The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Episode: Day 162: Rehoboam Seeks Counsel
Release Date: June 11, 2025
Introduction to the Divided Kingdom Period
In Day 162 of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, hosted by Fr. Mike Schmitz, listeners embark on a pivotal segment of biblical history: the period of the Divided Kingdom. This era marks a significant turning point in the narrative of Israel, characterized by political fragmentation and spiritual challenges. Fr. Mike introduces this new period with enthusiasm, highlighting the upcoming 21 days dedicated to exploring the complexities of both the Northern Kingdom of Israel and the Southern Kingdom of Judah.
"In the period of the divided kingdom, there are lots of ups and downs, lots of people, lots of names, and a lot of action both in the north and the south."
[00:04]
Biblical Narratives: 1 Kings 12 & 2 Chronicles 10-11
Fr. Mike delves into the biblical texts of 1 Kings Chapter 12 and 2 Chronicles Chapters 10 and 11, providing a comprehensive overview of Rehoboam's ascension to the throne and the ensuing division of the kingdom.
1 Kings 12 recounts how the ten northern tribes of Israel, led by Jeroboam, secede from Rehoboam's rule due to his unwise decision-making. The people approach Rehoboam with a plea to lighten the oppressive labor imposed by his father, Solomon. Rehoboam's failure to heed the wise counsel of the elders and his choice to follow the advice of his younger companions leads to the kingdom's split.
"My little finger is thicker than my father's loins. And now, whereas my father laid upon you a heavy yoke, I will add to your yoke."
[00:04]
In 2 Chronicles 10-11, the narrative parallels 1 Kings but offers additional details about Rehoboam's efforts to fortify Judah and Benjamin. It highlights his construction of defensive cities and the political maneuvers to secure his reign. The chronicles also emphasize the migration of the Levites back to Jerusalem and the establishment of a stable, albeit separated, kingdom in Judah.
"Rehoboam made haste to mount his chariot to flee to Jerusalem. So Israel has been in rebellion against the house of David to this day."
[Transcript Excerpt]
Lessons on Leadership and Counsel
A central theme of this episode is the importance of wise counsel in leadership. Fr. Mike contrasts the advice Rehoboam receives from the old men—who advocate for kindness and maintaining the people's loyalty—with the young men—who encourage harsher measures to assert authority.
"Do I look to those sources of wisdom, or do I look to the people who agree with me? That is such a temptation every single one of us has."
[Transcript Excerpt]
Fr. Mike underscores the timeless relevance of this lesson, urging listeners to seek advice from those with experience and wisdom rather than simply from peers who affirm their preconceptions. He draws a parallel between Rehoboam's folly and common human tendencies to favor agreeable over wise counsel.
"We can learn more from people who are not like us than people who are just like us."
[Transcript Excerpt]
This discussion serves as a reflection on personal decision-making and leadership, emphasizing that true wisdom often requires humility and openness to diverse perspectives.
Jeroboam's Idolatry and Its Implications
The episode further explores Jeroboam's actions following the kingdom's split. Recognizing the threat of his subjects' hearts returning to Jerusalem for worship, Jeroboam establishes alternative worship sites in Bethel and Dan. He institutes golden calves as objects of worship and appoints non-Levitical priests, leading the northern kingdom into idolatry.
"Jeroboam's golden calves… he led the people into idolatry."
[Transcript Excerpt]
Fr. Mike highlights the gravity of this spiritual deviation, noting its enduring impact on Israel's history. The establishment of false worship practices serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of compromising true faith for political stability or personal gain.
Introduction to Song of Solomon Chapter 1
In a unique turn, Fr. Mike introduces Song of Solomon Chapter 1, setting the stage for an eight-day exploration of this poetic and multifaceted book. He explains the three primary ways the Song of Solomon has been traditionally interpreted:
- Allegorical Interpretation: Represents the relationship between God and His people, Israel or the Church.
- Human Love Poetry: Celebrates romantic and erotic love between individuals.
- Literal Sense (Typology): Prefigures the union of Christ and the Church or God and Israel.
"As Catholics, we can read it in all those ways because it is all three of those things."
[Transcript Excerpt]
Fr. Mike emphasizes the richness of the text, encouraging listeners to appreciate its depth and its reflection of both divine and human love.
Insights on Interpreting Song of Solomon
Delving deeper into the interpretation, Fr. Mike discusses how the imagery in Song of Solomon transcends mere poetic expression. He points out the profound symbolism, such as:
"Your eyes are doves."
[Transcript Excerpt]
These metaphors are not only expressions of romantic affection but also hold deeper spiritual meanings related to God's love and the ideal of divine beauty.
Fr. Mike invites listeners to engage with the text on multiple levels, fostering an appreciation for its layered meanings and its relevance to both personal and communal faith journeys.
Application to Modern Life
Connecting the historical and biblical narratives to contemporary life, Fr. Mike draws parallels between the division of the kingdom and personal or communal divisions today. He urges listeners to heed the lessons from Rehoboam and Jeroboam, advocating for unity, faithful leadership, and steadfastness in faith.
"Without you, we are divided. And without you, we are always prone. We are prone to fail."
[Transcript Excerpt]
This segment serves as a reminder of the enduring human struggles with authority, loyalty, and faithfulness, encouraging a reflective and proactive approach to overcoming divisions in one's own life and community.
Conclusion and Prayer
Fr. Mike concludes the episode with a heartfelt prayer, expressing gratitude for the Scriptures explored—Kings, Chronicles, and the Song of Solomon. He asks for divine guidance to internalize the lessons learned and to foster unity and faithfulness among listeners.
"Father in heaven, we give you praise and glory... open our hearts to be able to praise your name."
[Transcript Excerpt]
He closes with blessings and an invitation to continue the journey together, reinforcing the communal aspect of their biblical exploration.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
-
Introduction to Divided Kingdom:
"In the period of the divided kingdom, there are lots of ups and downs, lots of people, lots of names, and a lot of action both in the north and the south."
[00:04] -
Lessons on Counsel:
"Do I look to those sources of wisdom, or do I look to the people who agree with me? That is such a temptation every single one of us has."
[Transcript Excerpt] -
Prayer:
"Father in heaven, we give you praise and glory... open our hearts to be able to praise your name."
[Transcript Excerpt]
Final Thoughts
In this engaging episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz masterfully intertwines biblical exegesis with practical life lessons, offering listeners a profound understanding of a critical period in Israel's history. By exploring the dynamics of leadership, the peril of idolatry, and the beauty of divine love as depicted in the Song of Solomon, Fr. Mike provides a rich, multifaceted narrative that resonates with both spiritual seekers and those interested in biblical history.
Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the importance of wise counsel, the consequences of divided leadership, and the enduring relevance of scripture in guiding personal and communal faith journeys.
Tune in tomorrow as Fr. Mike continues the journey through the Divided Kingdom, delving deeper into the prophetic voices and the unfolding story of Israel's history.
Blessings, Fr. Mike Schmitz