Theory question 103
Solomon and the Divided Kingdom(a) Narrate the circumstances that led to the rejection of Rehoboam as a king of Israel. (b) What three factors can lead to the rejection of a political leader?
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(a) Solomon had placed heavy taxes and forced labour on the people (1 Kings 5:13-14; 12:4).
After Solomon died, Rehoboam went to Shechem to be made king (1 Kings 12:1).
Jeroboam and the assembly asked him to lighten their heavy yoke (1 Kings 12:3-4).
He asked for three days (1 Kings 12:5).
The old men advised him to serve the people and speak kindly (1 Kings 12:6-7).
He rejected this and followed the young men's advice (1 Kings 12:8-11).
He told the people, "My father chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions" (1 Kings 12:14).
Israel said, "What portion have we in David? To your tents, O Israel!" (1 Kings 12:16).
They stoned Adoram the taskmaster; Rehoboam fled; the ten tribes made Jeroboam king (1 Kings 12:18-20).
This fulfilled Ahijah's prophecy because of Solomon's idolatry (1 Kings 11:29-33).
(b) Any three: oppressive or heavy taxes; arrogance and refusal to listen; bad advisers; corruption; injustice and tribalism; breaking promises; insecurity and poverty.
Narrate 1 Kings 12:1-20, then three factors.