The Divided Kingdom

As we transition from I Kings into II Kings, the story of Israel continues to unfold with the same themes of leadership, faithfulness, and divine judgment. While I Kings chronicles the rise and fall of King Solomon and the division of the United Kingdom into Israel and Judah, II Kings picks up with the ongoing struggles of both nations under a series of kings, many of whom lead their people further away from God.

The prophets, particularly Elijah and his successor Elisha, play a pivotal role in calling the kings and the people back to repentance, while God's judgment looms over their persistent disobedience. The narrative in II Kings moves toward the inevitable destruction of Israel and Judah, marking the end of their independence and the beginning of exile, but also points to God's unwavering sovereignty over history.

I. The Kingdom Divides – I Kings 12:1 – 14:31

Jeroboam's life and the events in 1 Kings chapters 12-13 mark a critical turning point in the history of Israel. Jeroboam, originally a servant of King Solomon, became the first king of the newly formed northern kingdom of Israel after the division of the united monarchy.

God had promised him leadership over the ten northern tribes due to Solomon's unfaithfulness. However, despite the divine opportunity, Jeroboam's reign is characterized by disobedience and idolatry.

I Kings 12

The chapter begins with the people of Israel asking Rehoboam, Solomon's son and successor in Judah, to lighten the heavy burdens imposed by his father. Instead of listening to the elders' wise counsel, Rehoboam follows the advice of his younger peers and threatens to increase their labor, causing a rebellion.

As a result, ten of the twelve tribes reject Rehoboam and proclaim Jeroboam king over Israel, thus dividing the kingdom into the northern kingdom of Israel (under Jeroboam) and the southern kingdom of Judah (under Rehoboam).

Fearing that his people would return to Jerusalem to worship at the temple, Jeroboam devises a plan to secure his power. He makes two golden calves and places them in Bethel and Dan, telling the people,

So the king consulted, and made two golden calves, and he said to them, "It is too much for you to go up to Jerusalem; behold your gods, O Israel, that brought you up from the land of Egypt."
- I Kings 12:28

Jeroboam establishes a rival religious system, appointing non-Levite priests and creating new festivals to keep the Israelites from going to Judah to worship. This act of idolatry sets the tone for the rest of his reign and leads Israel into spiritual corruption.

I Kings 13

In this chapter, a prophet from Judah, often referred to as the "man of God," is sent by God to Bethel to confront Jeroboam during one of his false worship ceremonies. The prophet boldly declares that a future king named Josiah will arise and destroy the idolatrous altar and priests.

As a sign, the altar is immediately split, and Jeroboam's hand, which he had raised against the prophet, withers. Jeroboam pleads for mercy, and the prophet prays for his hand to be restored, which it is.

However, Jeroboam does not repent of his idolatry. The chapter continues with the story of the prophet's disobedience to God. Despite being warned by God not to eat or drink in Bethel, the prophet is deceived by an old prophet from Bethel and accepts his invitation to a meal.

This act of disobedience leads to the man of God being killed by a lion on his way home. This tragic event serves as a warning about the consequences of disobeying God's commands, even for prophets.

Summary of Jeroboam's Life

Jeroboam began as a leader chosen by God to rule over the northern tribes of Israel, but his fear of losing power led him to sin by establishing idolatrous worship practices.

Despite warnings from prophets, Jeroboam did not turn from his sinful ways. His actions set a precedent of idolatry and disobedience that plagued the northern kingdom of Israel throughout its history.

Jeroboam's reign marks the beginning of Israel's spiritual decline, and he is remembered as the king who "caused Israel to sin."

I Kings 14

This chapter describes key events in the reigns of Jeroboam, king of Israel, and Rehoboam, king of Judah. It focuses on the consequences of their disobedience to God and the resulting judgments on both kings and their kingdoms.

A. The Illness of Jeroboam's Son (I Kings 14:1-18)

Jeroboam's son, Abijah, falls gravely ill, and Jeroboam, concerned for his child, sends his wife in disguise to the prophet Ahijah at Shiloh. Jeroboam hopes to receive good news about his son's condition. However, Ahijah, though blind due to old age, recognizes her immediately because the Lord had revealed her coming and the true reason for her visit.

Ahijah delivers a devastating message from God. He condemns Jeroboam for leading Israel into idolatry, worshiping golden calves, and turning away from God's commandments. God's judgment is pronounced: Jeroboam's dynasty will be completely destroyed, and all his male descendants will be killed. Ahijah also declares that Abijah, the ill son, will die as soon as Jeroboam's wife returns to the city. This child, however, will be the only one in Jeroboam's family to receive a proper burial, as God saw something good in him. True to the prophecy, Abijah dies as soon as his mother steps into the house, and the people of Israel mourn for him.

Impact: Jeroboam's continued idolatry brings about a severe judgment, leading to the eventual downfall of his dynasty. His refusal to repent demonstrates how idolatry can corrupt an entire nation and its leaders. This event sets the stage for the turbulent future of the northern kingdom of Israel, which would be plagued by political instability and divine punishment.

B. The Death of Jeroboam (I Kings 14:19-20)

The chapter briefly mentions Jeroboam's death. After ruling Israel for 22 years, he dies, and his son Nadab succeeds him as king. Jeroboam's legacy is one of sin, and his name becomes synonymous with leading Israel into idolatry.

Impact: Jeroboam's reign establishes a pattern of disobedience and idolatry that subsequent kings in Israel would follow. His failure as a leader causes lasting spiritual and political harm to the northern kingdom.

C. Rehoboam's Reign in Judah (I Kings 14:21-24)

Meanwhile, Rehoboam, Solomon's son, reigns in Judah. Rehoboam's rule is marked by the nation's moral and spiritual decline. The people of Judah engage in idolatry, building high places, sacred pillars, and Asherah poles, and practicing detestable customs, including male shrine prostitution, similar to the pagan nations around them. This marks a significant departure from the worship of the true God.

Impact: Rehoboam's failure to lead Judah in faithfulness to God results in widespread corruption and idolatry. Judah begins to mirror the sinful practices of the surrounding nations, which would later bring God's judgment on them as well.

D. Egypt Invades Judah (I Kings 14:25-28)

In the fifth year of Rehoboam's reign, King Shishak of Egypt invades Judah. Shishak plunders the treasures of the temple of the Lord and the royal palace, taking all the gold shields Solomon had made. To replace these, Rehoboam makes bronze shields, which are much less valuable. These shields are used when he enters the temple, but they symbolize the decline of Judah's former glory under Solomon.

Impact: The invasion by Shishak is a direct consequence of Judah's unfaithfulness to God. The loss of the temple treasures represents the erosion of Judah's spiritual and material wealth, signaling a decline from the golden age of Solomon to a period of vulnerability and weakness.

E. Rehoboam's Death (I Kings 14:29-31)

The chapter concludes with a brief account of Rehoboam's death. After reigning for 17 years, he dies and is buried in Jerusalem, the city chosen by God for His name. His son, Abijam (a form of the name Abijah – II Chronicles 13:21), succeeds him as king and reigns only three years before he dies and is succeeded by his son, Asa. We'll talk about him in a moment.

The chapter notes that there was constant warfare between Rehoboam and Jeroboam throughout their reigns, further illustrating the division and conflict between Israel and Judah.

Impact: Rehoboam's reign is marked by failure, both in terms of spiritual leadership and political stability. His death symbolizes the ongoing decline of the Davidic dynasty in Judah, with the kingdom becoming more spiritually corrupt and politically unstable.

Overall Impact of I Kings 14:1-31

This chapter highlights the devastating effects of disobedience and idolatry in both Israel and Judah. Jeroboam's idolatry leads to the eventual destruction of his dynasty, while Rehoboam's failure to lead Judah in righteousness brings about military defeat and spiritual decline. Both kingdoms suffer from their leaders' failure to follow God's commands, leading to a weakening of their political power and a growing distance from the Lord. The chapter serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's guidance.

II. Asa's Reign – I Kings 15:8-24

1. Asa's Accession (I Kings 15:8)

Asa became king of Judah following the death of his father, Abijam.

2. Religious Reforms (I Kings 15:9-13)

Asa did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, much like King David. He removed the pagan idols, banished the male shrine prostitutes, and deposed his grandmother Maacah from her position as queen mother because of her idolatry.

3. Commitment to God (I Kings 15:14)

Although Asa did not remove all the high places, his heart was fully committed to the Lord throughout his reign.

4. Temple Treasures (I Kings 15:15)

Asa brought silver, gold, and other valuable items into the temple, dedicating them to the Lord.

5. Conflict with Baasha, King of Israel (I Kings 15:16-21)

Baasha, king of Israel, fortified Ramah to block Judah's access. Asa responded by sending the temple and royal treasures to Ben-Hadad, king of Aram, to form an alliance and pressure Baasha to withdraw. Ben-Hadad attacked Israel's northern cities, forcing Baasha to stop building Ramah.

6. Fortifications (I Kings 15:22)

After Baasha's withdrawal, Asa used the materials from Ramah to strengthen the cities of Geba and Mizpah.

7. Final Years and Death (I Kings 15:23-24)

Asa ruled Judah for 41 years. Toward the end of his reign, he suffered from a severe foot disease but relied more on physicians than seeking the Lord. He eventually died and was buried with his ancestors in the city of David.

King Asa's reign is remembered for his faithfulness to God, his religious reforms, and his military diplomacy.

III. The Rise of Ahab and Elijah – I Kings 16:1–18:46

A. Israelite Kings – I Kings 16:1-34

1 Kings 16 details the rapid succession of kings in the northern kingdom of Israel, their sinful reigns, and God's judgment against them. The chapter highlights political instability and deepening idolatry during this period.

1. Judgment on Baasha (I Kings 16:1-7)

Baasha, who had assassinated King Nadab and took the throne, is condemned by God through the prophet Jehu. God judges Baasha for continuing in the idolatrous ways of Jeroboam, leading to a prophecy of the destruction of his dynasty, similar to Jeroboam's fate.

Baasha reigns for 24 years, but his death brings no lasting peace.

2. Elah's Brief Reign (I Kings 16:8-10)

Elah, Baasha's son, rules for only two years before being assassinated by his military commander, Zimri, while drunk. Zimri seizes the throne.

3. Zimri's Short Reign (I Kings 16:11-20)

Zimri kills all of Baasha's descendants to fulfill the prophecy, but he reigns for only seven days. The Israelite army, stationed at Gibbethon, proclaims their commander Omri as king. Zimri, realizing his defeat, sets fire to the royal palace and dies in the flames.

4. Omri's Rise to Power (I Kings 16:21-28)

After Zimri's death, a civil conflict ensues between Omri and another claimant, Tibni. Omri eventually prevails, becoming king of Israel and reigning for 12 years.

Omri establishes Samaria as the new capital of Israel, a significant political move, but he continues in idolatry, "doing more evil than all those before him."

5. Ahab's Reign Begins (I Kings 16:29-34)

Omri's son, Ahab, becomes king and reigns for 22 years. Ahab is described as the most wicked king yet, exceeding the sins of his predecessors.

He marries Jezebel, a Sidonian princess, and officially introduces Baal worship in Israel, building a temple for Baal in Samaria.

Ahab's reign marks a significant deepening of Israel's idolatry and rebellion against God.

Conclusion

I Kings 16 highlights the increasingly sinful reigns of the kings of Israel and the political instability caused by assassinations and civil war. God's judgment on the house of Baasha and the continued idolatry under Omri and Ahab sets the stage for future confrontations between the prophets of God and the leadership of Israel.

B. Ahab and Elijah – I Kings 17:1–18:46

1 Kings 17 introduces the prophet Elijah and marks the beginning of his prophetic ministry during the reign of King Ahab in Israel. The chapter focuses on God's miraculous provision for Elijah and two significant miracles.

1. Elijah Proclaims a Drought (I Kings 17:1)

Elijah, the prophet, declares that there will be no rain in Israel except by his word, as a judgment from God due to Ahab's idolatry and Baal worship.

2. Elijah Fed by Ravens (I Kings 17:2-7)

Following the proclamation, God instructs Elijah to hide by the brook Cherith. Ravens miraculously bring him food, and he drinks from the brook until it dries up due to the drought.

3. The Widow of Zarephath (I Kings 17:8-16)

God sends Elijah to Zarephath, where a widow provides him with food, even though she only has a small amount of flour and oil left. Elijah promises that her supplies will not run out, and indeed, God miraculously sustains them throughout the drought.

4. Elijah Raises the Widow's Son (I Kings 17:17-24)

The widow's son falls ill and dies. Elijah prays to God, and the boy is miraculously raised from the dead. This event affirms the widow's belief that Elijah is truly a man of God.

Summary of I Kings 18

I Kings 18 continues the story of Elijah and features a dramatic showdown between Elijah and the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, demonstrating God's power over the false god Baal.

5. Elijah Confronts Ahab (I Kings 18:1-19)

After three years of drought, God instructs Elijah to present himself to Ahab and announce that rain is coming. Elijah meets Obadiah, a faithful servant of God, and tells him to inform Ahab of his presence.

Ahab accuses Elijah of causing trouble in Israel, but Elijah counters that it is Ahab's idolatry that has brought disaster.

6. The Contest on Mount Carmel (I Kings 18:20-40)

Elijah challenges Ahab and the prophets of Baal to a contest on Mount Carmel to prove who is the true God. The people of Israel gather, and Elijah sets the terms: each side will prepare a sacrifice, and the god who answers by fire is the true God.

The 450 prophets of Baal call on their god all day with no response. Elijah mocks them, and then prepares his own sacrifice.

After praying to God, fire miraculously falls from heaven and consumes the sacrifice, the wood, the stones, and even the water that had been poured over the altar.

The people of Israel acknowledge the Lord as the true God, and Elijah commands the people to seize the prophets of Baal, who are then executed.

7. The End of the Drought (I Kings 18:41-46)

Elijah tells Ahab to prepare for rain. Elijah prays on the mountain, and after a series of prayers, a small cloud appears. Soon, a heavy rain falls, ending the drought.

Elijah, filled with God's power, runs ahead of Ahab's chariot all the way to Jezreel.

Conclusion

I Kings 17-18 highlight Elijah's role as a powerful prophet of God, showcasing God's miraculous provision during the drought and His decisive victory over the false prophets of Baal. These chapters emphasize God's supremacy over false gods and sets the stage for further confrontations between Elijah and the corrupt rulers of Israel.

C. Ahab's Rule – I Kings 19:1–22:53

King Ahab, the seventh king of Israel, ruled during a period of significant political and spiritual turmoil. His reign is extensively covered in 1 Kings, especially from chapters 19 to 22, where his interactions with the prophet Elijah, his military campaigns, and his ultimate downfall are detailed. Ahab's reign is marked by idolatry, moral failure, and a series of confrontations with God's prophets.

1. Ahab's Conflict with Elijah After Mount Carmel (I Kings 19:1-18)

Elijah Flees from Jezebel: After the dramatic victory over the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, Ahab informs his wife, Jezebel, of what had happened. Jezebel, a devoted follower of Baal, vows to kill Elijah. In fear, Elijah flees to the wilderness.

God's Care for Elijah: Despite Elijah's discouragement and flight, God sustains him and leads him to Mount Horeb (Sinai), where God speaks to Elijah in a "still small voice." God reassures Elijah, telling him to anoint new leaders, including Elisha as his prophetic successor, and reveals that 7,000 in Israel have remained faithful to God.

2. Ahab's War with Ben-Hadad of Aram (I Kings 20:1-43)

First Attack by Ben-Hadad

Ben-Hadad, king of Aram (Syria), besieges Samaria and demands tribute from Ahab, including his wives, children, and wealth. Ahab initially agrees, but when Ben-Hadad demands more, Ahab refuses.

Divine Intervention and Victory

Despite his idolatry, God sends a prophet to Ahab, promising victory over Ben-Hadad to demonstrate God's power. Ahab wins a decisive victory against the Arameans in two major battles.

Ahab Spares Ben-Hadad

After the second victory, Ahab captures Ben-Hadad but makes a treaty with him instead of killing him, as God had commanded.

A prophet, disguised as a wounded soldier, rebukes Ahab for sparing Ben-Hadad, foretelling that Ahab's life would be taken in exchange for Ben-Hadad's.

3. Ahab and Naboth's Vineyard (I Kings 21:1-29)

Coveting Naboth's Vineyard: Ahab desires a vineyard owned by Naboth, a righteous man in Jezreel. When Naboth refuses to sell or trade his inheritance, Ahab sulks and refuses to eat.

Jezebel's Plot: Jezebel devises a plot to falsely accuse Naboth of blasphemy and treason. Naboth is unjustly stoned to death, and Ahab takes possession of the vineyard.

Elijah's Condemnation: God sends Elijah to confront Ahab, proclaiming that Ahab's dynasty will be destroyed, and that dogs will lick up his blood, as they had with Naboth.

Elijah also foretells a violent death for Jezebel. Ahab, struck by the severity of the prophecy, humbles himself and fasts, which leads God to delay the destruction of his family until after Ahab's death.

4. Ahab's Final Campaign and Death (I Kings 22:1-40)

Alliance with Jehoshaphat: After three years of peace, Ahab seeks to reclaim Ramoth-Gilead from the Arameans. He forms an alliance with Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, and they plan a joint military campaign.

Consulting the Prophets: Ahab gathers about 400 prophets, who all predict victory. However, Jehoshaphat asks if there is a prophet of the Lord to consult. Ahab reluctantly summons Micaiah, a prophet known for delivering unfavorable messages.

Micaiah's Prophecy: Micaiah initially mocks the other prophets but eventually delivers a true prophecy, predicting disaster for Ahab. He reveals a vision of God sending a lying spirit to deceive Ahab's prophets, leading him to his death. Ahab ignores the warning and imprisons Micaiah.

Ahab's Death in Battle: In an attempt to avoid Micaiah's prophecy, Ahab disguises himself in battle while Jehoshaphat wears his royal robes. Despite the precautions, Ahab is struck by an arrow. Mortally wounded, Ahab dies later that evening. His body is brought back to Samaria, and as prophesied, dogs lick up his blood where his chariot is washed.

5. Ahab's Legacy and Conclusion (I Kings 22:41-53)

Reign of Ahab's Son: Ahab's son, Ahaziah, succeeds him as king of Israel. Ahaziah continues in the idolatrous practices of his parents, serving Baal and provoking God's anger.

Ahab's Evil Legacy: Ahab is remembered as one of the most wicked kings of Israel. His idolatry, spurred by his marriage to Jezebel, led Israel deeper into the worship of Baal. His reign was marked by constant conflict with God's prophets, particularly Elijah.

Conclusion of Ahab's Rule

Ahab's reign was one of spiritual decline and political instability for Israel. Despite military victories, his failure to lead Israel in the worship of the true God and his reliance on Jezebel's influence led to his downfall. His reign ended in disaster, fulfilling the prophecies of Elijah and Micaiah, and his legacy continued to haunt Israel through his descendants.

Lessons

1. The Consequences of Poor Leadership (I Kings 12)

Application: The story of Rehoboam, Solomon's son, refusing to listen to wise counsel and instead following the advice of his peers, teaches the importance of seeking and applying wisdom in leadership decisions.

Leaders, whether in the family, community, or workplace, should listen to experienced voices and consider the broader impact of their choices. Ignoring wise counsel can lead to division, just as Rehoboam's decision caused the split of Israel into two kingdoms.

Takeaway: Consider the advice you receive carefully, especially when it comes from those with wisdom and experience. Humility in leadership is key to maintaining unity.

2. The Power of Faithful Obedience (I Kings 17-18)

Application: The account of the prophet Elijah, particularly during the drought and his confrontation with the prophets of Baal, illustrates the power of faithful obedience to God even in times of opposition.

Elijah trusted God during a famine and boldly stood for God's truth despite being outnumbered. His obedience and faith led to God's miraculous intervention, providing food during the famine and fire on Mount Carmel.

Takeaway: Trust in God's provision and timing, even when circumstances seem overwhelming. Obedience to God brings about His intervention in powerful ways.

Both of these lessons highlight the importance of wise leadership and faithfulness to God in difficult times.