What happened historically when Israel rebelled or fell into idolatry?
Historically, when Israel became rebellious and steeped in unbelief or idolatry, God chastened the nation. He used the rod of men—other nations—to discipline them. God brought a conquering nation against Israel and put them in subservience, exactly as He had warned in His covenant dealings with David and Israel.
Les explains from 2 Samuel chapter 7, where God speaks to David through Nathan, that the promised Kingdom and throne were to be perpetual. Yet God also said that if Israel committed iniquity, He would chasten them. Les says God would spank them with the rod of men, meaning He would use other nations. Historically, when Israel became rebellious and steeped in unbelief or idolatry, God brought in a conquering nation and put them in subservience. This was the consistent pattern God had told Israel would follow.