The Sins of Jeroboam, the Son of Nebat,
The sermon highlights the downfall of the kingdom of Israel due to the corruption and disorganization of the people, which was caused by the disregard of God's law, and emphasizes the importance of parental influence in promoting the godliness of children.
F.B. Meyer discusses the sins of Jeroboam, the son of Nebat, emphasizing how his actions led Israel into sin and ultimately contributed to the nation's downfall. The sermon highlights the repeated mention of Jeroboam's influence, illustrating the long-term consequences of sin and the importance of adhering to God's laws. Meyer warns that political decisions made without regard for divine principles are doomed to fail, as seen in the fate of Israel. He also reflects on the role of parents in shaping their children's faith, suggesting that Nebat's influence may have contributed to Jeroboam's sinful path. The message serves as a reminder of the critical need for godly leadership and the impact of familial responsibility.
Text
The sins of Jeroboam, the son of Nebat,
who made Israel to sin. 2 Kings xv. 9, 18, 24, 28.
THIS chapter anticipates the final overthrow of the kingdom of the tribes. It describes the corruption and disorganization of the people which made them the easy prey of Assyria. One puppet‑king after another was set upon the throne to fall after a brief space of rule, and four times over it is said that they followed in the steps of Jeroboam, "who made Israel to sin." The seed sown two hundred years before had at last come to maturity, issuing in the ruin of the nation. 'What a comment on the inspired words, "Sin, when it is finished, bridgeth forth death."
Twelve times in the story of the kingdom of Israel we are told that Jeroboam, the son of Nebat, made Israel to sin. The institution of the calves on his part seemed to be a piece of political wisdom, but it was an infraction of the Divine law; and what is morally wrong can never be politically right. The house cannot stand unless the foundation can bear the test of the Divine plummet. The kingdom of Israel fell, to prove to all after‑time that the disregard of God's law is a foundation of sand, which can never resist the test of time.
Why is Jeroboam so frequently called "the son of Nebat"? Why should the father be for ever pilloried with the son, except that he was in some way responsible for, and implicated in, his sins? There was a time when perhaps Nebat might have restrained the growing boy, or led him to the true worship of God; or perhaps his parental influence and example were deadly in their effect. How important that parents should leave no stone unturned to promote the godliness of their children, bringing them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
Sermon Outline
- The Kingdom of Israel's Downfall
- The Sin of Jeroboam
- Lessons from the Story of Jeroboam
- The Importance of Parental Influence
- The Dangers of Disregarding God's Law
- The Consequences of Disregarding God's Law
Key Quotes
“What a comment on the inspired words, 'Sin, when it is finished, bridgeth forth death.'” — F.B. Meyer
“The house cannot stand unless the foundation can bear the test of the Divine plummet.” — F.B. Meyer
Application Points
- Parents should leave no stone unturned to promote the godliness of their children.
- Disregarding God's law can have severe consequences, including ruin and destruction.
- The foundation of a person's life must be built on the principles of God's law in order to stand the test of time.