1 Kings 12-14 | The Divided Kingdom

In 1 Kings 12, we witness the division of the united kingdom of Israel. Following the death of King Solomon, his son Rehoboam ascends to the throne. However, he fails to heed the advice of the elders and instead listens to the counsel of his peers, which leads to his harsh rule. This decision prompts the ten northern tribes, led by Jeroboam, to revolt and establish the separate kingdom of Israel. This event fulfills the prophecy of Ahijah and marks a significant turning point in Israel's history.

Chapter 13 introduces a prophetic confrontation between a man of God and Jeroboam, the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel. The man of God is sent by the Lord to denounce Jeroboam's idolatrous practices, specifically the setting up of golden calves for worship. Despite initially receiving divine protection and a powerful sign, the man of God disobeys God's instructions and is deceived by an older prophet, leading to his death. This cautionary tale highlights the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God's commands.

In 1 Kings 14, the focus shifts to the southern kingdom of Judah and its king, Abijah (also known as Rehoboam's son). Abijah's reign is marked by a decline in faithfulness to God, following the footsteps of his father and grandfather. The chapter recounts how Abijah and his son fall into idolatry, forsaking the Lord's ways. As a consequence, God brings judgment upon the kingdom, promising to uproot the house of Jeroboam and cause calamity to befall Israel. Despite these warnings, the chapter concludes with Abijah's death and the continuation of wickedness in both kingdoms.