1 Kings 12:12

After three days, Jeroboam and all the people returned to Rehoboam, since the king had said, "Come back to me on the third day."

Study Bible

After three days
The phrase "after three days" signifies a period of waiting and anticipation. In the Hebrew context, the number three often symbolizes completeness or divine perfection. This waiting period allowed for reflection and decision-making, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. Historically, this was a time of political tension, as the people awaited Rehoboam's response to their request for lighter burdens.

Jeroboam and all the people
Jeroboam, a significant figure in Israel's history, was chosen by God to lead the ten tribes of Israel. His presence here indicates his leadership role and the collective desire of the people for change. The phrase "all the people" underscores the unity and collective voice of the Israelites, who were seeking relief from Solomon's heavy yoke.

returned to Rehoboam
The act of returning to Rehoboam highlights the people's respect for the king's authority, despite their grievances. Rehoboam, Solomon's son, was the legitimate heir to the throne, and the people's return signifies their hope for a favorable response. This moment is pivotal, as it sets the stage for the division of the kingdom.

as the king had said
This phrase reflects Rehoboam's initial willingness to engage with the people's concerns. It shows a semblance of order and protocol, as the king had set a specific time for this meeting. However, it also foreshadows the impending disappointment, as Rehoboam's words will soon reveal his lack of wisdom.

'Come back to me on the third day.'
Rehoboam's instruction to "come back to me on the third day" is a direct command, indicating his control over the situation. The third day, again, symbolizes a complete cycle, suggesting that Rehoboam had ample time to consider his response. This phrase is crucial, as it marks the moment before a significant turning point in Israel's history—the division of the united monarchy into two separate kingdoms.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rehoboam
The son of Solomon and the king of Israel at this time. He is faced with a critical decision that will impact the unity of the nation.

2. Jeroboam
A former official under Solomon who becomes the leader of the northern tribes. He is a central figure in the division of the kingdom.

3. The People
Representing the tribes of Israel, they are seeking relief from the heavy burdens imposed by Solomon.

4. Shechem
The place where Rehoboam went to be crowned king and where this pivotal meeting takes place.

5. The Third Day
A significant time frame in biblical accounts, often associated with important events or revelations.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Wise Counsel
Rehoboam's decision to reject the advice of the elders in favor of his peers' counsel demonstrates the need for seeking wisdom from experienced and godly advisors.

Leadership and Servanthood
True leadership involves serving others and lightening their burdens, as exemplified by Christ, rather than imposing heavier loads.

The Consequences of Pride
Rehoboam's pride and desire to assert his authority led to the division of the kingdom, illustrating how pride can lead to destructive outcomes.

The Role of Patience and Timing
The three-day waiting period signifies the importance of patience and seeking God's timing in decision-making processes.

Unity and Division
The division of Israel serves as a cautionary tale about the fragility of unity and the need for leaders to prioritize the well-being of their people.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Rehoboam's decision-making process about the importance of seeking wise counsel in our own lives?

2. How does the response of Rehoboam contrast with the leadership style of Jesus as described in the New Testament?

3. In what ways can pride impact our relationships and decision-making, and how can we guard against it?

4. How does the concept of waiting on the "third day" apply to our spiritual lives and the importance of God's timing?

5. What steps can we take to promote unity within our communities and avoid the pitfalls of division as seen in the account of Rehoboam and Jeroboam?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 5:1-5
The Israelites' request for relief from burdens under Pharaoh parallels their request to Rehoboam, highlighting a recurring theme of seeking freedom from oppression.

2 Chronicles 10
This chapter provides a parallel account of the events in 1 Kings 12, offering additional insights into Rehoboam's decision-making process.

Matthew 11:28-30
Jesus' invitation to find rest in Him contrasts with Rehoboam's harsh response, emphasizing the importance of servant leadership.