2 Chronicles 10:1

Then Rehoboam went to Shechem, for all Israel had gone there to make him king.

Study Bible

Then Rehoboam
Rehoboam, whose name means "he enlarges the people," was the son of Solomon and grandson of David. His ascension to the throne marks a pivotal moment in Israel's history. The name Rehoboam itself is significant, as it reflects the hope and expectation that he would continue the legacy of his father and grandfather. However, his reign would soon be marked by division and strife, highlighting the importance of wise and godly leadership. This moment serves as a reminder of the weight of responsibility that comes with leadership, especially in a covenant community.

went to Shechem
Shechem holds a rich historical and spiritual significance in Israel's history. It was the site where God first promised the land to Abraham (Genesis 12:6-7) and where Joshua renewed the covenant with the Israelites (Joshua 24:1-25). By going to Shechem, Rehoboam was stepping into a place laden with covenantal history, a place where the people of Israel had previously committed themselves to the Lord. This setting underscores the gravity of the events about to unfold and the spiritual heritage that Rehoboam was inheriting. It serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring the past and the covenants made with God.

for all Israel had gone there
The phrase "all Israel" indicates the unity and collective identity of the twelve tribes at this moment. They gathered with the intention of affirming Rehoboam as their king, reflecting a moment of national significance. This unity, however, was fragile, as underlying tensions and grievances were about to surface. The gathering of "all Israel" at Shechem is a poignant reminder of the potential for unity within God's people, but also the ease with which division can occur when leadership fails to heed wise counsel and the needs of the people.

to make him king
The act of making Rehoboam king was not merely a political formality but a deeply spiritual and communal act. In ancient Israel, kingship was seen as a divine appointment, with the king serving as God's representative on earth. The people's role in affirming Rehoboam as king highlights the covenant relationship between God, the king, and the people. This moment was an opportunity for Rehoboam to seek God's guidance and wisdom, as Solomon had done. It serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's will in leadership and the consequences of neglecting divine wisdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rehoboam
The son of Solomon and the grandson of David, Rehoboam is the central figure in this passage. He is about to be made king over Israel, following the death of his father, Solomon.

2. Shechem
A significant city in the history of Israel, Shechem is where Rehoboam goes to be made king. It is a place of covenant renewal and historical importance, previously associated with figures like Abraham and Jacob.

3. All Israel
This term refers to the collective tribes of Israel who gather at Shechem for the coronation of Rehoboam. It signifies the unity of the nation at this pivotal moment.

4. Event of Coronation
The gathering at Shechem is for the purpose of making Rehoboam king, a significant event that marks the transition of leadership from Solomon to his son.

Teaching Points

Leadership and Responsibility
Rehoboam's journey to Shechem underscores the weight of leadership and the responsibility that comes with it. Leaders must seek wisdom and guidance, especially when assuming new roles.

Significance of Place
The choice of Shechem as the coronation site is not arbitrary. It reminds us of the importance of historical and spiritual landmarks in our faith journey.

Unity and Division
The gathering of "all Israel" at Shechem highlights the potential for unity, but also foreshadows the division that will soon occur. Unity in the body of Christ is vital, yet fragile.

Seeking Godly Counsel
As Rehoboam faces a critical decision, the importance of seeking wise and godly counsel becomes evident. This is a reminder for us to surround ourselves with advisors who are grounded in biblical truth.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Rehoboam's approach to leadership as he prepares to become king, and how can we apply these lessons in our own leadership roles?

2. Why is Shechem a significant location for Rehoboam's coronation, and how does understanding its history enhance our comprehension of this event?

3. How does the gathering of "all Israel" at Shechem reflect the potential for unity, and what lessons can we draw about maintaining unity within the church today?

4. In what ways does the account of Rehoboam at Shechem connect with the broader account of Israel's history, and how can these connections inform our understanding of God's faithfulness?

5. How can we ensure that we are seeking and heeding godly counsel in our decision-making processes, and what biblical principles should guide us in choosing our advisors?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 12
This parallel account provides additional details about the events at Shechem and the subsequent division of the kingdom.

Genesis 12:6-7
Shechem is first mentioned in the context of God's promise to Abraham, highlighting its historical and spiritual significance.

Joshua 24:1-25
Shechem is the site of Joshua's covenant renewal with Israel, emphasizing its role as a place of decision and commitment.