© Illustration by Michael Woodruff
Bible Personalities: Jeroboam
Jeroboam was from the strong northern tribe of Ephraim. He was noted as industrious and as a man of valour. No wonder King Solomon made Jeroboam a chief officer in his kingdom.
Jeroboam's strong reputation made him an obvious choice to present tribal grievances to the king. While the talks weakened, Jeroboam's prestige increased. He was crowned as king over the new northern Kingdom.
To retain his grip on power, Jeroboam began a series of reforms. These changes would keep Israel's citizens from their neighbours in Judah. These changes would also affect Jeroboam's legacy.
Because of Jeroboam's rebellion against God, God ensured Jeroboam's lineage on the throne would come to an abrupt end. What could have been a dynasty like King David's became tragedy for Jeroboam and his nation.
Read more about Jeroboam's brush with greatness at:
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