2 Chronicles 10 · Grade 5

A Kingdom Divided

Name Date

Read and Think

The Chronicler moves quickly from Solomon's glory to trouble. At Shechem, Rehoboam faced a simple request: if he lightened the heavy yoke, the people would serve him. He asked for three days to decide.

The elders had seen Solomon's reign and knew what a people needs. They advised that if he would be kind to the people and speak good words, they would serve him forever. The young men, his peers, urged a show of power: he should boast that his little finger was thicker than his father's waist.

Rehoboam chose pride and spoke roughly. The text says the turn of events was from God, to fulfill his word through Ahijah. God's plans stand even through human foolishness. In the New Testament, Jesus taught that whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant (Mark 10:43). Rehoboam wanted servants; he would not be one.

Show What You Know

What did the people ask Rehoboam to do?
Why did the elders understand the people?
What did the young men urge?
What stands even through human foolishness?
What did Jesus teach in Mark 10:43?

Crossword

Across

____ Rehoboam took counsel with the old men
And they spoke to ____
If you are kind to these ____

Down

So all ____ departed to their tents
Your father made our ____ grievous

Think About It

Rehoboam chose pride over kindness. When are you tempted to answer someone harshly, and what could you say instead?
Jesus says in the New Testament that greatness means serving (Mark 10:43). How can you serve someone this week?

Memory Verse

They spoke to him, saying, “If you are kind to these people, please them, and speak good words to them, then they will be your servants forever.”

2 Chronicles 10:7 (WEB)

Copy It

Prayer

Dear God, thank You for good advice. Help me . Amen.

Take It Home

For families: talk about these together.

How can you listen well to the people you serve?
Why does a gentle answer often calm an argument?
What is one way you could live out this chapter this week?