2 Chronicles 11: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Chronicles 11 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

In 2 Chronicles 11, the chapter focuses on the reign of Rehoboam following the division of the kingdom of Israel. After losing ten tribes to Jeroboam, Rehoboam fortifies the cities in Judah and Benjamin to secure his rule. He attempts to consolidate his power and maintain the loyalty of the remaining tribes.

Key verse

“After them, out of all the tribes of Israel, those who set their hearts to seek Yahweh, the God of Israel, came to Jerusalem to sacrifice to Yahweh, the God of their fathers.”
2 Chronicles 11:16 (WEB)

Outline

2 Chronicles 11:1–4 Rehoboam's Initial Plans for War
2 Chronicles 11:5–12 Fortifying Judah and Benjamin
2 Chronicles 11:13–17 Support from Priests and Levites
2 Chronicles 11:18–21 Rehoboam's Marriages and Family
2 Chronicles 11:22–23 Establishing His Sons

Discussion questions

In v2, who delivers Yahweh's word to Rehoboam?
What cities does Rehoboam build in vv. 6-10 to fortify his kingdom?
In v15, why does Rehoboam appoint priests for 'the high places'?
In v14, what might the Levites' departure from Israel signify about Jeroboam's leadership?
When have you had to set aside a conflict, like Rehoboam in v4?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Chronicles 11: 2 Chronicles 12, 1 Kings 12, 2 Chronicles 13.

Before next time: read 2 Chronicles 12.