29 It came about at that time , when Jeroboam went out of Jerusalem , that the prophet Ahijah the Shilonite found him on the road . Now Ahijah had clothed himself with a new cloak ; and both of them were alone in the field . 30 Then Ahijah took hold of the new cloak which was on him and tore it into twelve e pieces . 31 He said to Jeroboam , "Take for yourself ten pieces ; for thus says the Lord , the God of Israel , 'Behold , I will tear the kingdom out of the hand of Solomon and give you ten tribes
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Kings 11:29-31
Commentary on 1 Kings 11:26-40
(Read 1 Kings 11:26-40)
In telling the reason why God rent the kingdom from the house of Solomon, Ahijah warned Jeroboam to take heed of sinning away his preferment. Yet the house of David must be supported; out of it the Messiah would arise. Solomon sought to kill his successor. Had not he taught others, that whatever devices are in men's hearts, the counsel of the Lord shall stand? Yet he himself thinks to defeat that counsel. Jeroboam withdrew into Egypt, and was content to live in exile and obscurity for awhile, being sure of a kingdom at last. Shall not we be content, who have a better kingdom in reserve?