1. In these verses Rehoboam sought "counsel" [advice] from 2 groups of people: the old men and the young men. 2. As a result of following unwise advice, Rehoboam made a decision that cost him dearly. 3. In our lesson we are emphasizing the importance of seeking wise advice. 4. We all need "counsel" [advice] from time to time. 5. It is extremely important for us: a. to go to the right sources for advice b. to carefully examine the advice that we receive from others. 6. Let us begin our study by examining . . . Discussion:
I. THE SITUATION THAT EXISTED
A. (9:30-31) After ruling Israel 40 years, Solomon died, and he was succeeded by his son Rehoboam. B. (10:1) The Israelites went to Shechem to make Rehoboam their king. C. (10:2) Jeroboam returned from Egypt (see 1 Kings 11:26-32, 40). D. (10:3-4) Jeroboam and the Israelites made a request of Rehoboam. E. (10:5) Rehoboam told them to return to him after 3 days.
II. (vs.6-11) TO SETTLE THIS SITUATION REHOBOAM SOUGHT COUNSEL
A. (vs.6-7) He asked the old men for their counsel, but he rejected it (vs.8a). B. (vs.8b-11) He asked the young men for their counsel, and they advised him to make the people's burdens even heavier. C. Did Rehoboam: 1. seek counsel from the Lord? 2. pray or consult a reliable prophet?
III. (vs.12-15) REHOBOAM RELATED HIS DECISION TO JEROBOAM AND THE ISRAELITES IV. (vs.16-19) REHOBOAM'S DECISION THAT WAS BASED ON UNWISE ADVICE COST HIM MUCH OF HIS KINGDOM Conclusion:
1. It is highly unlikely that we will ever find ourselves in the same situation that Rehoboam was in; however, we all occasionally need "counsel" [advice]. 2. It is extremely important for us: a. to go to the right sources for advice b. to carefully examine the advice that we receive from others. 3. Many times we make decisions based on advice that comes from other people. 4. If we receive unwise advice we may make unwise decisions and then take unwise courses of action (Proverbs 13:20). 5. Above all, let us seek counsel from the Lord (Proverbs 19:20-21; 3:5-6).
