1 Kings 12

Commentary

1 Kings 12 is a chapter that focuses on the division of the kingdom of Israel. After the death of King Solomon, his son Rehoboam is chosen to be the next king. However, the people of Israel are not happy with Rehoboam's decision to increase their taxes and labor, so they revolt and choose Jeroboam as their new king. This marks the beginning of the divided kingdom of Israel, with Rehoboam ruling over the southern kingdom of Judah and Jeroboam ruling over the northern kingdom of Israel. The chapter also highlights the consequences of the division of the kingdom. God sends a prophet to warn Rehoboam of the consequences of his decision to increase taxes and labor, and the prophet tells him that the kingdom will be divided. This prophecy is fulfilled when the people of Israel revolt and choose Jeroboam as their new king. The chapter also emphasizes the importance of following God's commands. Rehoboam's decision to increase taxes and labor is a direct violation of God's commands, and it leads to the division of the kingdom. This serves as a reminder to the reader that God's commands should be followed, and that disobedience will lead to consequences. Overall, 1 Kings 12 is a chapter that highlights the consequences of disobeying God's commands and the division of the kingdom of Israel. It serves as a reminder to the reader that God's commands should be followed, and that disobedience will lead to consequences.