This verse shows the peril of heeding foolish counsel and the tragic consequences that can follow from pride.
“The young men who grew up with him spoke to him, saying, ‘Thus you shall say.’” (v.10) In this passage, we see Rehoboam, the son of King Solomon, receiving advice from the peers he grew up with. Historically, Rehoboam’s reign began around 931 BC after the death of Solomon, and he found himself immediately confronted with a leadership crisis (1 Kings 12:1-15). These “young men” were likely from the royal court, men who had not experienced the hardships of the kingdom’s early days under David and Solomon, and they urged a harsh response toward the northern tribes. Geographically, this moment took place in Shechem, located in the central hill country of the land of Israel, an area with substantial historical significance (Genesis 12:6-7), making it a critical meeting place for tribal gatherings and covenant renewals in times past.
In giving Rehoboam their counsel, these advisers demonstrated little regard for diplomacy or the people’s legitimate grievances, preferring instead to assert dominance. Their suggestion sharply contrasted with the elders’ earlier advice, which recommended gentleness and compassion. This drastic difference in perspectives highlights a biblical principle seen throughout Scripture: the importance of wise counsel (Proverbs 15:22). By listening to the “young men,” Rehoboam was set on a path that would fracture his kingdom and accelerate ongoing tensions, a spiritual lesson that underscores how choices made by leaders can bring unity or discord.
In the broader story of redemption, this verse indirectly points us toward the need for godly wisdom and Christ’s example of servant leadership (Matthew 20:25-28). Where Rehoboam’s counselors exhibited arrogance and self-serving motives, Christ perfectly exemplified sacrificial love and concern for those He led. The choice to follow ungodly counsel underscores humanity’s constant need for humility and divine guidance. Rehoboam’s fateful decision in Shechem thus reminds us to seek the Lord’s voice above all others.
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2 Chronicles 10:10 meaning
“The young men who grew up with him spoke to him, saying, ‘Thus you shall say.’” (v.10) In this passage, we see Rehoboam, the son of King Solomon, receiving advice from the peers he grew up with. Historically, Rehoboam’s reign began around 931 BC after the death of Solomon, and he found himself immediately confronted with a leadership crisis (1 Kings 12:1-15). These “young men” were likely from the royal court, men who had not experienced the hardships of the kingdom’s early days under David and Solomon, and they urged a harsh response toward the northern tribes. Geographically, this moment took place in Shechem, located in the central hill country of the land of Israel, an area with substantial historical significance (Genesis 12:6-7), making it a critical meeting place for tribal gatherings and covenant renewals in times past.
In giving Rehoboam their counsel, these advisers demonstrated little regard for diplomacy or the people’s legitimate grievances, preferring instead to assert dominance. Their suggestion sharply contrasted with the elders’ earlier advice, which recommended gentleness and compassion. This drastic difference in perspectives highlights a biblical principle seen throughout Scripture: the importance of wise counsel (Proverbs 15:22). By listening to the “young men,” Rehoboam was set on a path that would fracture his kingdom and accelerate ongoing tensions, a spiritual lesson that underscores how choices made by leaders can bring unity or discord.
In the broader story of redemption, this verse indirectly points us toward the need for godly wisdom and Christ’s example of servant leadership (Matthew 20:25-28). Where Rehoboam’s counselors exhibited arrogance and self-serving motives, Christ perfectly exemplified sacrificial love and concern for those He led. The choice to follow ungodly counsel underscores humanity’s constant need for humility and divine guidance. Rehoboam’s fateful decision in Shechem thus reminds us to seek the Lord’s voice above all others.