam and to God despite the division of the kingdom.
- Rehoboam's Military Strength (11:5-12) — The chapter notes Rehoboam's military strength and his adherence to the law of God.
- Rehoboam's Idolatry (11:14-15) — The chapter notes Rehoboam's idolatry, which is a result of his disobedience to God's commands.
- Conclusion (11:16-17) — The chapter concludes with a note on the faithfulness of the priests and Levites and the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty.
Core Doctrines
- Sovereignty of God
- The chapter highlights God's sovereignty over the division of the kingdom and His desire for His people to trust in Him.
- Faithfulness of God
- The chapter notes the faithfulness of the priests and Levites, who remain loyal to Rehoboam and to God despite the division of the kingdom.
- Importance of Obedience
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands, highlighting the consequences of disobedience.
- Humility and Repentance
- The chapter notes Rehoboam's initial foolishness and subsequent humility, highlighting the importance of humility and repentance in the face of adversity.
Lessons from 2 Chronicles 11
- Trust in God's Sovereignty — The chapter encourages us to trust in God's sovereignty, even in the face of adversity.
- Importance of Obedience — The chapter emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands, highlighting the consequences of disobedience.
- Faithfulness in the Face of Adversity — The chapter notes the faithfulness of the priests and Levites, who remain loyal to Rehoboam and to God despite the division of the kingdom.
- Humility and Repentance — The chapter notes Rehoboam's initial foolishness and subsequent humility, highlighting the importance of humility and repentance in the face of adversity.
- God's Faithfulness — The chapter highlights God's faithfulness to His people, despite their rebellion and disobedience.
Themes from 2 Chronicles 11
- Division and Faithfulness — The chapter highlights the division of the kingdom and the faithfulness of the priests and Levites.
- Sovereignty of God — The chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty over the division of the kingdom and His desire for His people to trust in Him.
- Importance of Obedience — The chapter emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands, highlighting the consequences of disobedience.
- Humility and Repentance — The chapter notes Rehoboam's initial foolishness and subsequent humility, highlighting the importance of humility and repentance in the face of adversity.
- God's Faithfulness — The chapter highlights God's faithfulness to His people, despite their rebellion and disobedience.
Questions for Meditation
- What are the consequences of disobedience to God's commands, as seen in the division of the kingdom?
- How does the faithfulness of the priests and Levites serve as a model for our own faithfulness to God?
- What is the significance of Rehoboam's idolatry, and how does it relate to our own struggles with sin?
- How does the chapter encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty, even in the face of adversity?
- What are the implications of the chapter's emphasis on humility and repentance for our own lives?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Division of the Kingdom (11:1-4)
| 11:1 | Rehoboam, Solomon's son, becomes king of Judah, but his foolish decisions lead to the division of the kingdom. |
| 11:2 | God speaks to Rehoboam, telling him not to fight against Jeroboam, as the division of the kingdom is from Him. |
| 11:3 | Rehoboam and the people of Judah obey God's command, and the kingdom is divided. |
| 11:4 | God speaks to Rehoboam, telling him to trust in His sovereignty and to remain faithful to His commands. |
2. Faithfulness of the Priests and Levites (11:13-17)
| 11:13 | The priests and Levites remain faithful to Rehoboam and to God, despite the division of the kingdom. |
| 11:14 | Many from Israel come to Judah, as they desire to worship God and to remain faithful to His commands. |
| 11:15 | Rehoboam appoints priests and Levites to serve in the kingdom of Judah. |
| 11:16 | The people of Judah and the priests and Levites remain faithful to God, and the kingdom is strengthened. |
| 11:17 | Rehoboam's faithfulness to God is rewarded, and the kingdom of Judah is established. |
3. Rehoboam's Military Strength (11:5-12)
| 11:5 | Rehoboam builds strong cities in Judah, and the kingdom is strengthened. |
| 11:6 | Rehoboam appoints commanders and officers to lead the army of Judah. |
| 11:7 | The people of Judah are encouraged to remain faithful to God, and the kingdom is blessed. |
| 11:8 | Rehoboam's military strength is increased, and the kingdom of Judah is secured. |
| 11:9 | The priests and Levites are faithful to God, and the kingdom is blessed. |
| 11:10 | Rehoboam's faithfulness to God is rewarded, and the kingdom of Judah is established. |
| 11:11 | The people of Judah remain faithful to God, and the kingdom is strengthened. |
| 11:12 | Rehoboam's military strength is increased, and the kingdom of Judah is secured. |
4. Rehoboam's Idolatry (11:14-15)
| 11:14 | Rehoboam's idolatry is noted, as he builds high places and sets up idols in the kingdom of Judah. |
| 11:15 | The people of Judah are encouraged to remain faithful to God, despite Rehoboam's idolatry. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the division of the kingdom in 2 Chronicles 11?
The division of the kingdom is a result of Rehoboam's foolish decisions and the people's rebellion against God. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience to God's commands (2 Chronicles 11:1-4).
How does the faithfulness of the priests and Levites serve as a model for our own faithfulness to God?
The faithfulness of the priests and Levites is a testament to the power of God's grace in the lives of His people. It encourages us to remain faithful to God, even in the face of adversity (2 Chronicles 11:13-17).
What is the significance of Rehoboam's idolatry in 2 Chronicles 11?
Rehoboam's idolatry is a result of his disobedience to God's commands. It serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's commands and the consequences of disobedience (2 Chronicles 11:14-15).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 Chronicles 11:1 → 1 Kings 12:1 | The division of the kingdom is also described in 1 Kings 12:1, which provides additional background information on the event. |
| 2 | 2 Chronicles 11:4 → Proverbs 21:1 | The concept of trusting in God's sovereignty is also found in Proverbs 21:1, which encourages us to trust in God's plans rather than our own. |
| 3 | 2 Chronicles 11:13 → Numbers 3:6-10 | The faithfulness of the priests and Levites is also found in Numbers 3:6-10, which describes their role in serving God and the people of Israel. |
| 4 | 2 Chronicles 11:14 → Deuteronomy 12:2-3 | The concept of idolatry is also found in Deuteronomy 12:2-3, which warns against the dangers of idolatry and encourages obedience to God's commands. |
| 5 | 2 Chronicles 11:15 → Isaiah 57:3-5 | The consequences of idolatry are also found in Isaiah 57:3-5, which warns against the dangers of idolatry and encourages repentance and faithfulness to God. |
| 6 | 2 Chronicles 11:16 → John 10:27-30 | The concept of faithfulness to God is also found in John 10:27-30, which encourages us to remain faithful to God and to trust in His sovereignty. |
| 7 | 2 Chronicles 11:17 → Hebrews 10:35-36 | The concept of remaining faithful to God is also found in Hebrews 10:35-36, which encourages us to remain faithful to God and to trust in His sovereignty. |
| 8 | 2 Chronicles 11:1-4 → Matthew 12:25 | The division of the kingdom is also a reminder of the importance of unity and faithfulness to God, as found in Matthew 12:25. |
| 9 | 2 Chronicles 11:13-17 → Ephesians 4:1-3 | The faithfulness of the priests and Levites is also a reminder of the importance of unity and faithfulness to God, as found in Ephesians 4:1-3. |
| 10 | 2 Chronicles 11:14-15 → 1 Corinthians 10:14 | The consequences of idolatry are also a reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God, as found in 1 Corinthians 10:14. |
Sermons on 2 Chronicles 11
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
He Did Not Set His Heart by Russell Kelfer | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, and his reign as king. The sermon emphasizes the importance of humbling oneself before God and th |
|
Progress of Redemption #04 by David Shirley | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of the word of God and how it can change people's lives. The sermon takes place in Judea, a Persian province, around 430 BC. T |
|
Such as Set Their Hearts to Seek the Lord God by F.B. Meyer | F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of setting our hearts to seek the Lord God, as demonstrated by the tribes of Israel who, despite territorial divisions and opposition from thei |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 2 Chronicles 11
Matthew Henry's commentary on 2 Chronicles 11 highlights the division of the kingdom and the faithfulness of the priests and Levites. He notes that the division of the kingdom is a result of Rehoboam's foolish decisions and the people's rebellion against God. He also emphasizes the importance of faithfulness to God, as seen in the example of the priests and Levites. Henry encourages readers to trust in God's sovereignty and to remain faithful to His commands, even in the face of adversity. He notes that the chapter serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience to God's commands and the importance of humility and repentance. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
Pattern of Disobedience
The chapter notes the pattern of disobedience that leads to the division of the kingdom, highlighting the importance of faithfulness to God's commands.
Faithfulness of the Priests and Levites
The chapter highlights the faithfulness of the priests and Levites, who remain loyal to Rehoboam and to God despite the division of the kingdom.
God's Sovereignty
The chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty over the division of the kingdom, highlighting His desire for His people to trust in Him rather than in their own strength.