Background:
Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and grandson of David, became king of Judah following Solomon's death. His reign is marked by a significant event of apostasy and subsequent repentance, which is recorded in the biblical books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles. Rehoboam's account is a cautionary tale about the consequences of turning away from God and the mercy available through repentance.

Apostasy:
Rehoboam's apostasy began shortly after he ascended to the throne. Despite the wisdom and wealth inherited from Solomon, Rehoboam's reign was characterized by poor judgment and spiritual decline. The kingdom was already fragile due to Solomon's idolatry, and Rehoboam's harsh policies further alienated the northern tribes, leading to the division of the united monarchy (1 Kings 12:1-19).

In Judah, Rehoboam's apostasy became evident as he and the people abandoned the law of the LORD. "And Judah did evil in the sight of the LORD. By the sins they committed, they provoked His jealous anger more than their fathers had done" (1 Kings 14:22). Rehoboam allowed the establishment of high places, sacred stones, and Asherah poles, leading the people into idolatry and immorality (1 Kings 14:23-24).

Divine Judgment:
As a result of their unfaithfulness, God allowed Shishak, the king of Egypt, to invade Judah in the fifth year of Rehoboam's reign. Shishak captured the fortified cities of Judah and advanced on Jerusalem. This invasion was a direct consequence of Judah's abandonment of God's commandments (2 Chronicles 12:1-4).

The prophet Shemaiah delivered a message from the LORD to Rehoboam and the leaders of Judah: "You have abandoned Me; therefore, I now abandon you to Shishak" (2 Chronicles 12:5). This pronouncement of judgment was a wake-up call for Rehoboam and the leaders.

Repentance:
In response to the prophetic warning, Rehoboam and the leaders of Judah humbled themselves and acknowledged their sin. "The leaders of Israel and the king humbled themselves and said, 'The LORD is righteous'" (2 Chronicles 12:6). Their repentance was genuine, and God, in His mercy, relented from allowing complete destruction.

God's response to their humility was one of grace: "When the LORD saw that they had humbled themselves, the word of the LORD came to Shemaiah: 'They have humbled themselves; I will not destroy them but will grant them some deliverance. My wrath will not be poured out on Jerusalem through Shishak'" (2 Chronicles 12:7). Although Shishak plundered the treasures of the temple and the royal palace, Jerusalem was spared from total devastation.

Aftermath:
Rehoboam's repentance led to a temporary reprieve, but the spiritual decline had lasting effects. The kingdom of Judah continued to struggle with idolatry and unfaithfulness throughout Rehoboam's reign. Despite his initial repentance, Rehoboam's heart was not fully devoted to the LORD, as he failed to seek God wholeheartedly (2 Chronicles 12:14).

Rehoboam's account serves as a reminder of the importance of steadfast faithfulness to God and the dangers of turning away from His commandments. It also highlights God's readiness to forgive and restore those who genuinely repent and humble themselves before Him.