2 Chronicles 13:6
Yet Jeroboam the son of Nebat, the servant of Solomon the son of David, is risen up, and hath rebelled against his lord.
2 Chronicles 13:6 (KJV)
Context
King Abijah of Judah speaks these words to Jeroboam and all Israel from Mount Zemaraim, just before a battle between the two divided kingdoms. After Solomon died, his son Rehoboam became king, but Jeroboam, a former official under Solomon, rebelled and took control of the northern tribes. Abijah reminds his listeners that Jeroboam was once a servant of Solomon, the son of David, and that he rose up against his rightful lord.
Meaning
The phrase “is risen up, and hath rebelled” shows a completed action with an ongoing result. Jeroboam’s rebellion was not a sudden mistake but a deliberate break from the house of David. Abijah calls him “the son of Nebat” and “the servant of Solomon” to stress his lowly origin and his duty to the king. This makes his rebellion a serious offense against both human authority and God’s arrangement.
Biblical connections
God had made an everlasting covenant with David, promising that his descendants would rule Israel (2 Chronicles 13:5). Jeroboam’s revolt violated this divine order. The rebellion also fulfilled the prophecy given to Jeroboam through Ahijah, but it did not excuse his disobedience. Abijah’s speech uses this history to show that Judah’s cause was just, because it stood on God’s promise to David.
Application
This verse warns against the dangers of pride and ambition. Jeroboam had been trusted with service, but he grasped for power and led others into sin. It also calls us to honor the authorities God places over us, unless they command us to disobey Him. Faithfulness in small duties protects us from the lure of rebellion.
Reflection
Abijah’s words remind us that God sees the heart behind every action. Jeroboam’s rebellion brought long-term division and conflict. We can ask ourselves whether we are content with the position God has given us, or whether we are tempted to rise up against His order. True loyalty begins with trusting God’s plan, even when it seems difficult.
