Note: This sermon is by Daniel Kirkendall, our Associate Minister.
Call on God for Wisdom
1 Kings 12:1-29
In this text we see the division of the kingdom of Israel following the death of Solomon, and the events that led to the division. Jeroboam became the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel after the ten tribes rebelled against Rehoboam, the son and heir of Solomon. Although both kings were chosen by God to rule over their respective kingdoms, they had different leadership styles and different levels of wisdom.
Jeroboam, despite being chosen by God to become a king, did not trust in God's protection and instead relied on his own strength to consolidate his power and build his kingdom. He erected golden calves in two separate locations and told the people that they did not need to go to Jerusalem to worship. Jeroboam's lack of faith and his willingness to lead people to worship false gods ultimately led to his downfall and the decline of the northern kingdom of Israel.
Rehoboam, on the other hand, was not a perfect king. At his coronation, the people asked him to reduce their taxes and labor requirements. Before his ruling on the request, he sought counsel from 2 sets of advisers, and heeded the counsel of his young friends instead of the wise elders. This led to a revolt by Jeroboam and 10 tribes (excluding Judah and Benjamin). 2 Chronicles 12:12 tells us that Rehoboam ultimately turned to the Lord in humility, and was able to, in part, salvage his legacy as the first king of Judah.
The story of Jeroboam and Rehoboam teaches us the importance of wisdom, and we can draw many applicable conclusions from their stories.
1. The importance of wise leadership.
Both Jeroboam and Rehoboam were chosen by God to be kings, but their leadership styles were very different. Jeroboam relied on his own strength and led the people astray by promoting false worship, while Rehoboam rejected wise counsel, but later in his life accepted wisdom and was able to maintain the stability of his kingdom.
2. The danger of pride and arrogance.
Jeroboam's downfall can be attributed in part to his arrogance and his lack of faith in God's protection. Rehoboam's foolish decision to increase the burden of his people resulted in the split of the kingdom.
3. The consequences of disobedience.
Jeroboam's disobedience to God ultimately led to the decline of his kingdom, while Rehoboam's eventual obedience and wisdom helped his kingdom to prosper. (2 Chronicles 12)
4. The importance of faith in God.
Jeroboam's lack of faith in God and his willingness to promote false worship led to his downfall. In contrast, Rehoboam did not accept wise, Godly counsel that led to a revolt, yet God’s sovereignty is not thwarted due to man’s failure.
Overall, the story of Jeroboam and Rehoboam teaches us that wise leadership, humility, obedience, and faith in God are essential qualities for God’s people to possess.
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How might the stories of Jeroboam and Rehoboam be relevant to us today? How can we apply the lessons and insights we have gained to our own lives and leadership roles?
How might we pray in light of the stories of Jeroboam and Rehoboam? What kinds of prayers might we offer for ourselves and for those in leadership positions in our own communities and nations?
Proverbs 1:7 states, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." What does this mean, and how does our reverence for God contribute to our wisdom?
Can you think of any biblical examples of individuals who displayed great wisdom? What can we learn from their stories?
Share personal experiences where wisdom played a crucial role in a decision or circumstance. What did you learn from those situations?
How does the concept of God's sovereignty impact the way we view and participate in the church?
Can you share examples from your life when you have received bad advice and good advice about a certain situation? What made the advice good or bad?
In the New Testament, Jesus is seen as the embodiment of wisdom. What teachings or actions of Jesus reflect this wisdom, and how can we follow His example?
How do you think wisdom relates to humility? How can we cultivate a humble heart that is open to receiving wisdom from God and others?
As a group, discuss practical ways you can support each other in growing in wisdom and applying it to your lives.
