2 Chronicles 10:13

And the king answered them harshly. King Rehoboam rejected the advice of the elders

Study Bible

And the king answered them harshly.
This phrase highlights King Rehoboam's response to the Israelites' request for lighter burdens. His harsh answer reflects a lack of wisdom and understanding, contrasting with the gentle and wise approach of his grandfather, King David. The harshness can be seen as a failure to heed the biblical principle found in Proverbs 15:1, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." Rehoboam's response led to the division of the kingdom, fulfilling the prophecy given to Jeroboam by the prophet Ahijah (1 Kings 11:29-31). This moment marks a significant turning point in Israel's history, as the united monarchy established under David and Solomon is fractured.

King Rehoboam rejected the advice of the elders.
Rehoboam's rejection of the elders' counsel is a pivotal decision that demonstrates his immaturity and pride. The elders, who had served his father Solomon, likely offered advice based on years of experience and understanding of the people's needs. Their counsel to lighten the people's burdens was rooted in wisdom and compassion, aligning with the biblical principle of servant leadership exemplified by Jesus Christ, who said, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve" (Mark 10:45). Rehoboam's choice to ignore their advice in favor of the younger advisors' counsel reveals a preference for power and control over empathy and service, leading to disastrous consequences for the kingdom. This decision underscores the importance of seeking and valuing wise counsel, a theme echoed throughout the Proverbs, which Solomon himself authored.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rehoboam
The son of Solomon and the king of Israel at this time. His decision-making in this chapter leads to the division of the kingdom.

2. Elders
The older advisors who served Solomon and offered wise counsel to Rehoboam, advising him to serve the people and speak kindly to them.

3. Israelites
The people of Israel who approached Rehoboam seeking relief from the heavy burdens imposed by Solomon.

4. Shechem
The place where Rehoboam went to be made king, and where the people of Israel gathered to make their request.

5. Jeroboam
A former official under Solomon who becomes a leader of the northern tribes after Rehoboam's harsh response.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Wise Counsel
Rehoboam's rejection of the elders' advice demonstrates the consequences of ignoring wise and experienced counsel. In our lives, seeking and heeding godly advice can prevent unnecessary conflict and division.

The Power of Words
Rehoboam's harsh words led to the fracturing of a nation. Our words have the power to build up or tear down, and we should strive to speak with kindness and wisdom.

Leadership and Servanthood
The elders advised Rehoboam to serve the people, highlighting a biblical model of leadership that prioritizes servanthood over authoritarianism. Leaders in any capacity should consider how they can serve those they lead.

Consequences of Pride
Rehoboam's decision was influenced by pride and a desire to assert his authority. Pride can blind us to wise counsel and lead to destructive decisions.

God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs
Despite Rehoboam's poor decision, God's sovereign plan was at work, fulfilling the prophecy given to Jeroboam. This reminds us that God can work through even our mistakes to accomplish His purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Rehoboam's decision to reject the elders' advice, and how can we apply this lesson in our own decision-making processes?

2. How does the account of Rehoboam's harsh response illustrate the biblical principle found in Proverbs 15:1 about the power of gentle words?

3. In what ways can we ensure that we are seeking and valuing wise counsel in our lives, especially when faced with significant decisions?

4. How does Rehoboam's leadership style contrast with the servant leadership model demonstrated by Jesus, and how can we apply this model in our own leadership roles?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced the consequences of pride in your own life. How can understanding God's sovereignty help us navigate the outcomes of our decisions, both good and bad?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 12
This chapter provides a parallel account of Rehoboam's decision and the resulting division of the kingdom, offering additional insights into the events.

Proverbs 15:1
This verse highlights the power of gentle words, contrasting with Rehoboam's harsh response.

James 1:5
Encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, which Rehoboam failed to do when he rejected the elders' advice.