The Kingdom Divides

As a family, read I Kings 12 together. Afterwards, share the following family discussion.

What happened?

Rehoboam became King of Israel after his father, Solomon, died.  Jeroboam had served as a project leader for Solomon. Through the prophet Ahijah, God told Jeroboam that because of Solomon’s disobedience, He would divide the kingdom after Solomon died and make Jeroboam king over ten of the twelve tribes of Israel.  When Solomon heard this, he tried to have Jeroboam killed, so Jeroboam fled to Egypt.  When Solomon died, Jeroboam returned.

Before crowning Rehoboam king, Jeroboam and some of the leaders of Israel promised Rehoboam that they would be loyal to him if he would lighten the harsh labor demands and the heavy taxes Solomon imposed on them during a massive building campaign. Rehoboam asked them for a few days to think about their request. He went to the older men who had counseled with his father and asked for their advice. They advised him to listen to the leaders and not increase the load on the people. But Rehoboam rejected their advice and asked the opinion of the young men who had grown up with him and were now his advisors. They told him to do the opposite and increase the load on the people!  When Rehoboam announced his decision, the people rejected Rehoboam as their king. Israel revolted and split into two separate nations.  Jeroboam became king over the ten northern tribes, and Rehoboam remained king over the two southern tribes.

Why is this important to us today?

Rehoboam rejected the advice of the older, wiser men.  He gave in to the pressure of his friends, and the outcome was disastrous for both Rehoboam and the entire nation of Israel. This story illustrates something very important – the people around us have a tremendous influence on our lives. Their words, attitudes, and actions can shape our lives, either in a good way or a bad way.  We should be very careful about who we let influence us.  We should be careful to choose friends who will help us make wise choices and encourage us in our relationship with God, and avoid friends who will influence us in a bad way.

Spend a few minutes talking about what you just read by answering these questions together:

Why do you think Rehoboam rejected the advice of the older, wiser men and instead followed the advice of his friends? What older and wiser people has God placed in your life? How have they influenced you to make wise decisions and to please the Lord?

How can we better follow God this week?

Take turns, allowing each family member to talk about their closest friends. Who are the biggest influences on your lives?  Are they wise, according to the Bible?  Are they people who encourage you in your relationships with God? In what way?  Talk about how you can help one another find healthy friendships and avoid unhealthy ones. Close your time together by praying for your friendships.