1 Kings 14:13 And all Israel shall mourn for him, and bury him: for he only of Jeroboam shall come to the grave… Abijah was the good son of a bad father. His name meant "Jehovah is his father." This name had probably been given before Jeroboam broke away from the service of Jehovah. The name and the character of the youth agreed. Abijah was possessed of real piety. To have religion is to possess the best thing possible. It is called a "good thing." Similar descriptions of religion are given in other parts of Scripture. "That good thing which was committed to thee, keep." Again, "Being confident that He who hath begun a good work in you will carry it on till the day of Christ." "It is a good thing that the heart be established with grace." "Mary hath chosen that good part that shall not be taken away." Religion, is, undoubtedly, a "good thing," in that it draws man near to God, leads to good actions, gives good aims. It has a good influence on a man's companions, on the family, and on society. The possession of a real piety by Abijah brought him honour from men. He had found a deep place in the affections of the people. When he died all Israel mourned for him. Men would not have cared so much for him if he had been an indifferent, callous, wilful, cruel, passionate, self-indulgent youth. God, as well as man, honoured this early piety in Abijah. Christians should be earnest in seeking to lead others to early decision for Christ, remembering that youth is the most suitable because the most impressionable time. Religion is the best check to the weeds of evil, and it cannot be implanted too soon in the heart. As well forbear to teach the alphabet, or figures, or principles of science, or the customs of trade until manhood is reached, as forbear to instil in youth the principles of morality and the doctrines of Christ — doctrines which are the embodiment of the highest morality. No; these are flimsy objections. They are out of harmony with the Divine will and revelation. Abijah became pious none too soon. He died early. "Briers and thorns wither not so soon as lilies and roses." Anyhow, Abijah was prepared to pass away, prepared to meet death. (F. Hastings.) Parallel Verses KJV: And all Israel shall mourn for him, and bury him: for he only of Jeroboam shall come to the grave, because in him there is found some good thing toward the LORD God of Israel in the house of Jeroboam. |
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