MPV Commentary

Refusing the Old Men's Counsel.

Rehoboam went to Shechem, where he was to be crowned king after his father Solomon's funeral and the period of public mourning had passed. The entire nation of Israel came to make him king, not to exercise their right of election as they had in the past (1 Samuel 10:19-21), but rather to reestablish the conditions under which their kings were subject. They wanted to hold Rehoboam accountable for his actions and ensure that he would rule justly.

Shechem was a central town, chosen for its importance and accessibility. The people's decision to gather there suggests they were determined to revolt against Rehoboam's rule. Jeroboam, who was present at the gathering (1 Kings 12:3), likely played a key role in organizing this event.

The people complained that Solomon had made their lives difficult with heavy taxation. They focused on the burdens of his reign rather than its benefits, such as peace and prosperity. Their grievances were primarily related to civil oppression, not idolatry, which they seemed to tolerate or even approve of.

Rehoboam took time to consider the people's demands, but he ultimately chose to follow the advice of his young companions, who urged him to take decisive action against the malcontents. This decision was likely influenced by their inexperience and lack of wisdom.

The king's response to the people's demands was harsh and dismissive. He threatened them with whips and scorpions (1 Kings 12:11), which were instruments used for punishing slaves. The people saw this as a sign of Rehoboam's weakness and inexperience, and they rejected his rule.

The king refused to listen to the people because their rebellion was ultimately driven by God's will (1 Kings 12:15). Rehoboam's lack of experience and wisdom in public affairs has been attributed to his secluded upbringing in the palace. His haughty response to the people's demands only fueled their discontent, leading to a quiet but decisive revolt.

The people's rejection of Rehoboam was so complete that he remained in Shechem, unaware of the extent of the rebellion until his tax collector was stoned to death. This event finally opened Rehoboam's eyes, and he fled to Jerusalem for safety.