How can we avoid repeating Jeroboam's mistakes in our own lives today? Jeroboam’s Fatal Choices • 2 Kings 14:24 sums it up: “And he did evil in the sight of the LORD and did not turn away from all the sins of Jeroboam son of Nebat, which he had caused Israel to commit.” • He forged new “gods” to keep people from traveling to Jerusalem (1 Kings 12:28). • He set up an unauthorized priesthood (1 Kings 13:33–34). • He ignored repeated prophetic warnings (1 Kings 13; 14:1–16). • He let fear of losing power eclipse fear of the LORD. Roots Behind the Collapse • Fear over faith—he trusted political calculation more than God’s promise (1 Kings 11:38). • Convenience over covenant—“Going up to Jerusalem is too much for you” (1 Kings 12:28). • Popularity over purity—he kept people happy even when it meant sin. • Pride over obedience—he assumed he could redefine worship on his own terms. Modern Echoes of Jeroboam’s Sins • Reshaping worship to fit preferences rather than Scripture. • Treating church involvement as optional when it feels “too much” or inconvenient. • Elevating personal success, comfort, or cultural trends above wholehearted devotion. • Dismissing biblical counsel that challenges our plans. Practical Safeguards to Stay Off Jeroboam’s Path 1. Anchor every belief and practice in the Word—test everything (Acts 17:11). 2. Submit to God-ordained authority within a local, Bible-teaching church (Hebrews 13:17). 3. Keep short accounts with God—repent quickly when convicted (1 John 1:9). 4. Cultivate humble accountability—invite trusted believers to speak into your life (Proverbs 27:17). 5. Prioritize God’s presence over personal convenience—worship even when it costs (Psalm 122:1). 6. Trust the LORD to secure your future instead of manipulating circumstances (Proverbs 3:5-6). Verses to Keep Close • 1 Kings 12:28 — “After seeking advice, the king made two golden calves and said to the people, ‘Going up to Jerusalem is too much for you…’” • 1 Corinthians 10:12 — “So the one who thinks he is standing firm should be careful not to fall.” • Deuteronomy 13:4 — “You are to follow the LORD your God, and fear Him. Keep His commandments and listen to His voice; serve Him and hold fast to Him.” • Hebrews 12:1–2 — “…let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus…” • Matthew 6:33 — “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.” Stay mindful of Jeroboam’s story, and let Scripture, not fear or convenience, set the course of your life. |
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