So they strengthened the kingdom of Judah, and made Rehoboam the son of Solomon strong, three years: for three years they walked in the way of David and Solomon.
They strengthened the kingdom of Judah. The innovating measures of Jeroboam were not introduced all at once. But as the were developed, the secession of the most excellent of his subjects began, and continuing to increase for three years, lowered the tone of religion its his kingdom, while it proportionally quickened its life and extended its influence in that of Judah.