2 Chronicles 10:15

So the king did not listen to the people, and indeed this turn of events was from God, in order that the LORD might fulfill the word that He had spoken through Ahijah the Shilonite to Jeroboam son of Nebat.

Study Bible

So the king did not listen to the people
This phrase highlights King Rehoboam's failure to heed the counsel of his subjects. The Hebrew root for "listen" is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which implies not just hearing but understanding and obeying. In the historical context, Rehoboam's refusal to listen reflects a critical moment of leadership failure. The people of Israel sought relief from heavy burdens, and his decision not to listen led to the division of the kingdom. This serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of wise and compassionate leadership.

for this turn of events was from God
The phrase underscores the sovereignty of God in the unfolding of historical events. The Hebrew word for "turn of events" is "סִבָּה" (sibbâ), meaning a cause or reason. This indicates that the division of the kingdom was not merely a political mishap but a divinely orchestrated event. From a conservative Christian perspective, this reaffirms the belief that God is actively involved in the affairs of nations, guiding history according to His divine purposes.

to fulfill the word that the LORD had spoken
This phrase emphasizes the faithfulness of God to His word. The Hebrew word for "fulfill" is "קָם" (qam), which means to establish or confirm. It highlights the certainty and reliability of God's promises. The reference to the word spoken by the LORD points to the prophetic nature of God's communication, reminding believers that God's promises are sure and will come to pass in His perfect timing.

to Jeroboam son of Nebat
Jeroboam is a central figure in this narrative, and his rise to power was foretold by God. The mention of his lineage, "son of Nebat," serves to identify him clearly within the historical and genealogical context of Israel. Jeroboam's role in the division of the kingdom was part of God's plan, illustrating how God can use individuals, even those who may not fully follow Him, to accomplish His purposes.

through Ahijah the Shilonite
Ahijah was a prophet from Shiloh, and his role as a messenger of God's word is crucial in this context. The title "Shilonite" connects him to Shiloh, a significant religious center in Israel's history. This highlights the continuity of God's revelation through His prophets. Ahijah's prophecy to Jeroboam, found in 1 Kings 11:29-39, foretold the division of the kingdom, demonstrating the prophetic tradition in Israel and the authority of God's word delivered through His chosen servants.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rehoboam
The son of Solomon and king of Judah, whose decision not to listen to the people's request led to the division of the kingdom.

2. Jeroboam son of Nebat
A former official of Solomon who became the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel after the division.

3. Ahijah the Shilonite
A prophet who foretold the division of the kingdom and Jeroboam's rise to power.

4. The People of Israel
The northern tribes who requested lighter burdens and ultimately rebelled against Rehoboam's harsh policies.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The sovereign God who orchestrated the events to fulfill His prophetic word.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs
Recognize that God is in control, even when human decisions seem misguided or unjust. His purposes will ultimately prevail.

The Importance of Wise Counsel
Seek and heed wise, godly advice, especially when making significant decisions. Rehoboam's failure to do so led to disastrous consequences.

Consequences of Pride and Arrogance
Pride can lead to downfall. Rehoboam's arrogance and refusal to listen to the people resulted in the division of the kingdom.

Fulfillment of God's Word
Trust in the reliability of God's promises. What He has spoken will come to pass, as seen in the fulfillment of Ahijah's prophecy.

Listening to the Needs of Others
Leaders should be attentive to the needs and concerns of those they lead. Ignoring these can lead to division and conflict.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rehoboam's decision reflect a failure to adhere to the principles outlined in Deuteronomy 17:14-20?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are seeking and following wise counsel in our own lives?

3. How does the fulfillment of Ahijah's prophecy in this passage encourage us to trust in God's promises today?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to avoid the pitfalls of pride and arrogance in our leadership roles?

5. How can Romans 8:28 provide comfort and assurance when we face challenging or confusing situations in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 11:29-31
This passage describes Ahijah's prophecy to Jeroboam, foretelling the division of the kingdom, which is fulfilled in 2 Chronicles 10:15.

Deuteronomy 17:14-20
Provides guidelines for kingship in Israel, emphasizing the importance of humility and adherence to God's law, which Rehoboam failed to follow.

Proverbs 15:22
Highlights the value of wise counsel, contrasting with Rehoboam's choice to ignore the advice of the elders.

Romans 8:28
Illustrates how God works through all circumstances to fulfill His purposes, similar to how He used Rehoboam's decision to fulfill His word.