2 Chronicles 10: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Chronicles 10 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

In 2 Chronicles chapter 10, the narrative details the pivotal moment of Rehoboam's ascension to the throne of Israel and the subsequent division of the kingdom. After the death of Solomon, Rehoboam is approached by the people of Israel who request relief from the heavy burdens imposed by Solomon's reign. Seeking counsel, Rehoboam initially consults the elders who served his father, who advise him to respond kindly and alleviate the people's oppression. However, he is swayed by the advice of his younger peers, who encourage him to be even more demanding than his father. This decision leads to a stark rejection from the northern tribes of Israel, resulting in the split between the northern kingdom, led by Jeroboam, and the southern kingdom of Judah, which remains loyal to Rehoboam.

Key verse

“The king answered them roughly; and king Rehoboam abandoned the counsel of the old men,”
2 Chronicles 10:13 (WEB)

Outline

2 Chronicles 10:1–3 Rehoboam's Ascension
2 Chronicles 10:4–5 The People's Request
2 Chronicles 10:6–8 Seeking Counsel
2 Chronicles 10:9–11 Advice from Young Men
2 Chronicles 10:12–15 Rehoboam's Response
2 Chronicles 10:16–17 Israel's Rejection
2 Chronicles 10:18–19 Violence and Escape

Discussion questions

In v4, what do the people request from Rehoboam regarding their service?
Why does Rehoboam consider the counsel of the young men in v9?
Rehoboam's response in vv. 13-14: what does it suggest about his leadership style?
The phrase 'I will add to your yoke' in v11: what implications does this have for the people's loyalty?
When have you faced a choice like Rehoboam's in v14, prioritizing power over people's needs?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Chronicles 10: 1 Kings 12, 1 Kings 11, Ezekiel 37.

Before next time: read 2 Chronicles 11.