Reading Time: 3 minutes
by Brad Boyles
After reading this chapter, I am reminded of a common situation we have all encountered. It’s that moment when someone is telling the truth, but not giving you the full story. When a potential employer asks you, “What is your greatest weakness?” you answer with, “I work too hard.” That may be true, but we all know it’s not really a weakness and probably not your greatest one either. Abijah gives an impassioned speech about how the northern tribe has abandoned God’s will. His language frames the situation as if everything is their fault. Yes, it is true that the southern kingdom was under the Davidic Covenant and would lay claim to the lineage of Christ. More on this later. The point being, this was not all Israel’s fault. Solomon was responsible for the initial breaking of the covenant and the downfall into idolatry. Both Rehoboam and Jeroboam made horrendous choices following the split. There was some truth to what Abijah was saying. God would still uphold his covenant and bless His people. This is actually what’s so shocking. It’s hard to believe the slaughtering that took place here was God’s ideal plan. I would go as far as to say it was rebellion. However, the Lord had made an unconditional covenant with David. Although God desires obedience, His plan was not dependent on the choices of the people. Obviously, after reading about Solomon, Rehoboam, and Jeroboam, we are left wondering why God would still choose to be faithful. I wonder the same thing about myself! The truth for us is that Jesus has fulfilled the New Covenant. Its fulfillment is not dependent on our choices. We can’t earn Salvation. However, after knowing the immense gap that existed between us and God, and the fact that Jesus still came to die for our rebellion, how could we
not desire to obey Him? I am not ashamed to say that I have a little bit of Solomon, Rehoboam, and Jeroboam in me. Jesus still went to the cross. That’s the reason I write these words right now. It’s the reason I seek to know Him and obey Him. I’m not perfect, but I am perfectly loved and I am willing to put my life in the hands of His love. What has the sacrifice of Jesus done for your obedience lately? Are you confident that His love never fails?