The Abiding Gift of Prophecy

Prophetic Counsel Rejected

This counsel and assurance of protection and triumph, the Lord says, “I sent to you by My servants the prophets.” Verse 13. This great service of the prophets was given to Jeroboam, the first king of this new, independent kingdom. While in private life a servant of King Solomon, he had received through the prophet Ahijah a message from the Lord to the effect that he was destined to be king over the ten northern tribes of Solomon’s kingdom. This message was fulfilled to the letter. Thus far all was well, and Jeroboam began his reign with the brightest prospects that could possibly be desired. In the message sent through the prophet, the Lord said to Jeroboam: AGP 84.3

“I will take thee, and thou shalt reign according to all that thy soul desireth, and shalt be king over Israel. And it shall be, if thou wilt hearken unto all that I command thee, and wilt walk in My ways, and do that is right in My sight, to keep My statutes and My commandments, as David My servant did; that I will be with thee, and build thee a sure house, as I built for David, and will give Israel unto thee.” 1 Kings 11:37, 38.

What great honor was bestowed upon this man Jeroboam by the Majesty of heaven! What deep gratitude and genuine loyalty to the Giver such assurance called for from the king! But it was not thus appreciated. It is painful to read of the base ingratitude and disloyalty set down in the records of this man’s life after being crowned king. AGP 84.4

Having established his capital at Shechem in central Palestine, Jeroboam immediately proceeded to make provision for the religious worship of his subjects. He made two calves of gold, and set one up in Bethel and the other in Dan. To all the people he said, “Behold thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt.” 1 Kings 12:28. He built a high place of worship, made priests of the lowest of the people who were not of the tribe of Levi, and called the people together apparently for the dedication. Then he himself assumed the office of priest, and offered sacrifices to the calves he had made of gold. (See 1 Kings 12:31-33.) AGP 85.1

In the midst of these wicked proceedings, “there came a man of God out of Judah by the word of the Lord unto Bethel: and Jeroboam stood by the altar to burn incense.” 1 Kings 13:1. The prophet rebuked Jeroboam for his wickedness, and foretold sore punishment that would follow. At this the king stretched forth his hand, and in anger commanded his officers to lay hold of the prophet. Instantly his arm dried up, so that he could not bring it back to his side. The altar was rent by his side. These manifestations of God’s displeasure brought the king to serious thought. He then requested the prophet to pray for the restoration of his arm. The prophet prayed, and the arm was restored. (See 1 Kings 13:1-6.) AGP 85.2