1Ki 11:29-39 | Clarke | STEP | Verse 29 When Jeroboam went out of Jerusalem - On what errand he was going out of Jerusalem, we know not. Ahijah the Shilonite - He was one of those who wrote the history of the reign of Solomon, as we find from , and it is supposed that it was by him God spake twice to Solomon; and particularly delivered the message which we find in this chapter, .

1 Kings 11:29-39

Verse 29

When Jeroboam went out of Jerusalem - On what errand he was going out of Jerusalem, we know not.

Ahijah the Shilonite - He was one of those who wrote the history of the reign of Solomon, as we find from 2Chr 9:29, and it is supposed that it was by him God spake twice to Solomon; and particularly delivered the message which we find in this chapter, 1Kgs 11:11-13. Verse 31

Take thee ten pieces - The garment was the symbol of the kingdom of Israel; the twelve pieces the symbol of the twelve tribes; the ten pieces given to Jeroboam, of the ten tribes which should be given to him, and afterwards form the kingdom of Israel, ruling in Samaria, to distinguish it from the kingdom of Judah, ruling in Jerusalem. Verse 36

That David my servant may have a light alway - That his posterity may never fail, and the regal line never become extinct. This, as we have already seen, was in reference to the Messiah. He was not only David's light, but he was a light to enlighten the Gentiles. Verse 37

According to all that thy soul desireth - It appears from this that Jeroboam had affected the kingdom, and was seeking for an opportunity to seize on the government. God now tells him, by his prophet, what he shall have, and what he shall not have, in order to prevent him from attempting to seize on the whole kingdom, to the prejudice of the spiritual seed of David. Verse 38

And build thee a sure house - He would have continued his posterity on the throne of Israel, had he not by his wickedness forfeited the promises of God, and thrown himself out of the protection of the Most High. Verse 39

But not for ever - They shall be in affliction and distress till the Messiah come, who shall sit on the throne of David to order it and establish it in judgment and justice for ever. Jarchi says, on this verse, "When the Messiah comes, the kingdom shall be restored to the house of David.