Rehoboam’s Choice: Finding Security in God, Not Walls

Executive Summary ✨

2 Chronicles 11 unveils Rehoboam’s reign after the kingdom’s split. Focused on fortifying Judah, rather than seeking divine reconciliation, Rehoboam constructs an impressive network of fortified cities, a testament to his political acumen and fear of invasion. Yet, the narrative subtly underscores a misplaced reliance on earthly power. This chapter serves as a potent reminder for us today. True security and strength lie not in material defenses but in unwavering faith and adherence to God’s commandments. It’s a lesson on the fragility of human efforts when divorced from divine guidance. Even in times of upheaval, true believers find refuge in the eternal, not the temporal. This chapter presents Rehoboam’s initial, flawed attempts at securing his kingdom, subtly prompting us to reflect on our own foundations of security in a world perpetually in flux.

Rehoboam, son of Solomon, inherits a divided kingdom. His response to this fracture is not repentance and seeking God’s face, but to build walls, literally and figuratively. 2 Chronicles 11 details the beginning of his reign, showcasing his military and strategic planning. This commentary explores the deeper theological implications of his choices.

Commentary Sections 📖

2 Chronicles 11:1 (KJV)

And when Rehoboam was come to Jerusalem, he gathered of the house of Judah and Benjamin an hundred and fourscore thousand chosen men, which were warriors, to fight against Israel, that he might bring the kingdom again to Rehoboam.

Spiritual Commentary: Rehoboam’s immediate reaction is to reclaim the kingdom through force. This highlights a reliance on earthly power rather than divine will. The “chosen men” represent a significant military force, indicating Rehoboam’s determination to restore his kingdom through war. This underscores a critical contrast to David, who often sought God’s guidance *before* engaging in battle. We, too, are often tempted to solve problems with our own strength, forgetting the power of prayer and submission to God’s plan. Let us remember the Psalmist’s words: “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the Lord our God” (Psalm 20:7).

2 Chronicles 11:2-4 (KJV)

But the word of the Lord came to Shemaiah the man of God, saying, Speak unto Rehoboam, and to all the house of Judah and Benjamin, and to the remnant of the people, saying, Thus saith the Lord, Ye shall not go up, nor fight against your brethren: return every man to his house: for this thing is done of me. And they obeyed the words of the Lord, and returned from going against Jeroboam.

Spiritual Commentary: God intervenes through the prophet Shemaiah, preventing a civil war. This divine intervention demonstrates God’s sovereignty and His desire for peace and unity among His people, even when division seems inevitable. God states explicitly, “this thing is done of me,” affirming His role in the kingdom’s division. This teaches us to discern God’s hand even in situations that seem negative or undesirable. The obedience of Rehoboam and the people is commendable; they submit to God’s will despite their initial desires. “Μὴ γένεσθαι τὸ θέλημά μου, ἀλλὰ τὸ σόν” (Mē genesthai to thelēma mou, alla to son) – “Not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42). This obedience, though perhaps reluctant, saved countless lives and demonstrated a level of faith, albeit nascent.

2 Chronicles 11:5-12 (KJV)

And Rehoboam dwelt in Jerusalem, and built cities for defence in Judah. He built even Bethlehem, and Etam, and Tekoa, and Bethzur, and Shoco, and Adullam, and Gath, and Mareshah, and Ziph, and Adoraim, and Lachish, and Azekah, and Zorah, and Aijalon, and Hebron, which are in Judah and in Benjamin fenced cities. And he fortified the strong holds, and put captains in them, and store of victual, and of oil and wine. And in every several city he put shields and spears, and made them exceeding strong, having Judah and Benjamin on his side.

Spiritual Commentary: Instead of focusing on reconciliation or seeking God’s guidance for leadership, Rehoboam channels his energies into building defensive structures. This is a tangible manifestation of his fear and lack of trust in God’s protection. The detailed list of fortified cities reveals the extent of Rehoboam’s efforts. Bethlehem, the future birthplace of Christ, is among the cities fortified, an ironic detail considering its later significance as a place of peace and salvation. The focus on physical defense, while prudent from a worldly perspective, highlights a spiritual deficiency. We are reminded that true security comes from God. Saint Athanasius reminds us, “Ὁ γὰρ ἐν τῷ Θεῷ ἐλπίζων, οὐ φοβηθήσεται” (Ho gar en tō Theō elpizōn, ou phobēthēsetai) – “For he who hopes in God shall not be afraid” (Athanasius, *De Incarnatione*, 32). We can learn from this and instead of relying solely on our own abilities, we should seek God’s guidance and protection.

2 Chronicles 11:13-17 (KJV)

And the priests and the Levites that were in all Israel resorted to him out of all their coasts. For the Levites left their suburbs and their possessions, and came to Judah and Jerusalem: for Jeroboam and his sons had cast them off from executing the priest’s office unto the Lord: And he ordained him priests for the high places, and for the devils, and for the calves which he had made. And after them out of all the tribes of Israel such as set their hearts to seek the Lord God of Israel came to Jerusalem, to sacrifice unto the Lord God of their fathers. So they strengthened the kingdom of Judah, and made Rehoboam the son of Solomon strong, three years: for three years they walked in the way of David and Solomon.

Spiritual Commentary: This section marks a turning point. The priests and Levites, faithful to God, migrate from the northern kingdom to Judah due to Jeroboam’s idolatry. This influx of faithful individuals strengthens Rehoboam’s kingdom spiritually. Jeroboam’s actions, appointing his own priests and creating idols, represent a complete rejection of God’s covenant. The devotion of those who “set their hearts to seek the Lord” provides a stark contrast. Their commitment to true worship brought strength and stability to Rehoboam’s reign, albeit temporarily. The deuterocanonical book of Wisdom states, “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people” (Proverbs 14:34). This period of faithfulness highlights the crucial role of righteous leadership and the importance of maintaining true worship. For three years Rehoboam followed in his father’s footsteps. These verses highlight the importance of surrounding oneself with the righteous.

2 Chronicles 11:18-23 (KJV)

And Rehoboam took him Mahalath the daughter of Jerimoth the son of David to wife, and Abihail the daughter of Eliab the son of Jesse; Which bare him children; Jeush, and Shemariah, and Zaham. And after her he took Maachah the daughter of Absalom; which bare him Abijah, and Attai, and Ziza, and Shelomith. And Rehoboam loved Maachah the daughter of Absalom above all his wives and his concubines: (for he took eighteen wives, and threescore concubines;) and begat twenty and eight sons, and threescore daughters. And Rehoboam made Abijah the son of Maachah the chief, to be ruler among his brethren: for he thought to make him king. And he dealt wisely, and dispersed of all his children throughout all the countries of Judah and Benjamin, unto every fenced city: and he gave them victual in abundance. And he desired many wives.

Spiritual Commentary: This section highlights Rehoboam’s polygamy and his favoritism towards Maachah, the daughter of Absalom. This detail foreshadows potential future conflicts and instability due to divided loyalties. While Rehoboam is described as acting “wisely” in dispersing his sons and providing for them, this action is motivated by political strategy rather than genuine concern for their well-being. His large number of wives and concubines stands in stark contrast to the godly kings who sought God’s guidance in all aspects of their lives. St. Paul implores us: “Let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband” (1 Corinthians 7:2). The emphasis on political maneuvering hints at a lack of spiritual depth and a continuing reliance on earthly strategies rather than divine providence.

Subtopic: The Significance of Fortified Cities 🏰

Rehoboam’s focus on building fortified cities provides valuable insights into his reign and priorities. These cities weren’t merely defensive structures; they were centers of administration, commerce, and social life.

• Strategic Defense: Fortifications provided crucial protection against potential invasions, reflecting a pragmatic approach to security.
• Economic Centers: Many of these cities were strategically located to control trade routes and agricultural areas, contributing to the kingdom’s economic stability.
• Political Control: By placing captains and garrisons in these cities, Rehoboam strengthened his political control over Judah and Benjamin.
• Psychological Impact: The presence of strong fortifications likely instilled a sense of security and confidence in the populace.
• Short-Sightedness: Ultimately, reliance on physical defenses without a corresponding spiritual foundation proved insufficient.
• Trust in God: We are called to trust in God, not in earthly protections.

FAQ ❓

Q: Why did God allow the kingdom to be divided?

A: The division of the kingdom was a direct consequence of Solomon’s disobedience and idolatry (1 Kings 11:9-13). God, in His justice, allowed this division as a form of judgment. However, even in judgment, God’s mercy is evident.

Q: What does Rehoboam’s choice to fortify cities instead of seeking God teach us?

A: Rehoboam’s choice highlights the human tendency to rely on earthly solutions rather than seeking divine guidance. It serves as a cautionary tale against placing our trust in material possessions or human strategies, reminding us that true security lies in a relationship with God.

Q: How can we apply the lessons of 2 Chronicles 11 to our lives today?

A: We can learn to prioritize spiritual growth and seeking God’s will above material pursuits and worldly strategies. We must also be wary of placing our trust solely in earthly solutions. Remembering that God should be the foundation of all that we do, will provide lasting security.

Conclusion ✨

Rehoboam’s actions in 2 Chronicles 11, while seemingly pragmatic, reveal a deeper spiritual deficiency. His focus on fortifying Judah instead of seeking divine guidance underscores the futility of relying solely on earthly strength. This chapter serves as a poignant reminder that true security and prosperity are rooted in faith, obedience, and a constant seeking of God’s will. Just as the priests and Levites strengthened Judah through their devotion, we, too, must prioritize our relationship with God above all else. The lesson is clear: true strength lies not in walls and armies, but in unwavering faith and a heart devoted to the Lord. Let us strive to build our lives on the unshakeable foundation of God’s love and guidance, rather than the shifting sands of worldly security.

Tags

Rehoboam, Judah, Fortification, Kingdom Division, Jeroboam, Shemaiah, Priests, Levites, Idolatry, Obedience

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Explore Rehoboam’s reign in 2 Chronicles 11. Discover the spiritual lessons behind fortifying Judah and the importance of seeking God’s guidance.