Jeroboam, the son of Nebat, is a prominent figure in the history of Israel, known for his role as the first king of the northern kingdom after the division of the united monarchy. His reign and actions are significant in understanding the judgments of God upon individuals, as recorded in the Scriptures.

Background and Rise to Power

Jeroboam was an Ephraimite, a servant of King Solomon, and a man of standing. Recognized for his industrious nature, Solomon appointed him over the labor force of the house of Joseph (1 Kings 11:28). However, due to Solomon's idolatry and the subsequent divine judgment, the prophet Ahijah foretold that Jeroboam would rule over ten tribes of Israel (1 Kings 11:29-31).

Idolatry and Sin

Upon ascending to the throne, Jeroboam's fear of losing his kingdom led him to commit grave sins. He established two golden calves in Bethel and Dan, declaring them as the gods who brought Israel out of Egypt (1 Kings 12:28-30). This act of idolatry was a direct violation of the first and second commandments and set a precedent for future kings of Israel, leading the nation into sin.

Divine Judgment Pronounced

God's judgment upon Jeroboam was swift and severe. Through the prophet Ahijah, God declared that because Jeroboam had done more evil than all who lived before him, leading Israel into sin, his dynasty would be cut off. Ahijah prophesied that Jeroboam's house would be destroyed, and his descendants would be wiped out (1 Kings 14:9-11).

Fulfillment of Judgment

The fulfillment of this judgment came during the reign of Jeroboam's son, Nadab. Baasha, from the tribe of Issachar, conspired against Nadab, killed him, and destroyed the entire house of Jeroboam, leaving not a single male alive, as foretold by the prophet (1 Kings 15:28-30).

Lessons from Jeroboam's Judgment

Jeroboam's life serves as a solemn reminder of the consequences of disobedience and idolatry. His actions not only brought about his downfall but also set a destructive path for the nation of Israel. The judgment upon Jeroboam underscores the seriousness with which God views idolatry and the leading of others into sin. The narrative of Jeroboam is a testament to the righteousness and justice of God, who holds individuals accountable for their actions and the influence they wield over others.1 Kings 13:4
And it came to pass, when king Jeroboam heard the saying of the man of God, which had cried against the altar in Bethel, that he put forth his hand from the altar, saying, Lay hold on him. And his hand, which he put forth against him, dried up, so that he could not pull it in again to him.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Sins of Communities Noted and Punished.
... intelligent reader to his own reflections upon them ... and the degrading, and even
desolating judgments of heaven ... The character of individuals is not to be judged ...
/.../lee/sermons on various important subjects/sermon xxix the sins of.htm

Of Civil Government.
... venally prostitute all rights, privileges, judgments, and enactments ... and the beast
that are upon the ground ... learn not to consider the individuals themselves, but ...
/.../the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 20 of civil government.htm

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