Character Study Of Rehoboam Series

CHARACTER STUDY OF REHOBOAM – SON OF SOLOMON, CAUSED THE KINGDOM TO DIVIDE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Kings 12:15

"So the king did not listen to the people; for the turn of events was from the LORD, that He might fulfill His word, which the LORD had spoken by Ahijah the Shilonite to Jeroboam the son of Nebat."

Supporting Texts:

1 Kings 12-14, 2 Chronicles 10-12

INTRODUCTION

Rehoboam was the son of Solomon and the grandson of David. He ascended the throne of Israel after Solomon's death, inheriting a kingdom that was wealthy, powerful, and well-established. However, his lack of wisdom and harsh leadership style led to one of the most significant tragedies in Israel's history—the division of the kingdom.

Unlike his father Solomon, who sought wisdom from God at the beginning of his reign, Rehoboam made poor choices by rejecting wise counsel and listening to the advice of his young friends. His decision to increase the people's burdens led to rebellion, fulfilling the prophecy that the kingdom would be torn apart due to Solomon’s sins. This division weakened Israel politically, spiritually, and militarily, leading to continuous conflict.

Rehoboam’s life teaches valuable lessons about leadership, humility, and the consequences of rejecting divine guidance. His reign is a warning to all who hold positions of influence that pride and unwise counsel can lead to destruction.

1. REHOBOAM'S LEGITIMATE CLAIM TO THE THRONE

a) He was the rightful heir to the throne (1 Kings 11:43)

As Solomon’s firstborn son, he was the natural successor.

b) He was recognised as king by Israel (1 Kings 12:1)

The people gathered at Shechem to officially make him king.

c) He inherited a powerful and prosperous kingdom (1 Kings 4:20-21)

His father, Solomon, had expanded Israel’s influence and wealth.

d) His kingship fulfilled God’s promise to David (2 Samuel 7:12-16)

God had promised that David’s descendants would sit on the throne.

2. REHOBOAM'S REJECTION OF WISE COUNSEL

a) He sought advice but ignored the elders' wisdom (1 Kings 12:6-8)

The elders advised him to be kind and lighten the people's burdens.

b) He listened to the reckless advice of young men (1 Kings 12:10-11)

His friends urged him to be harsh and show his power.

c) He refused to serve the people but wanted to dominate them (1 Kings 12:14)

Instead of easing their load, he threatened them with greater hardship.

d) His decision led to rebellion and division (1 Kings 12:16)

The ten northern tribes rejected him and made Jeroboam king.

e) Biblical Example: King Rehoboam failed to be like Solomon, who initially sought God’s wisdom (1 Kings 3:9-12)

3. THE DIVISION OF ISRAEL UNDER REHOBOAM

a) Ten tribes rejected Rehoboam and followed Jeroboam (1 Kings 12:19-20)

The kingdom was split into Israel (north) and Judah (south).

b) Only Judah and Benjamin remained loyal to Rehoboam (1 Kings 12:21)

The two southern tribes continued under the Davidic dynasty.

c) He prepared for war but was stopped by God (1 Kings 12:22-24)

The prophet Shemaiah warned him not to fight his brothers.

d) The division weakened Israel and led to idolatry (1 Kings 12:26-30)

Jeroboam set up golden calves, leading Israel into sin.

e) Biblical Example: The Tower of Babel also teaches that division brings weakness (Genesis 11:6-8)

4. REHOBOAM’S FAILURE TO LEAD SPIRITUALLY

a) He allowed Judah to turn to idolatry (1 Kings 14:22-24)

The people built pagan altars and practiced evil.

b) He did not remove the high places of false worship (2 Chronicles 12:1)

Unlike David, he failed to lead the people in true worship.

c) He abandoned the law of God (2 Chronicles 12:1)

His heart was not fully devoted to God.

d) Judah suffered divine punishment for their sins (1 Kings 14:25-26)

God allowed Shishak, the king of Egypt, to invade Jerusalem.

5. REHOBOAM’S REPENTANCE AND GOD’S MERCY

a) When punished, he humbled himself before God (2 Chronicles 12:6)

He admitted his sin and sought God’s mercy.

b) God reduced Judah’s punishment (2 Chronicles 12:7)

Instead of total destruction, God allowed Judah to survive.

c) He acknowledged God's authority in his later years (2 Chronicles 12:12)

Though his reign was troubled, he recognised God’s sovereignty.

d) His repentance shows God's willingness to forgive (2 Chronicles 7:14)

If people humble themselves, God will show mercy.

e) Biblical Example: King Manasseh also repented and was restored (2 Chronicles 33:12-13)

6. STRENGTHS OF REHOBOAM

Despite his failures, Rehoboam had some positive qualities that defined his leadership.

a) He rightfully inherited the throne (1 Kings 11:43)

As the son of Solomon, he had the legal right to be king.

b) He initially sought advice before making a decision (1 Kings 12:6)

He consulted the elders before responding to the people’s request.

c) He showed courage in ruling Judah despite opposition (1 Kings 12:21)