2 Chronicles 12:15

Now the acts of Rehoboam, from first to last, are they not written in the records of Shemaiah the Prophet and of Iddo the Seer concerning the genealogies? There was war between Rehoboam and Jeroboam throughout their days.

Study Bible

Now the acts of Rehoboam
The phrase "acts of Rehoboam" refers to the deeds and events during the reign of Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and king of Judah. The Hebrew word for "acts" is "דִּבְרֵי" (divrei), which can also mean "words" or "matters." This suggests a comprehensive account of Rehoboam's reign, encompassing both his political actions and personal conduct. Rehoboam's reign was marked by significant events, including the division of the united monarchy and the subsequent weakening of the kingdom. His actions are a reminder of the importance of wise leadership and the consequences of failing to seek God's guidance.

from beginning to end
This phrase emphasizes the completeness of the record of Rehoboam's reign. The Hebrew words "מִן־רֵאשִׁית וְעַד־אַחֲרִית" (min-reishit ve'ad-acharit) indicate a full account from the start to the conclusion of his rule. This comprehensive documentation serves as a historical record and a spiritual lesson, illustrating the full scope of a leader's impact on a nation. It underscores the biblical principle that God is interested in the entirety of our lives, from beginning to end.

are they not written in the records of Shemaiah the prophet and of Iddo the seer
The mention of "Shemaiah the prophet and of Iddo the seer" highlights the role of prophetic and historical writings in preserving the history of Israel. Shemaiah and Iddo were contemporaries of Rehoboam, and their records provided an authoritative account of his reign. The Hebrew term for "records" is "סֵפֶר" (sefer), meaning "book" or "scroll," indicating that these were written documents. This phrase underscores the importance of prophetic insight and historical documentation in understanding God's dealings with His people. It also reflects the biblical tradition of recording history through the lens of divine revelation.

concerning genealogies
The inclusion of "genealogies" in the records suggests a focus on lineage and heritage, which were crucial in the biblical context. The Hebrew word "יְחָשִׂים" (yechasim) refers to genealogical records, emphasizing the importance of family lines in the history of Israel. Genealogies were not only a means of establishing identity and inheritance but also a way of tracing God's covenantal promises through generations. This highlights the continuity of God's plan and the faithfulness of His promises to His people.

There was also war between Rehoboam and Jeroboam throughout their days
The phrase "war between Rehoboam and Jeroboam" refers to the ongoing conflict between the southern kingdom of Judah, ruled by Rehoboam, and the northern kingdom of Israel, led by Jeroboam. The Hebrew word for "war" is "מִלְחָמָה" (milchamah), indicating a state of conflict and hostility. This persistent warfare was a consequence of the division of the kingdom, which occurred due to Rehoboam's harsh policies and failure to heed wise counsel. The phrase serves as a sobering reminder of the destructive nature of division and the importance of unity under God's guidance. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of the struggle between obedience to God and the consequences of rebellion.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rehoboam
The son of Solomon and king of Judah, whose reign was marked by division and conflict. His actions led to the split of the united kingdom of Israel.

2. Shemaiah the Prophet
A prophet who played a role in advising Rehoboam, particularly noted for his intervention to prevent a civil war between Rehoboam and Jeroboam.

3. Iddo the Seer
A seer or prophet who chronicled events and genealogies, providing historical context and spiritual insights into the reigns of the kings.

4. Jeroboam
The first king of the northern kingdom of Israel, who led the ten tribes in rebellion against Rehoboam, resulting in the division of the kingdom.

5. Continual Warfare
The ongoing conflict between the kingdoms of Judah and Israel, symbolizing the spiritual and political strife that followed the division of the united monarchy.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Counsel
Rehoboam's reign illustrates the need for leaders to seek and heed godly advice. Ignoring wise counsel can lead to division and conflict.

Consequences of Disobedience
The division of the kingdom serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience to God's commands, both for leaders and nations.

The Role of Prophets and Seers
Prophets like Shemaiah and seers like Iddo played crucial roles in guiding and recording the spiritual and historical accounts of Israel and Judah.

The Reality of Spiritual Warfare
The continual warfare between Rehoboam and Jeroboam reflects the ongoing spiritual battles believers face, calling for vigilance and reliance on God's strength.

Legacy and Record Keeping
The mention of records by Shemaiah and Iddo underscores the importance of documenting God's work and faithfulness throughout history.

Bible Study Questions

1. How did Rehoboam's decision-making contribute to the division of the kingdom, and what can we learn about the importance of seeking godly counsel in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the continual warfare between Rehoboam and Jeroboam reflect the spiritual battles we face today, and how can we prepare for these battles?

3. What role did prophets and seers play in the history of Israel and Judah, and how can we apply their example of faithfulness and truth-telling in our own communities?

4. How does the division of the kingdom serve as a warning about the consequences of disobedience to God's commands, and what steps can we take to ensure we remain obedient?

5. Why is it important to document and remember God's work in our lives, and how can we create a legacy of faithfulness for future generations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 12
Provides a detailed account of the division of the kingdom and the initial conflict between Rehoboam and Jeroboam.

2 Chronicles 11:2-4
Describes Shemaiah's role in advising Rehoboam not to fight against the northern tribes, highlighting the importance of seeking God's guidance.

1 Kings 14:30
Mentions the continual warfare between Rehoboam and Jeroboam, emphasizing the persistent conflict and its impact on both kingdoms.