LESSON 18

The Kingdom of Israel Turns to Idolatry

1. How does Scripture refer to Jeroboam, the first king of the ten tribes?

He is called “Jeroboam, who made Israel to sin.” II Kings 13:2

2. Why is he called Jeroboam who made Israel to sin?

Because he commanded Israel to worship God by means of golden calves. I Kings 12:28, 29; II Kings 17:21

3. To what further sin did this lead Israel?

Israel turned to worshiping all the idols of the heathen nations round about Canaan.

4. Which idol especially did Israel worship?

In the days of wicked King Ahab, Israel worshiped Baal. I Kings 16:30-33

5. Was there a remnant that was faithful to God?

Yes, there were seven thousand who refused to bow the knee before Baal. I Kings 19:18

6. Whom did God send to oppose this idolatry?

The prophets Elijah and Elisha who proclaimed that Jehovah is God.

7. When especially did the elect remnant in the ten tribes manifest its faith?

When in the days of Hezekiah, king of Judah, they returned to Jerusalem for the Passover. II Chronicles 30:10, 11

8. How did God punish these ten tribes for their wickedness?

God sent the enemy to take them captive and to scatter them. II Kings 17

9. Whom did the king of Assyria place in their land?

The Samaritans, who were strangers brought in from various parts of the Assyrian kingdom. II Kings 17:24

10. What did the king of Assyria do when God sent lions to slay these Samaritans who did not fear him?

He sent one of the captive priests to teach them the fear of the Lord. II Kings 17:27, 28