The Kings of Israel
The Kings of Israel was taught by Dr. James Modlish

Lesson Sixteen
Abijah
(I Kings 15:1-8 - 2 Chron. 13)

Introduction:
Abijah, the son of Rehoboam, follows his father in ruling over the southern kingdom for three years. Even though his reign is short, some significant events take place during his tenure.

I. The Difficulty of the Imperfect Heart – I Kings 15:3

Even though we all have heart trouble (Jer. 17:9), there are some indicators in Abijah’s life which help us understand which way our heart is leaning.

A. His toleration of evil – I Kings 15:3
The primary sins of his father Rehoboam are listed in I Kings 14:23,24 as idolatry and the toleration of sodomy.

B. His desire to make a name for himself – II Chron. 13:3

He chooses to go to war when he is outnumbered two to one, which is no problem when God is involved, but there is no indication that God had given any direction to engage in this conflict. In fact, in the days of Rehoboam God cautioned against a civil war. (I Kings 13:22-24) The New Testament application is clearly presented in I Cor. 1:29.

C. His talk is absent the walk – II Chron. 13:4-12

The speech sounds terrific, but we have already been instructed concerning the condition of his heart. Therefore, the only conclusion we can draw is that this entire dialogue is full of hypocrisy. The Abijahs of the world would do well to consider the words of Jesus in Matt. 7:1-5. This is a classic case of having “a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.” (II Tim. 3:5)

II. The Temptation of Presumption – II Chron.13:13-20

David understood what Abijah didn't. (Ps.19:13) Even though there was an issue of “relative righteousness” at stake (13:18), I Kings 15:4 makes it clear that the primary reason for victory was for David’s sake!

Sometimes we presume that God is blessing us when in fact what He is honoring is His Word!

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