Abijah Succeeds Rehoboam

II Chronicles 11:1–23
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Rehoboam had serious intention of quelling the revolt by force but was stopped by the Word of the Lord through the prophet Shemaiah. He then turns his attention to fortifying the cities, which were in existence before Rehoboam’s time. The purpose of Rehoboam rebuilding the cities (vv.6-10) was not to defend Judah from Israel or to keep in subjection the people of Judah, but to protect his small kingdom from an invasion from Egypt (12:10). 

The moment Jeroboam became king of the North he plunged into sin. He changed the symbols of worship, the center of worship, the priesthood, and the scheduled feasts (I Kings 12:25-33). As soon as these changes took place, the priests and Levities began to move to Judah where Jehovah was still worshiped.

The migration was not limited only to the Levites but included Loyalists of all tribes of Israel who desired to worship the Lord. Israel’s loss was Judah’s gain because the migration of those who loved Jehovah strengthened Judah for Rehoboam. Unfortunately, they too apparently apostatized after three years. Through Rehoboam’s second wife Maacah, Abijah was born, who was his father’s choice to succeed him as king, so he made him crown prince (v.20). He then dispersed all his sons throughout the country to maintain a firm grip on his kingdom.

Application

Rehoboam did a lot of things, but most of his work was temporary. What am I doing now that will last forever? Two things are eternal, the word of God and people. Brainstorm with my family as to ways we could better be investing our time and our money.