Untitled Sermon (22)

Divided We Stand: God’s Glory in Our Disagreement

Bible Passage: 1 Kings 12

Summary: 1 Kings 12 narrates the division of the Kingdom of Israel following King Solomon's reign, highlighting the consequences of turning away from God and pursuing selfish ambitions. Rehoboam's response to the people reveals a crucial choice between seeking God's will for the glory of the nation or prioritizing personal power.

Application: This passage challenges Christians to reflect on their motivations and choices in leadership and community relationships, emphasizing that true success aligns with God's glory rather than personal ambition. It serves as a reminder that when we seek His will, even in conflict, God can bring about unity for His purpose.

Teaching: The sermon elucidates that God's will is often counter to human wisdom and ambition. It teaches us that God's glory should be our primary pursuit, guiding our decisions, especially in leadership and communal situations. We learn that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and impacts our choices greatly.

How this passage could point to Christ: Throughout Scripture, God’s overarching plan is the redemption of humanity through Jesus Christ, who represents unity and reconciliation. Just as the division of Israel displayed the consequences of rejecting God's design, Christ embodies the fulfillment of God's glory in bringing together all people under His lordship, restoring what was lost due to sin.

Big Idea: God's glory is paramount; we must seek His will even amidst division to fulfill our purpose as His people.

Recommended Study: As you prepare, consider diving into the socio-political context of ancient Israel’s monarchy and the historical implications of Rehoboam's decisions. Use Logos to explore commentaries that discuss the nuances of leadership failures in this narrative and how they relate to contemporary church leadership. Pay attention to exegetical resources that illuminate the theological implications of 'glory' in the context of God's overarching plan.

1. Rehoboam's Reckless Request

1 Kings 12:1-11

Perhaps you might explore how Rehoboam's reliance on human advice, rather than seeking God's wisdom, led to destructive decisions. There's a lesson here in the pursuit of God's will for His glory rather than self-preservation or ambition. Highlight how Jesus, in contrast, fulfills God's glory by listening and obeying God's plan, emphasizing our call to pursue God's wisdom in our decisions.

2. Realizing God's Promise

1 Kings 12:12-15

You could delve into the fulfillment of God's word through what seems like a disastrous circumstance. Although Rehoboam's decision appears divisive, God's sovereignty is displayed. The big idea could be explored by examining how, through Jesus, God's promises are fulfilled and point us towards trusting His plan for His glory, even in difficult circumstances.

3. Redemption through Realignment

1 Kings 12:16-24

Consider how the division of the kingdom ultimately set the stage for Israel's longing for a Messiah, fulfilled in Christ, who unites. This serves as a pointer to Christian unity. In a world full of division, suggest that we should strive for unity under Christ's lordship, emphasizing our ultimate purpose to glorify God even in times of discord.