2 Chronicles 12:13

Thus King Rehoboam established himself in Jerusalem. He was forty-one years old when he became king, and he reigned seventeen years in Jerusalem, the city the LORD had chosen from all the tribes of Israel in which to put His Name. His mother's name was Naamah the Ammonite.

Study Bible

Thus King Rehoboam strengthened his position in Jerusalem
The phrase "strengthened his position" suggests a consolidation of power and authority. In Hebrew, the word often translated as "strengthened" is "חָזַק" (chazaq), which implies becoming strong, firm, or resolute. This indicates that despite previous challenges, Rehoboam managed to establish a stable rule. Historically, Jerusalem was a fortified city, and Rehoboam's efforts to strengthen his position there reflect a strategic move to secure his reign. Jerusalem, being the political and spiritual center, was crucial for maintaining control over the kingdom.

and he reigned
The simple phrase "and he reigned" underscores the continuation of his rule. In the context of the divided kingdom, where the northern tribes had broken away, Rehoboam's reign in Judah was significant. The Hebrew root "מָלַךְ" (malak) means to reign or to be king, emphasizing the legitimacy and authority of his kingship despite the division.

Rehoboam was forty-one years old when he became king
The mention of Rehoboam's age, "forty-one years old," provides a personal detail that humanizes the king. It suggests a level of maturity and experience, although his earlier decisions led to the division of the kingdom. This age detail also helps in understanding the timeline of events in the biblical narrative.

and he reigned seventeen years in Jerusalem
The duration of "seventeen years" signifies a relatively stable period of governance. In biblical terms, the number seventeen can symbolize overcoming the enemy and complete victory. Despite the challenges Rehoboam faced, including the invasion by Shishak, his reign endured for a significant period, indicating a measure of success and stability.

the city the LORD had chosen from all the tribes of Israel in which to put His Name
This phrase highlights the divine selection of Jerusalem as the spiritual center. The Hebrew word for "chosen" is "בָּחַר" (bachar), which conveys a deliberate and purposeful choice by God. Jerusalem's significance is rooted in its role as the location of the Temple, the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. This divine choice underscores the city's centrality in Israel's religious life and God's covenant relationship with His people.

And his mother’s name was Naamah the Ammonite
The mention of "Naamah the Ammonite" provides insight into Rehoboam's lineage and the political alliances of the time. The Ammonites were often in conflict with Israel, and Naamah's presence in the royal lineage suggests a complex relationship between Israel and its neighbors. Her inclusion in the narrative may also reflect the influence of foreign cultures and practices within the kingdom, which were often points of contention in Israel's history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rehoboam
The son of Solomon and king of Judah, known for his role in the division of the united kingdom of Israel.

2. Jerusalem
The city chosen by God to place His Name, serving as the political and spiritual center of Israel.

3. Naamah the Ammonite
Rehoboam's mother, highlighting the influence of foreign alliances and marriages in Israel's history.

4. The LORD's Choice
God's selection of Jerusalem as the city for His Name, emphasizing divine sovereignty and purpose.

5. Rehoboam's Reign
His reign lasted seventeen years, marked by challenges and the need for strengthening his position.

Teaching Points

Divine Sovereignty and Human Leadership
Recognize that God’s choice of Jerusalem reflects His sovereign will and purpose. Leaders should seek to align with God's plans rather than their own ambitions.

The Influence of Family and Heritage
Rehoboam's background, including his mother’s identity, reminds us of the lasting impact of family and heritage. We should be mindful of the influences we allow into our lives and families.

Strengthening Our Position in Faith
Just as Rehoboam needed to strengthen his position, believers are called to fortify their faith through prayer, study, and community.

The Importance of Obedience to God’s Choice
Jerusalem was chosen by God, and obedience to His choice is crucial. We should seek to honor God’s decisions in our lives, trusting His wisdom.

Learning from Past Mistakes
Rehoboam’s reign was marked by challenges due to earlier decisions. We should learn from past mistakes and seek God’s guidance to avoid repeating them.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the choice of Jerusalem as the city for God's Name influence our understanding of God's plans for His people?

2. In what ways can we strengthen our spiritual position, similar to how Rehoboam strengthened his position in Jerusalem?

3. How does the influence of family and heritage play a role in our spiritual journey, as seen in Rehoboam's life?

4. What lessons can we learn from Rehoboam's reign about the importance of aligning our leadership and decisions with God's will?

5. How can we apply the principle of learning from past mistakes in our own lives, drawing from Rehoboam's experiences?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 11:36
This verse highlights God's promise to maintain a lamp for David's lineage in Jerusalem, connecting to the divine choice of the city.

Deuteronomy 12:5
This passage speaks of God's choice of a place for His Name, reinforcing the significance of Jerusalem.

1 Kings 14:21
Provides additional context on Rehoboam's reign and his mother's identity, linking to the broader account of his kingship.

Psalm 132:13-14
Expresses God's love for Zion (Jerusalem) and His desire to dwell there, underscoring the city's spiritual importance.