ehoboam forbidden to war against Israel. (1-12) The priests
and Levites find refuge in Judah. (13-23)
Verses 1-12: A few good words might have prevented the rebellion of
Rehoboam's subjects; but all the force of his kingdom cannot
bring them back. And it is in vain to contend with the purpose
of God, when it is made known to us. Even those who are
destitute of true faith, will at times pay some regard to the
word of God, and be kept by it from wrong actions, to which they
are prone by nature.
Verses 13-23: When the priests and Levites came to Jerusalem, the
devout, pious Israelites followed them. Such as set their hearts
to seek the Lord God of Israel, left the inheritance of their
fathers, and went to Jerusalem, that they might have free access
to the altar of God, and be out of the temptation to worship the
calves. That is best for us, which is best for our souls; in all
our choices, religious advantages must be sought before all
outward conveniences. Where God's faithful priests are, his
faithful people should be. And when it has been proved that we
are willing to renounce our worldly interests, so far as we are
called to do so for the sake of Christ and his gospel, we have
good evidence that we are truly his disciples. And it is the
interest of a nation to protect religion and religious people.
ehoboam forbidden to war against Israel. (1-12) The priests
and Levites find refuge in Judah. (13-23)