Chapter 14: Reflection

Guest post by Dave Allen, a "The Story" reader! 

Most of us have heard the saying about some wealthy parent’s child being born with the silver spoon in his mouth, but in Solomon’s son’s case, Rehoboam was born with a GOLDEN spoon, because silver was considered of little or no value in Solomon’s day (p 190). 

Nevertheless, the narrative surrounding Rehoboam’s reign before he had even risen to the throne (cf. 1 Kings 11: 19-13) was not so golden. 

Within the first few days of his kingship, ten tribes ceded from his rule and formed the Northern Kingdom of Israel, leaving Rehoboam to preside over what was left of a great nation – the southern Kingdom of Judah.

On the other hand, Jeroboam (whom God had the prophet Ahijah anoint as king over the larger Northern Kingdom of Israel) brought about disaster upon himself. 

All of his woes were of his own making, to the extent that he will be forever known as “the man who caused all of Israel to sin.” (2 Kings 10: 29). 

Sadly, it didn’t have to be.  God had promised to make him “king over Israel, to reign according to all that he desired, if he would obey God’s commands and walk in his ways – “I will be with thee, and build for you a sure house, as I did for David, and will give Israel to you” (1 Kings 11:38).

In one narrative we have a son, born of wealth and prestige, who seems to have failed as a direct result of the failures of his father (or rather the judgment) leveled because of his father’s sins. 

In the other, a non-nobility, having been given the opportunity of a lifetime, failing of his own doings. 

In both instances disobedience of God’s commands has led to destruction.

A CLOSING THOUGHT

How many blessings and opportunities have we missed through our own disobedience?

Does it seem fair to you that the sins of the father can be visited upon the sons? Or do you disagree that Rehoboam’s reign failed as a result of the judgment for Solomon’s sins?

Chapter 14: Questions

A Kingdom Torn in Two 

As always, feel free to answer questions in the comments (especially the "Digging Deeper" ones) and share any thoughts you might have about the "Personal Action." Or, let us know if YOU have a question!


CHECKING YOUR COMPREHENSION
1. What caused the kingdom of Israel to be divided? 

2. How did Rehoboam AND Jeroboam both make mistakes?

3. After reading this chapter, what does it say about God and what is important to Him?

3. In what ways has God been kind to you even when you didn't deserve it?

DIGGING DEEPER
1. "A house divided against itself cannot stand." The church has had its share of "civil wars" and divisions through the years. How can you help to contribute peace in your local church?

2. When Israel was devoted to God, they were strong and prospered; when they strayed in their devotion, their loyalty become weakened. How do you/have you seen this happen in your own life?

PERSONAL ACTION
This week, ponder one of these three questions: (Or all of them, if you want!)

1. Am I a peacemaker or a source of conflict in my relationships? How can I seek to build bridges and heal broken relationships in my life?

2. When I am placed in situations where I am called to be an influencer and leader, am I a humble servant?

3. Are there any idols in my life? even little ones? If so, what can I do to cast them out?

This is a safe place to be able to share questions and fears and doubts. You can post using your name or not, whichever you prefer. And if you choose to respond to someone's comment, please be gentle with your words.