Again With the Idols

I know I’ve discussed this topic before, but in 1 Kings 12 it comes up again in a big way. It is the beginning of the demise of Israel as a unified nation. Hence forth in history as recorded in the Scriptures, Israel will be divided as it was before David came on the scene.

It’s tempting to think of that as a long time ago and that Israel as one kingdom lasted for a long time; however, Israel was unified for a mere 80 years. People who were born at the beginning of David’s rule may still have been alive to see the end under David’s grandson, Jeroboam. It had not even been two whole generations.

God divided Israel because of Solomon’s idolatry. We saw that in 1 Kings 11:29-33 as the prophet, Achiyah, explained to Jeroboam the reason for promoting him to king over 10 tribes. God also told Jeroboam that he and his descendants would rule for a long time IF they worshipped and obeyed God’s commands as David had. So after a time, God allowed for the separation between the northern 10 tribes and Judah. This area, to avoid confusion about what “Israel” we are talking about, became known as Ephraim-Israel. Ephraim was the dominant tribe in the north.

Unfortunately, Jeroboam did not do that. He made decisions based on the best way to promote himself, prevent a reunification of Israel by Solomon’s heir (Rehoboam), and to bolster his own power position. He went to an extreme. He established a new religion in the Ephraim-Israel. He built new temples, one in the northern part of his kingdom and one in the southern part. He established new festivals and holidays. He ordained priests that were not descendants of Levi. He made two golden calves just like Aaron had done during the exodus from Egypt. He even went as far as to tell the people that these golden calves had “brought you out of the land of Egypt.” Not God, but a couple of statues!

Before we get too critical of Jeroboam, we have to consider what idols we’ve systematically promoted over our worship of God. They may not be as blatant as gold calves, but they are there. It may be doing whatever it takes for a healthy lifestyle like eating and exercising. We may believe that education is supreme and lifts those who have advance degrees to a higher plane. For some others, it could be trusting other people or submitting to their wishes more than, or instead of, God. Also, politics, sports, and always having to be right misdirect our devotion to the only One who we should be worshipping.

Basically, putting any ideology, idea, behavior, or person before knowing and obeying God’s Word is idolatry. As we enter a new year, let’s evaluate what our focus for life is. Instead of making resolutions, be resolved in your pursuit of God.