What can we learn about unity from Israel gathering at Shechem? Gathered at Shechem—The Snapshot “Then Rehoboam went to Shechem, for all Israel had gone there to make him king.” (1 Kings 12:1) A Place Loaded with Covenant Memory - Shechem is where Abram first built an altar after entering Canaan (Genesis 12:6–7). - Jacob buried foreign idols under the oak at Shechem, symbolizing renewed allegiance to the LORD (Genesis 35:2–4). - Joshua gathered “all the tribes of Israel” at Shechem to renew covenant vows (Joshua 24:1, 25). Together, these moments frame Shechem as a physical reminder of God’s promises and Israel’s identity. Gathering there underlines unity around a shared story, not mere convenience. Unity Springs from Shared Covenant Identity - Common ancestry: the twelve tribes are one family (Genesis 49). - Common redemption: all tasted Passover deliverance (Exodus 12). - Common law: “One statute and one ordinance shall apply for you and for the foreigner” (Numbers 15:16). - Common worship: “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is One” (Deuteronomy 6:4). When we remember Who saved us and what He has spoken, we find we are already united; we simply stand in it. Leadership’s Role in Protecting Unity Rehoboam’s first duty was to listen. Before speaking, he was approached by the people (1 Kings 12:3–4). Lessons: - Listening honors the image of God in others (James 1:19). - Gentle answers maintain bonds; harsh words fracture them (Proverbs 15:1). - Servant-hearted leadership mirrors Christ, who “did not come to be served, but to serve” (Mark 10:45). Unity flourishes when leaders serve rather than demand. Warning from What Followed - Rehoboam rejected wise counsel (1 Kings 12:13–15). - Ten tribes revolted (1 Kings 12:16–20). The quick collapse shows how fragile unity is when covenant priorities are ignored. Psalm 133:1 celebrates brethren dwelling together; the rest of 1 Kings 12 shows how quickly that blessing is lost. Echoes in the New Testament - Jesus prayed “that they may all be one” (John 17:21). - The early church was “of one heart and soul” (Acts 4:32). - We are urged to be “eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit” (Ephesians 4:3). The Shechem principle carries forward: God’s people rally around His saving work and revealed Word. Living the Shechem Principle Today - Keep retelling the redemption story; it anchors identity. - Hold gatherings that center on Scripture, not personalities or programs. - Value listening before leading—seek counsel, especially from the wise and experienced. - Beware power plays or harshness; they fracture Christ’s body. - Let every decision ask, “Does this reflect our covenant with the Lord and each other?” Conclusion—Unity Guarded by Covenant Faithfulness Israel’s assembly at Shechem reminds us that true unity is covenant-based, memory-driven, and servant-led. When we gather around the Lord’s promises with humble hearts, we stand together; when we forget or forsake those promises, division swiftly follows. |
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