The Carlisle independent., 1915-08-05

Idl gTOV. 1b.
 Solomon's kingdom though outward ly magnificent contained within 1t those germs of oppression, formal re- ligious observances and the lax ex- ample of an indulgent monarch which speedily led to it's disruption after his death. Forty years Solomon reigned, but the latter end of his life was none too peaceful. .'He loved many strange women" and This heart was not per feet with the Lord his God" Q1:1, 4. Rezon was his adversary" (11:25) and Jeroboam whom he at first sought to conciliate 11:26-28) was finally driven from the land (v. 40). Chapter eleven contains the prophecy of which this lesson is the fulfillment. And Rehoboam, his son, reigned in his stead" Q1:43).
 1. The Convention at Shechem, w. 1-5. This place has an important his tory beginning in the days of Abraham and Jacob. It was a city of the Levites and the place where Joshua gave his final charge (Josh, 24:1, 25). Abime- lech destroyed it though it was soon rebuilt. Here Israel gathered to con- firm Solomons son upon the throne. Jerusalem and Judea readily accepted Rehoboam as king, but the ten tribes hesitated and, according to one trans lation there was years delay during which time Jeroboam was sent for and certain reforms were formulated (v 9. Their charges were entirely selfish and made no reference to the rights of Jehovah nor offered any protest against the increasing idolatry. Be- fore allegiance was sworn Jeroboam (v. A and Rehoboam wisely asked for time to consider the request (v. ).
 II. Good Counsel Neglected, w. 6-12. Rehoboam came of bad stock (ch. 14:21), yet his first step was wise one. His name means "Enlarger of the people" but he sadly belied the same. Too long had he lived in the atmosphere of luxury and enervation. The northern tribes suffered greatly through taxation and shared none of the prosperity of Jerusalem. Solomon's 'yoke," like that of every earthly mon- arch, had been heavy (Matt, Il 29, 30). The counsel of the old men was good (v. D, it was kingly, manly.
 Jesus tells us that the greatest must be the servant of all and sets us the example himself (Matt. 20:2S). Reho- boam next consulted those of his own circle who were grown up with him. men of like position and passions, youths as inexperienced as himself who had no sympathy but were wild, conceited, overbearing, selfish. Reho- boam asked advice" (v. 6) of the old men, but asked for "counsel" (v. g of the young men, but in neither case is there any suggestion that God was consulted Games 1:5). These young men counseled boasting and burden some course which brought Rehoboam to grief. Oppression always results in rebellion, a fact that those who gov ern or employ others should ponder we'll. Rehoboams choice of counselors and his consequent course of action was the height of foolishness (Prov. 13:20).
 III. Bad Counsel Confirmed, w. 12-14. Jeroboams subsequent career confirms us in believing that he more than all others encouraged and fos- tered the division of the kingdom But he and the proud, foolish princeling were both only carrying out the word and will of Jehovah (v. 15; Ps 76:10). This does not, however, lessen his guilt or folly (Acts 2:23). Not content with declaring his acceptance of the evil counsel he spoke roughly (v l3) and this verse suggests to us that the old mems counsel' was known to the people, thereby aggravating his offense. s'Whom God wishes to destroy he first makes mad" Rough words wound or madden and, "by using soft words you may lead an elephant by hair" Not content to refuse Reho- boam threatens added burdens (v. IA.
 ". Conclusion. God turned away the kingdom from Solomon's house be- cause Solomon had turned away from God (ch. 11:9-11, 31, 33l. A true prophet foretold what would happen, the cause was from the Lord that he might perform his saying" (v. 15, of. 11:31. 32). God is constantly and it. orally fulfilling prophecy. Those which have been so fully and so minutely full filled are a warrant that in due time all will likewise come to pass" Re- hoboam is a lesson to the young men of today.
 Rehoboam is also lesson for pres. ent day fathers.
 Finally Rehoboam is a lesson to all who are set Tn authority. To close our ears to the cry of the needy; to forget our obligations to God and to men (Matt. 25), and to fail to see Gods pur. poses. prophecies and plans, inevitably courts disaster
 The coming king of kings who in full fillment of prophecy did come, and will come again, has yoke for his subjects which is easy His finger (v. 10) and hands were used in loving ministries and the only chastisement (v. ID he ever permits is that which proves us to be "sons," not slaves