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, from first to last,
Rehoboam was the son of Solomon and the first king of the southern kingdom of Judah after the united monarchy of Israel split. His reign is marked by a lack of wisdom compared to his father, Solomon. The phrase "from first to last" suggests a comprehensive account of his reign, indicating that his actions, both good and bad, were recorded. This reflects the biblical principle that God is aware of all human actions and holds leaders accountable.

are they not written in the records of Shemaiah the Prophet and of Iddo the Seer concerning the genealogies?
Shemaiah and Iddo were prophets during the time of Rehoboam. Shemaiah is known for delivering God's message to Rehoboam, warning him not to fight against the northern tribes after the kingdom split. Iddo is mentioned in other parts of the Bible as a chronicler of the kings. The mention of "genealogies" highlights the importance of lineage and heritage in Israelite culture, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promises through specific family lines. This also underscores the role of prophets and seers in documenting history and providing divine insight.

There was war between Rehoboam and Jeroboam throughout their days.
The division of the kingdom led to ongoing conflict between Rehoboam, who ruled Judah, and Jeroboam, who ruled the northern kingdom of Israel. This strife is a direct consequence of Rehoboam's harsh policies and failure to heed wise counsel, leading to the fulfillment of God's judgment on Solomon's house. The persistent warfare symbolizes the spiritual and political division that plagued Israel, serving as a cautionary tale about the consequences of disobedience to God. This conflict also foreshadows the eventual downfall of both kingdoms due to their continued unfaithfulness.

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.