In the opening message of our Crown and Consequence series, we begin by examining the reign of King Jeroboam in 1 Kings 11–12. Given a kingdom by God and promised an enduring dynasty if he would simply trust and obey, Jeroboam instead allowed fear to drive his decisions. Worried about losing the approval of the people, he set up golden calves for Israel to worship—repeating the very sin that once led the nation astray in the wilderness.

This message explores a sobering truth: when pleasing people becomes the goal, people quietly become the god. From ancient Israel to modern social media pressures, we wrestle with the temptation to seek approval from others rather than faithfulness to God. Jeroboam’s story reminds us that fear often leads to compromise, compromise leads to idolatry, and idolatry always carries consequences—not just for us, but for those we influence.

As we trace the divided kingdom and the lasting impact of Jeroboam’s choices, we’re reminded that every earthly king ultimately points us to the One true King—Jesus Christ—who reigns not by fear or manipulation, but by faithfulness and truth.

Will we seek the approval of people, or will we trust the promises of God?