2 Chronicles 13:6

Yet Jeroboam son of Nebat, a servant of Solomon son of David, rose up and rebelled against his master.

Study Bible

Yet Jeroboam son of Nebat
Jeroboam, whose name means "the people will contend" in Hebrew, was a significant figure in Israel's history. He was originally a servant under King Solomon, indicating his humble beginnings. His rise to power was prophesied by Ahijah the Shilonite, who tore a new garment into twelve pieces, symbolizing the division of the kingdom (1 Kings 11:29-31). Jeroboam's lineage, being the son of Nebat, is often mentioned to emphasize his non-royal background, contrasting with the Davidic line.

a servant of Solomon son of David
This phrase underscores Jeroboam's initial position as a subordinate to Solomon, the son of David. Solomon, known for his wisdom and the building of the Temple, was a king who expanded Israel's influence. The mention of "son of David" highlights the Davidic covenant, which promised a lasting dynasty. Jeroboam's role as a servant suggests he was once loyal and trusted, managing labor forces (1 Kings 11:28). His rebellion is thus seen as a betrayal not just of Solomon, but of the divinely ordained order.

rose up and rebelled
The act of rising up and rebelling indicates a deliberate and conscious decision to oppose authority. In Hebrew, the word for "rebelled" can also mean to transgress or revolt. This rebellion was not merely political but spiritual, as Jeroboam led Israel into idolatry by setting up golden calves in Bethel and Dan (1 Kings 12:28-30). His actions were a direct challenge to the worship of Yahweh in Jerusalem, the city chosen by God for His name to dwell.

against his master
The term "master" here refers to Solomon, but symbolically, it also represents the divinely established order. Jeroboam's rebellion was against the king whom God had placed over Israel. This act of defiance is a recurring theme in the Bible, where human pride and ambition lead to conflict with God's will. The historical context shows that Jeroboam's rebellion resulted in the division of the united monarchy into the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah, a division that had lasting consequences for the people of God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeroboam son of Nebat
Originally a servant of King Solomon, Jeroboam became the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel after the division of the united monarchy. His rebellion against Solomon's son, Rehoboam, led to the split of the kingdom.

2. Solomon son of David
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon was the third king of Israel, known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, including the First Temple in Jerusalem.

3. Rehoboam
The son of Solomon and the first king of the southern kingdom of Judah. His harsh policies and refusal to lighten the burdens on the people led to the division of the kingdom.

4. The Kingdom of Israel
After the division, the northern kingdom, consisting of ten tribes, was ruled by Jeroboam. It was distinct from the southern kingdom of Judah.

5. The Rebellion
Jeroboam's rebellion against Rehoboam was a significant event that led to the division of the united monarchy into two separate kingdoms.

Teaching Points

Respect for Authority
Jeroboam's rebellion serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting God-ordained authority. While there are times for righteous dissent, rebellion for personal gain or power is condemned.

Consequences of Division
The division of the kingdom illustrates the destructive nature of division within God's people. Unity in the body of Christ is essential for fulfilling God's purposes.

God's Sovereignty
Despite human rebellion and division, God's sovereign plan continues. He uses even the actions of rebellious individuals to accomplish His purposes.

Leadership and Responsibility
Leaders are accountable for their actions and decisions. Rehoboam's failure to listen to wise counsel led to the loss of the kingdom, highlighting the need for humility and wisdom in leadership.

Faithfulness to God's Commands
Jeroboam's actions were contrary to God's commands, leading to idolatry and further sin in Israel. Faithfulness to God's Word is crucial for personal and communal well-being.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jeroboam's rebellion against Rehoboam reflect the broader theme of authority and submission in the Bible?

2. In what ways can division within the church or community be prevented, drawing lessons from the division of Israel and Judah?

3. How does the account of Jeroboam and Rehoboam illustrate the importance of seeking and heeding wise counsel?

4. What are some modern examples of rebellion against authority, and how can Christians respond in a way that honors God?

5. How can we ensure that our actions align with God's commands, avoiding the pitfalls of Jeroboam's leadership?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 11:26-40
This passage provides the background of Jeroboam's rise to power and the prophecy given to him by the prophet Ahijah, foretelling his rule over ten tribes of Israel.

1 Kings 12:1-24
Details the events leading to the division of the kingdom, including Rehoboam's decision to follow the advice of his younger counselors, which led to the people's rebellion.

Exodus 20:12
The commandment to honor one's father and mother can be seen as a broader principle of respecting authority, which Jeroboam violated by rebelling against his master.