2 Chronicles 11:4

that this is what the LORD says: 'You are not to go up and fight against your brothers. Each of you must return home, for this word is from Me.'" So they listened to the words of the LORD and turned back from going against Jeroboam.

Study Bible

This is what the LORD says
This phrase introduces a divine command or message, emphasizing the authority and sovereignty of God. In Hebrew, "LORD" is "YHWH," the sacred name of God, which underscores His eternal and unchanging nature. This introduction is a reminder that the words following are not mere human counsel but a direct communication from God Himself, demanding reverence and obedience.

You are not to march up and fight against your brothers
The directive "not to march up and fight" is a clear prohibition against engaging in civil war. The Hebrew root for "march up" suggests a military campaign, indicating that the people were prepared for battle. The term "brothers" highlights the familial relationship between the tribes of Israel and Judah, reminding them of their shared heritage and covenant under God. This command underscores the importance of unity and peace among God's people, reflecting the biblical principle that believers are called to live in harmony.

Each of you must return home
This instruction to "return home" signifies a call to abandon the conflict and resume normal life. The Hebrew concept of "home" is not just a physical dwelling but a place of peace and rest. By commanding them to return, God is redirecting their focus from division to domestic stability and personal responsibility. It is a call to trust in God's plan and timing rather than relying on human strength and conflict.

for this is My doing
The phrase "this is My doing" reveals God's sovereign control over the events unfolding. It reassures the people that the division of the kingdom is part of God's divine plan, even if it is beyond human understanding. This acknowledgment of God's hand in the situation encourages trust in His wisdom and purposes, reminding believers that God's ways are higher than our ways.

So they listened to the words of the LORD and turned back from going against Jeroboam
The response of the people, "they listened," indicates obedience and submission to God's command. Listening in the biblical sense involves not just hearing but acting upon God's word. The decision to "turn back" demonstrates repentance and a change of heart, aligning their actions with God's will. The mention of "going against Jeroboam" highlights the specific conflict at hand, and their obedience averts unnecessary bloodshed. This outcome serves as a testament to the blessings of heeding God's voice and the peace that follows obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rehoboam
The son of Solomon and king of Judah, who initially sought to wage war against the northern tribes of Israel after the kingdom split.

2. Jeroboam
The first king of the northern kingdom of Israel, who led the ten tribes in rebellion against Rehoboam's rule.

3. Shemaiah
A man of God who delivered the LORD's message to Rehoboam and the people of Judah, instructing them not to fight against their brothers.

4. Judah and Benjamin
The two tribes that remained loyal to Rehoboam and formed the southern kingdom of Judah.

5. The LORD
The God of Israel, who intervened to prevent civil war among His people by commanding Rehoboam and his followers to stand down.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Word
Rehoboam's decision to listen to God's command through Shemaiah demonstrates the importance of obedience, even when it contradicts our initial plans or desires.

God's Sovereignty
The passage underscores God's control over the affairs of nations and individuals. His intervention prevented a potentially devastating civil war.

Unity Among Believers
The instruction not to fight against "your brothers" highlights the value God places on unity and peace among His people.

Listening to Godly Counsel
Rehoboam's willingness to heed the message from Shemaiah shows the importance of listening to godly counsel and being open to divine guidance.

Trust in God's Plan
The phrase "for this is My doing" reminds us to trust in God's overarching plan, even when circumstances seem challenging or confusing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rehoboam's response to God's command through Shemaiah challenge us to respond to divine guidance in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of avoiding conflict with our "brothers" in our personal relationships and church communities?

3. How does this passage illustrate the concept of God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding impact our daily decision-making?

4. What role does godly counsel play in your life, and how can you ensure you are open to receiving it?

5. How can we cultivate a heart of obedience to God's Word, especially when it requires us to change our plans or desires?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 12
Provides a parallel account of the division of the kingdom and the events leading up to Rehoboam's decision to heed God's command.

Matthew 5:9
Jesus' teaching on peacemakers can be connected to the decision to avoid conflict as instructed by God.

Romans 12:18
Encourages believers to live at peace with everyone, echoing the divine directive to avoid unnecessary conflict.

Proverbs 16:9
Highlights how human plans are subject to God's sovereign direction, as seen in Rehoboam's change of course.