Kingdom Divided

Pastor Kevin Rutledge - 10/29/2023 10:00 AM

Join us as we explore the powerful consequences of choices in this episode. We start by examining the fateful decision of Rehoboam to divide the kingdom of Israel and the contrasting counsel he received from two different groups of people. Listen as we discuss how his choice to listen to those who fluffed him up, rather than the wise elders, led to the division of the kingdom and the cascade of events that followed. We reflect on how different the course of history might have been had he chosen the other way.

The journey doesn't stop there. We then shift gears to talk about our personal struggle when faced with choices that either elevate ourselves or diminish us for the sake of others. We unpack the hard reality of relinquishing something that once worked well, and the need to seek God's guidance to determine the right path. We then move onto the topic of how we can make the right choices and surround ourselves with the right people, drawing insights from biblical stories. Lastly, we pose some crucial questions to ask ourselves when making decisions, offering you some food for thought. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking wisdom in decision-making from a biblical perspective.

Scripture:

  • First Reading: Mark 10:42-45
  • Second Reading: 1 Kings 12:1-17, 25-29
View Order of Worship View Message Transcript View Small Group Discussion Guide

This Week's Reading Plan

Day: Reading:
Monday Ahab's Evil Actions: 1 Kings 16:29-33
Tuesday Elijah Announces a Drought: 1 Kings 17:1-7
Wednesday Elijah and the Widow: 1 Kings 17:8-16
Thursday The Widow's Son: 1 Kings 17:17-24
Friday The Good Man Obadiah: 1 Kings 18:1-6
Saturday Elijah and Obadiah: 1 Kings 18:7-16
Sunday Fire from Heaven: 1 Kings 18:17-39

Each podcast episode features portions of our worship service and a deep dive conversation about its themes.

Reflections and Caring Conversations

Please use the prompts and prayers below to aid you in your devotions for this week.

  • Morning Prayer: Lord, as I wake up to this new day, I ask You to guide my steps and my decisions. Help me to always turn to You for guidance. May I seek Your wisdom over my own understanding and make choices that align with Your will. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.

  • Evening Prayer: Lord, as I end this day, I reflect on the decisions I have made. I seek Your forgiveness for any decisions that were not in alignment with Your will. Help me to learn from these experiences and make future choices that honor you. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.

  • Reflection Question: The sermon discussed the consequences of Rehoboam decision to listen to the people who fed his ego, rather than wise counsel. Can you recall a time in your life when you had to make a similar choice? What was the outcome? (Refer to 1 Kings 12:1-19)

  • Reflection Question: How can we better align ourselves with the right individuals, as discussed in the sermon? In what ways can we ensure that the people we surround ourselves with are those who prioritize Christ and seek good? (Refer to Proverbs 13:20)

  • Reflection Question: The sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking divine guidance for the right path. How does this resonate with your personal beliefs and experiences? (Refer to Psalm 32:8)

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