1 Kings 12:6-11

Israel's Magna Charta.

The question submitted to Rehoboam at Shechem concerned the constitution of the monarchy. Hitherto there had been no constitution defining the rights of the people and limiting the power of the crown. Rehoboam took three days to deliberate upon the people's Bill of Rights, and in that interval took counsel. The old men who stood before Solomon advised concession, while the young ones, who had grown up with him, recommended resistance. Wisdom was with the ancients.

I. LIMITED MONARCHY IS BEST FOR THE PEOPLE .

1 . Because it recognises their rights .

2 . respects their happiness .

II. IT IS BEST ALSO FOR THE PRINCE .

1 . It encourages his virtues .

2 . It gives stability to his throne .

III. ADVOCATES OF TYRANNY SCORN TO REASON .

1 . The young counsellors give no reasons.

2 . But may there not be a benevolant autocracy?