2 Chronicles 13:20

Jeroboam did not again recover his power during the days of Abijah, and the LORD struck him down and he died.

Study Bible

Jeroboam did not again recover his power during the days of Abijah
This phrase highlights the decline of Jeroboam's influence after his defeat by Abijah, king of Judah. Jeroboam, the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel, had initially established a strong rule after the division of the united monarchy. However, his reign was marked by idolatry and rebellion against God's commandments, as seen in 1 Kings 12:28-33, where he set up golden calves for worship. The loss of power during Abijah's reign signifies a divine judgment against Jeroboam's apostasy. Abijah's victory, as recorded in 2 Chronicles 13:13-18, was attributed to his reliance on the LORD, contrasting with Jeroboam's reliance on his own strength and false gods.

and the LORD struck him down
This phrase indicates divine intervention in the fate of Jeroboam. The LORD's action against Jeroboam serves as a fulfillment of the prophecy given by Ahijah the Shilonite in 1 Kings 14:7-16, where it was foretold that Jeroboam's house would suffer because of his sins. The striking down of Jeroboam underscores the biblical theme of God's sovereignty and justice, where He actively opposes those who lead His people into idolatry and disobedience. This divine judgment serves as a warning to future leaders about the consequences of turning away from God's commandments.

and he died
The death of Jeroboam marks the end of his reign and the beginning of a new chapter in the history of Israel. His death, as a result of divine judgment, emphasizes the transient nature of earthly power and the ultimate authority of God over life and death. This event also sets the stage for the continued struggle between the northern and southern kingdoms, highlighting the ongoing consequences of the division of Israel. The narrative of Jeroboam's demise serves as a reminder of the biblical principle found in Proverbs 14:12, that there is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeroboam
The first king of the northern kingdom of Israel after the division of the united monarchy. He led Israel into idolatry and was opposed by Abijah, king of Judah.

2. Abijah
The king of Judah who reigned after Rehoboam. He is noted for his confrontation with Jeroboam and his reliance on the LORD during battle.

3. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who intervenes in the affairs of nations and individuals, demonstrating His sovereignty and justice.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom, consisting of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin, which remained under the Davidic line of kings.

5. Israel
The northern kingdom, consisting of the other ten tribes, which broke away under Jeroboam's leadership.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
The LORD's intervention in the affairs of nations and individuals demonstrates His ultimate control over history. We can trust in His plans and purposes, even when human leaders fail.

Consequences of Disobedience
Jeroboam's downfall is a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God. Our actions have spiritual and practical repercussions.

Faithfulness to God's Covenant
Abijah's reliance on God during his reign highlights the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant. We are called to trust and obey God in all circumstances.

Divine Justice
The LORD's judgment on Jeroboam underscores His justice. God will not allow sin and idolatry to go unpunished, and He will uphold His righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Jeroboam's downfall illustrate the principle of divine justice, and how can this understanding impact our view of current world events?

2. In what ways does Abijah's reliance on God during his conflict with Jeroboam serve as a model for us in facing our own battles?

3. How can we apply the lessons of obedience and disobedience from Jeroboam's life to our personal walk with God?

4. What are some modern-day "idols" that can lead us away from faithfulness to God, and how can we guard against them?

5. How does understanding God's sovereignty over the rise and fall of leaders influence our prayers for our own leaders and nations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 14:1-20
Provides background on Jeroboam's reign and the prophecy against his house due to his idolatry and disobedience.

1 Kings 15:1-8
Offers a parallel account of Abijah's reign and his conflict with Jeroboam, emphasizing the LORD's support for David's line.

Deuteronomy 28:15-68
Details the curses for disobedience to God's covenant, which can be seen in the downfall of Jeroboam.

Psalm 75:7
Speaks of God as the judge who brings down one and exalts another, reflecting His role in the rise and fall of kings.