MPV Commentary
Read the modernized Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary, aligned with each Bible book and chapter, in clear, updated English.
Currently viewing commentary for 1 Kings 12
Read the modernized Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary, aligned with each Bible book and chapter, in clear, updated English.
Currently viewing commentary for 1 Kings 12
20-24. When all Israel heard that Jeroboam had returned, Rehoboam decided to assert his authority by leading a large force into the disaffected provinces. However, the revolt of the ten tribes was complete when the prophet Shemaiah ordered, in the Lord's name, an abandonment of any hostile measures against the revolutionists. The army, overawed by the divine prohibition, dispersed, and the king was forced to submit.
25. Jeroboam rebuilt Shechem, a city destroyed by Abimelech (Jud 9:1-49). He also restored Penuel, a ruined city with a tower (Jud 8:9), east of Jordan on the north bank of the Jabbok. This strategic location made it an important fortress to secure his frontier.
26-32. Jeroboam thought to himself, "Now the kingdom will return to the house of David." However, instead of relying on God's protection, he introduced significant changes to the country's religious practices. He claimed these changes were necessary to save the people from the trouble and expense of a distant journey to Jerusalem.
To achieve this, Jeroboam erected two golden calves as symbols of the true God. One was placed at Dan in the northern part of his kingdom; the other at Beth-el, which was visible from Jerusalem. The latter location was more frequented by the people, who would travel there to worship before one of these idols (Jer 48:13; Am 4:4-5; 5:5; Ho 5:8; 10:8). By doing this, Jeroboam set up a form of idolatrous worship and departed from the place where God had chosen to put His name.
Furthermore, he changed the feast of tabernacles from the fifteenth day of the seventh month to the fifteenth day of the eighth month. Although he claimed this was necessary due to the later harvest in the northern parts of his kingdom, it's clear that his real intention was to eradicate the old association with this joyful festival.
31. Jeroboam appointed priests from among the lowest members of society, as the Levites refused to participate. He himself assumed the role of high priest at least during the great festivals, likely inspired by the Egyptian king who combined royal and sacred offices.