1 Kings 14:25

In the fifth year of Rehoboam's reign, Shishak king of Egypt came up and attacked Jerusalem.

Study Bible

In the fifth year of King Rehoboam
This phrase marks a specific point in the timeline of Israel's history. Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, began his reign over the southern kingdom of Judah after the united monarchy split. The "fifth year" indicates a relatively short period after the division, suggesting that the consequences of Rehoboam's earlier decisions, particularly his harsh policies that led to the division, were quickly manifesting. Historically, this period was marked by instability and vulnerability, as the once-great kingdom of Israel was now divided and weakened.

Shishak king of Egypt
Shishak, also known as Sheshonq I, was the founder of the 22nd Dynasty of Egypt. His reign is well-documented both in Egyptian records and the Bible. Archaeological evidence, such as the Bubastite Portal at Karnak, corroborates his campaign into Israel and Judah. Shishak's invasion is significant as it represents a shift in regional power dynamics, with Egypt reasserting its influence over the Levant. This event also serves as a divine judgment against Rehoboam and Judah for their unfaithfulness, as they had turned away from the covenantal laws established by God.

came up and attacked Jerusalem
The phrase "came up" is indicative of the geographical ascent to Jerusalem, which is situated on a high plateau. This ascent is not only physical but also symbolic, as Jerusalem was the spiritual and political heart of Judah. The attack on Jerusalem by Shishak was a significant event, as it demonstrated the vulnerability of Judah under Rehoboam's leadership. Scripturally, this attack is seen as a consequence of the nation's disobedience to God. Theologically, it serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God's commandments and the repercussions of straying from His path. The historical context of this attack highlights the fragility of human power and the ultimate sovereignty of God over the affairs of nations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Rehoboam
The son of Solomon and king of Judah, whose reign was marked by division and conflict. His failure to heed wise counsel led to the split of the united kingdom of Israel.

2. Shishak, King of Egypt
The Pharaoh who invaded Judah during Rehoboam's reign. His attack is seen as a divine judgment against Judah for their unfaithfulness.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, which held the temple built by Solomon. It was the spiritual and political center of the kingdom.

4. The Fifth Year of Rehoboam's Reign
This marks a significant point in Rehoboam's rule, highlighting the consequences of his and the nation's actions.

5. Attack on Jerusalem
This event signifies a turning point and a divine warning to the people of Judah about their spiritual state.

Teaching Points

Consequences of Disobedience
Rehoboam's failure to follow God's commandments led to national calamity. Disobedience to God often results in negative consequences, both personally and collectively.

Divine Judgment and Mercy
Shishak's invasion serves as a reminder of God's judgment but also His mercy, as He allows challenges to bring His people back to Him.

Leadership and Responsibility
Leaders have a significant impact on the spiritual and moral direction of their people. Rehoboam's poor leadership choices had dire consequences for Judah.

The Importance of Spiritual Vigilance
The attack on Jerusalem underscores the need for constant spiritual vigilance and faithfulness to God to avoid falling into sin and its repercussions.

Historical Context and Spiritual Lessons
Understanding the historical context of biblical events can provide deeper spiritual insights and lessons applicable to our lives today.

Bible Study Questions

1. What were the spiritual and political conditions in Judah that led to Shishak's invasion, and how can we apply these lessons to our personal lives today?

2. How does the account of Shishak's attack on Jerusalem illustrate the principle of sowing and reaping found throughout Scripture?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our leadership, whether in family, church, or community, aligns with God's principles to avoid the pitfalls seen in Rehoboam's reign?

4. How can we remain spiritually vigilant in our daily lives to prevent the kind of spiritual decline that led to Judah's vulnerability?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced a "wake-up call" from God. How did it change your relationship with Him, and what steps did you take to realign with His will?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 12:2-9
This passage provides a parallel account of Shishak's invasion, offering more details about the circumstances and the spiritual reasons behind the attack.

Exodus 20:3-5
The commandments against idolatry and the consequences of turning away from God, which Judah violated, leading to their vulnerability to foreign powers.

Proverbs 1:29-31
These verses speak to the consequences of rejecting wisdom and the fear of the Lord, which can be seen in Rehoboam's leadership and the resulting invasion.