1 Kings 12:28

After seeking advice, the king made two golden calves and said to the people, "Going up to Jerusalem is too much for you. Here, O Israel, are your gods, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt."

Study Bible

After seeking advice
This phrase indicates that King Jeroboam did not act impulsively but sought counsel before making his decision. The Hebrew root for "seeking advice" is "ya'ats," which implies deliberation and consultation. Historically, this reflects the common practice of ancient Near Eastern kings who often relied on advisors. However, the advice Jeroboam received led to idolatry, highlighting the importance of seeking godly counsel, as emphasized in Proverbs 11:14, "Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety."

the king made
Jeroboam, as king, had the authority to shape the religious practices of his people. The Hebrew word "asah" means "to make" or "to do," indicating deliberate action. This decision marks a pivotal moment in Israel's history, as it led to the division and spiritual decline of the northern kingdom. It serves as a cautionary tale about the misuse of power and the responsibility of leaders to uphold God's commandments.

two golden calves
The creation of "two golden calves" is reminiscent of the golden calf made by Aaron in Exodus 32. The Hebrew word for "calves" is "egel," which can also mean a young bull, a common symbol of strength and fertility in ancient Near Eastern cultures. Jeroboam's choice to use golden calves as objects of worship was a direct violation of the second commandment (Exodus 20:4-5) and reflects a syncretism that blended Canaanite religious practices with Israelite tradition.

and said to the people
Jeroboam's address to the people signifies his role in leading them astray. The Hebrew verb "amar" means "to say" or "to speak," indicating that his words carried authority and influence. This highlights the power of leadership and communication in shaping the spiritual direction of a community. It serves as a reminder of the responsibility leaders have to speak truth and guide others toward righteousness.

'Going up to Jerusalem is too much for you
This statement reveals Jeroboam's political strategy to prevent the people from returning to Jerusalem, the center of true worship. The phrase "too much for you" suggests a concern for the people's convenience, but it masks a deeper motive of consolidating his own power. This reflects a common temptation to prioritize personal or political gain over spiritual integrity.

Here are your gods, O Israel
Jeroboam's declaration, "Here are your gods," is a direct affront to the monotheistic faith of Israel. The Hebrew word "elohim" can mean "gods" or "God," but in this context, it is a plural form used to denote multiple deities, which contradicts the Shema in Deuteronomy 6:4, "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one." This phrase underscores the danger of idolatry and the ease with which people can be led away from true worship.

who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.'
By attributing the deliverance from Egypt to the golden calves, Jeroboam distorts Israel's foundational narrative. The phrase "brought you up" echoes the language of the Exodus, a central event in Israel's history that demonstrated God's power and faithfulness. This distortion serves as a warning against rewriting history to serve false narratives and emphasizes the importance of remembering and honoring God's true acts of deliverance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeroboam
The first king of the northern kingdom of Israel after the division of the united monarchy. He is the central figure in this passage, making a significant decision that impacts the spiritual direction of Israel.

2. Golden Calves
Idols made by Jeroboam to prevent the people of Israel from going to Jerusalem to worship. These calves were placed in Bethel and Dan.

3. Bethel and Dan
Locations in the northern kingdom where Jeroboam set up the golden calves as alternative worship sites to Jerusalem.

4. Jerusalem
The city where the temple of the Lord was located, and where the people of Israel were supposed to go for worship.

5. Israel
The northern kingdom consisting of ten tribes that split from Judah and Benjamin after Solomon's reign.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Pragmatism in Worship
Jeroboam's decision was based on political convenience rather than obedience to God. This teaches us the importance of prioritizing God's commands over human reasoning or convenience.

The Consequences of Idolatry
Introducing idols led Israel away from true worship and had long-lasting negative effects. We must guard against modern forms of idolatry that can subtly infiltrate our lives.

Leadership Responsibility
Leaders have a profound influence on the spiritual direction of their people. This passage challenges leaders to guide others toward God, not away from Him.

The Importance of True Worship
God desires worship according to His instructions. We should strive to worship God in spirit and truth, as Jesus emphasized in John 4.

The Repetition of Sin
The Israelites' repeated return to idolatry serves as a warning about the persistent nature of sin. We must remain vigilant and repentant to avoid falling into the same traps.

Bible Study Questions

1. What motivated Jeroboam to create the golden calves, and how can we avoid making similar compromises in our faith journey?

2. How does the account of the golden calves in 1 Kings 12:28 relate to the incident in Exodus 32, and what lessons can we learn about the nature of idolatry?

3. In what ways can modern Christians be tempted to create "golden calves" in their lives, and how can we guard against this?

4. How does Jeroboam's decision to set up alternative worship sites contrast with God's instructions in Deuteronomy 12, and what does this teach us about obedience?

5. Reflect on the role of leadership in spiritual matters. How can we ensure that our influence leads others toward God rather than away from Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 32
The incident of the golden calf made by Aaron while Moses was on Mount Sinai. This event parallels Jeroboam's actions and highlights the recurring temptation of idolatry among the Israelites.

Deuteronomy 12
God's command to the Israelites to worship at the place He chooses, which was Jerusalem. Jeroboam's actions directly contradict this command.

2 Kings 17
The eventual downfall of the northern kingdom due to persistent idolatry, which began with Jeroboam's establishment of the golden calves.