We often think of religion as something pure — about God, worship, faith, and love.
But what happens when power, control, and ambition sneak in and start driving everything instead?
That’s exactly what happened long ago in Israel — and it still happens today in subtle ways.
In 1 Kings 12, the story of Jeroboam shows us how religion can be manipulated to serve a person’s agenda, rather than God’s.
Jeroboam’s Move: Worship as a Tool
Here’s what happened:
After Solomon died, the kingdom split in two. Ten tribes followed Jeroboam instead of Solomon’s son, Rehoboam.
But there was a problem — the temple was in Jerusalem, outside Jeroboam’s territory. What if people still went there to worship? They might return their loyalty to Rehoboam.
Jeroboam came up with a plan. He built new worship centers with golden calves and appointed priests who weren’t from the tribe of Levi. He told the people, “Here are your gods.”
In other words, he made worship about his own power, not about honoring God.
The Idol Behind the Idols
The golden calves weren’t the real problem. The deeper issue was control.
Jeroboam wanted to be in charge — to have people depend on him instead of trusting God.
When we let our own desires or ambitions decide how we follow God, we fall into the same trap.
The idol might not be a golden calf, but it’s still an idol when we put ourselves above God.
Power Plays Happen Everywhere
This isn’t just an ancient story or a political issue. It can happen anywhere — even in church, school, or youth group.
- When we care more about being seen as “right” than showing love.
- When we push our preferences just to stay in control.
- When we treat our group or style as the only “real” way to worship.
Anytime we put ourselves at the center, we twist faith into something it’s not meant to be.
Two Paths to Choose From
Every Christian faces this choice:
| Option | What It Looks Like | What It Costs |
| Follow God above all | Letting God’s truth shape your ambitions, even when it’s hard | You might lose popularity or control |
| Follow your own agenda | Putting your goals first — in faith, church, or life | You drift from God’s heart |
Jesus showed us the better path.
He gave up power to serve others and obey His Father, even when it led to the cross.
Think About It
- Where are you tempted to control rather than trust God?
- Are there ways you use faith to make yourself look good or feel powerful?
- What would it look like to follow God first, even when it’s unpopular or uncomfortable?
