2 Chronicles 10:15

So the king did not listen to the people, and indeed this turn of events was from God, in order that the LORD might fulfill the word that He had spoken through Ahijah the Shilonite to Jeroboam son of Nebat.

Study Bible

So the king did not listen to the people
This phrase refers to King Rehoboam, Solomon's son, who ascended to the throne of Israel. The people, led by Jeroboam, requested that Rehoboam lighten the heavy burdens imposed by Solomon. Rehoboam's refusal to heed their plea led to the division of the kingdom. This moment highlights the importance of wise counsel and the consequences of ignoring the needs of the people. It also reflects the fulfillment of God's sovereign plan, as Rehoboam's decision was influenced by divine will rather than mere human error.

and indeed this turn of events was from God
This indicates that the division of the kingdom was not merely a political or social occurrence but was orchestrated by God. It underscores the biblical theme of God's sovereignty over human affairs. This divine intervention was a response to Solomon's idolatry and disobedience, as God had previously warned that the kingdom would be torn from his lineage. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments.

in order that the LORD might fulfill the word that He had spoken
This phrase emphasizes the reliability and certainty of God's word. The events were a direct fulfillment of a prophecy, demonstrating that God's promises and warnings are always accomplished. It reassures believers of the trustworthiness of God's word and His control over history.

through Ahijah the Shilonite
Ahijah was a prophet from Shiloh, a significant religious center in Israel before the establishment of Jerusalem as the capital. His prophecy to Jeroboam, recorded in 1 Kings 11:29-39, foretold the division of the kingdom and Jeroboam's rise to power. Ahijah's role as a prophet underscores the importance of prophetic voices in guiding and shaping Israel's history.

to Jeroboam son of Nebat
Jeroboam, an Ephraimite and former official under Solomon, was chosen by God to lead the ten northern tribes of Israel. His rise to power was part of God's plan to discipline the house of David for Solomon's sins. Jeroboam's leadership, however, also led to further idolatry and sin, illustrating the complex interplay of divine sovereignty and human responsibility.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rehoboam
The son of Solomon and king of Judah, whose decision not to listen to the people's request led to the division of the kingdom.

2. Jeroboam son of Nebat
A former official of Solomon who became the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel after the division.

3. Ahijah the Shilonite
A prophet who foretold the division of the kingdom and Jeroboam's rise to power.

4. The People of Israel
The northern tribes who requested lighter burdens and ultimately rebelled against Rehoboam's harsh policies.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The sovereign God who orchestrated the events to fulfill His prophetic word.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs
Recognize that God is in control, even when human decisions seem misguided or unjust. His purposes will ultimately prevail.

The Importance of Wise Counsel
Seek and heed wise, godly advice, especially when making significant decisions. Rehoboam's failure to do so led to disastrous consequences.

Consequences of Pride and Arrogance
Pride can lead to downfall. Rehoboam's arrogance and refusal to listen to the people resulted in the division of the kingdom.

Fulfillment of God's Word
Trust in the reliability of God's promises. What He has spoken will come to pass, as seen in the fulfillment of Ahijah's prophecy.

Listening to the Needs of Others
Leaders should be attentive to the needs and concerns of those they lead. Ignoring these can lead to division and conflict.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rehoboam's decision reflect a failure to adhere to the principles outlined in Deuteronomy 17:14-20?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are seeking and following wise counsel in our own lives?

3. How does the fulfillment of Ahijah's prophecy in this passage encourage us to trust in God's promises today?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to avoid the pitfalls of pride and arrogance in our leadership roles?

5. How can Romans 8:28 provide comfort and assurance when we face challenging or confusing situations in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 11:29-31
This passage describes Ahijah's prophecy to Jeroboam, foretelling the division of the kingdom, which is fulfilled in 2 Chronicles 10:15.

Deuteronomy 17:14-20
Provides guidelines for kingship in Israel, emphasizing the importance of humility and adherence to God's law, which Rehoboam failed to follow.

Proverbs 15:22
Highlights the value of wise counsel, contrasting with Rehoboam's choice to ignore the advice of the elders.

Romans 8:28
Illustrates how God works through all circumstances to fulfill His purposes, similar to how He used Rehoboam's decision to fulfill His word.