Page 42 - Biblical Backgrounds student textbook

Study Section 7: Israel and the Divided Monarchy
(I Kings 12-22; 2 Kings; the Prophets)

7.1 Connect

Have you ever heard the saying, “You reap what you sow?” It comes from the idea that
farmers plant seeds and after the growing season is complete, the seeds grow into the very
plants that the farmer placed in the tilled soil. The Bible states the same idea in Galatians 6:
7-10:

8
7 Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who
sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the
9
Spirit reap eternal life. And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do
10
not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who
are of the household of faith.

When Joshua brought the nation into the Promised Land, he took them to a place called Shechem.
There he divided the tribes of Israel into half and six stood on Mt. Gerizim and six on Mt Ebal. Mt.
Gerizim is covered with fruitful terraces, blesses with life, celebration and joy. On the other side, Mt.
Ebal is arid, dark brown, and barren. It looks dead. God was trying to help Israel understand that if they
would obey Him, he would bring to them the blessings of Mt. Gerizim. But, if they turned from Him, He
would curse them and eventually destroy them.

Today we sadly look back at the history of Israel when they divided from Judah and turned away from
God. We need to learn that God has not changed. He will bless those who honor Him, and curse those
who reject Him.

7.2 Objectives

1. The student will be able to summarize why and how Israel turned to be to a divided Monarchy.

2. Students should be able to understand the background stories in the historical books of 1 Kings
12-22, and the Prophets in the areas of the location settling, government, religion, social, and
commercial factors in the society.

3. The student will be able to explain the importance of maintaining a good relationship with God.

7.3 Location

Israel after Solomon’s death

Solomon was the greatest king of Israel, far surpassing all others in wisdom and in the extent
of his kingdom. He subjugated all the area to the north from Damascus to the Euphrates
River. Israel’s land mass was about three times it modern day size.

41