Commentary on 2 Chronicles 10:6

Introduction

2 Chronicles 10:6 serves as a pivotal moment in the account of Rehoboam's reign and the division of the kingdom of Israel. The verse reads:

“And King Rehoboam consulted with the old men, that stood before Solomon his father while he yet lived, saying, What counsel give ye me to return answer to this people?”

This text presents a critical juncture for Rehoboam, as he seeks guidance from seasoned counselors who served during the reign of his father, Solomon. The verse highlights the importance of wisdom, leadership, and the consequences of heeding or ignoring sound counsel.

Contextual Analysis

Before diving into the insights of revered commentators, it is essential to grasp the surrounding context:

• The events follow Solomon’s reign, a period marked by prosperity and the construction of the Temple.
• Rehoboam inherits a kingdom that is at risk of division due to heavy taxation and labor imposed by Solomon.
• The people of Israel, led by Jeroboam, seek relief, prompting Rehoboam to consult his advisors for guidance.

Insights from Commentators

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry provides a detailed examination of Rehoboam’s decision to consult the “old men.” He emphasizes that:

• This action reflects a moment where Rehoboam has the opportunity to learn from the experiences of his father’s reign.
• The “old men” symbolize wisdom and the value of historical knowledge in leadership.
• Henry warns that Rehoboam’s ultimate failure to heed their advice led to significant consequences for the nation of Israel.

Henry particularly notes that Rehoboam's initial inclination toward wisdom is promising; however, the turning point comes with his later decision to consult the “young men,” leading to folly and strife.

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes reflects on the importance of seeking wise counsel, suggesting that:

• Rehoboam’s consultation with the elders indicates a potentially positive start, suggesting a willingness to govern with wisdom and prudence.
• Barnes points out that the successful leadership of Solomon was predicated on wise counsel, drawing a parallel to the potential for Rehoboam to mirror that legacy.
• Ultimately, Barnes underscores that rejection of wise counsel is often the precursor to disaster in both personal and collective leadership.

He also highlights that, despite having received good advice, Rehoboam's heart was already inclined towards pride and assertion of heavy-handed governance.

Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke's commentary delves into the nature of the consultation and the implications thereof:

• Clarke emphasizes the term “consulted,” indicating a reliance on the wisdom of those who had witnessed the governance of Solomon.
• He notes the stark contrast between the elder’s advice and the counsel of the youth that follows, presenting a classic biblical contrast between wisdom and folly.
• Clarke posits that the elders’ counsel was rooted in the understanding of the people’s grievances, highlighting that leadership is not merely about authority but also about empathy and service.

Clarke concludes by asserting that leaders who do not listen to their constituents are often destined for conflict and failure.

Theological Implications

This verse and its accompanying commentaries yield critical theological insights about leadership and community dynamics:

• The Value of Wisdom: The interaction highlights the importance of wisdom in governance and decision-making.
• Consequences of Leadership Choices: The narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the ramifications of incorrect leadership choices.
• Consultation and Counsel: It establishes the foundational principle that godly leaders should seek wise counsel and act upon it.

Conclusion

2 Chronicles 10:6 encapsulates a significant moment of potential wisdom for Rehoboam, illustrating the critical role of counsel in leadership. The diverse insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke converge on a singular theological principle: wise leaders listen to the experience of their elders. This verse serves as an enduring reminder that the path of leadership is fraught with choices that can either lead to the flourishing of the community or its fracture. Rehoboam’s narrative ultimately calls all leaders to weigh their decisions carefully, reflect on the counsel they receive, and be attuned to the needs of those they serve.