2 Chronicles 10:6

Then King Rehoboam consulted with the elders who had served his father Solomon during his lifetime. "How do you advise me to respond to these people?" he asked.

Study Bible

Then King Rehoboam consulted with the elders
Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, ascended to the throne of Israel after Solomon's death. The act of consulting with elders was a common practice in ancient Israel, as elders were respected for their wisdom and experience. This consultation reflects a traditional approach to leadership, where seeking counsel from those with experience was valued. The elders had served under Solomon, who was renowned for his wisdom, suggesting they were well-versed in governance and the complexities of ruling a nation.

who had served his father Solomon during his lifetime.
These elders had firsthand experience with Solomon's reign, which was marked by prosperity and peace, largely due to Solomon's wisdom and the blessings of God. Their service under Solomon implies they were familiar with the policies and decisions that contributed to the kingdom's success. This historical context highlights the potential for continuity in leadership and policy, as these elders could provide insights based on Solomon's effective governance.

“How do you advise me to respond to these people?” he asked.
Rehoboam's question pertains to the request from the Israelites to lighten the heavy burden of labor and taxes imposed by Solomon. This moment is critical, as it reflects a pivotal decision point for Rehoboam's reign. The request from the people indicates a growing discontent that could lead to division. The elders' advice would be crucial in determining whether Rehoboam would maintain unity in the kingdom or face rebellion. This scenario echoes the biblical theme of wise counsel, as seen in Proverbs 11:14, which states, "Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety."

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rehoboam
The son of Solomon and the king of Israel at this time. His reign marks a significant turning point in Israel's history, leading to the division of the kingdom.

2. Elders
These were the experienced advisors who had served under King Solomon. They represent wisdom and continuity from Solomon's reign.

3. Solomon
The father of Rehoboam, known for his wisdom and wealth. His reign was marked by peace and prosperity, but also by heavy taxation and forced labor.

4. Israelites
The people of Israel who approached Rehoboam seeking relief from the heavy burdens imposed by Solomon.

5. Shechem
The place where Rehoboam went to be crowned king, and where the people of Israel gathered to make their request.

Teaching Points

The Value of Wise Counsel
Rehoboam's initial step to consult the elders shows the importance of seeking advice from those with experience and wisdom. In our lives, we should seek godly counsel when making significant decisions.

The Consequences of Ignoring Wisdom
Although Rehoboam sought advice, he ultimately ignored the elders' counsel. This decision led to the division of the kingdom. Ignoring wise counsel can lead to negative consequences in our lives.

Leadership and Servanthood
The elders advised Rehoboam to serve the people and speak kindly to them. True leadership involves serving others, a principle exemplified by Jesus Christ.

Generational Wisdom
The elders had served Solomon and carried forward the wisdom of the previous generation. We should value and learn from the experiences of those who have gone before us.

Decision-Making and Responsibility
Rehoboam's account reminds us that our decisions have far-reaching impacts. We must take responsibility for our choices and seek God's guidance in all things.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Rehoboam's decision to consult the elders, and how can we apply this in seeking advice in our own lives?

2. How does the advice given by the elders reflect biblical principles of leadership and servanthood?

3. In what ways can ignoring wise counsel affect our personal and spiritual lives, and how can we guard against this?

4. How does the account of Rehoboam illustrate the importance of generational wisdom, and how can we ensure we are learning from those who have gone before us?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a significant decision. How did seeking or ignoring wise counsel impact the outcome, and what biblical principles can you apply to future decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 12
This parallel account provides additional details about Rehoboam's decision-making process and the resulting division of the kingdom.

Proverbs 15:22
Highlights the importance of seeking wise counsel, which is relevant to Rehoboam's consultation with the elders.

James 1:5
Encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, a principle that Rehoboam could have benefited from.