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Jeroboam — A Usurper Of God's Authority

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Categories: Church of Christ Bulletin Articles

One of several rulers of the Northern Kingdom of Israel was Jeroboam (926-909 B.C.). He is a prime example of one who usurped God’s authority and as a result, caused Israel to sin against the Lord (1 Kings 14:16; cf. 1 Kings 12:30 ; 1 Kings 13:34; 1 Kings 15:30; 1 Kings 15:34; 1 Kings 16:2).

His unauthorized activities are listed in 1 Kings 12:

  • Corrupted the authorized worship of Jehovah through his “innovation” of setting up golden calves as objects of divine adoration and sacrifice (1 Kings 12:28 ; 1 Kings 12:32; compare with Exodus 32:4; Exodus 32:8).
  • Changed the authorized place of service from Jerusalem to the cities of Bethel and Dan – all under the cloak of “convenience” (1 Kings 12:27-30).
  • Appointed priests from among tribes other than authorized tribe of Levi (1 Kings 12:31; cf. Numbers 3:5-10; Hebrews 7:14).
  • Changed the time of the feast of tabernacles from the seventh month, fifteenth day, to the eight month, fifteenth day (1 Kings 12:32; cf. Leviticus 23:33-34).

Let us further note that the source of this unauthorized worship came from Jeroboam’s “own heart” (1 Kings 12:33). As a result of his disobedience, God’s judgment was brought to pass as Jeroboam was defeated in battle by Abijah, the son of Rehoboam (2 Chronicles 13:1-20).

The bottom line is this: Anyone who usurps God’s authority, will end up facing God’s wrath and judgment (cf. Romans 2:5; Romans 2:8-9). Let us then take heed, lest we fall under the same condemnation as Jeroboam.

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