Monday, October 28 – 2 Chronicles 18, 19 – Additional Reading: Prophets and Kings, Chapter 15, “Jehoshaphat”

1. What was the relationship between Ahab and Jehoshaphat? (2 Chronicles 18:1)

2. What complaint did Ahab have about the prophet Micaiah? (2 Chronicles 18:7)

Commentary and Reflection:

Ahab had a grievance against the prophet Micaiah, stating, “he never prophesies good concerning me.” It’s fascinating that when Micaiah finally gave a positive message, Ahab dismissed it, demanding: “How many times shall I make you swear that you tell me nothing but the truth in the name of the Lord?” (2 Chronicles 18:15).

The tendency to prefer flattering words and reject corrective rebukes is human nature. However, when the stakes are life and death, isn’t it better to hear a truthful warning rather than a false affirmation? Why seek a comfortable message when our lives are on the line?

The SDA Bible Commentary explains: “The prophet of the Lord did not prophesy good concerning Alrab because there was nothing good to prophesy. He delivered messages to Alrab as they were given to him by God. Alrab hated Micaiah because he hated the truth and despised the Lord. Truth is truth, whether it is appreciated or not. What the prophet of the Lord said, would come to pass, whether Alrab desired it or not.” (SDA Bible Commentary, 2 Chronicles 18:7).

From biblical times to today, people try to bend God’s message to their liking, and false messages are often more popular. Even social media algorithms reflect this preference. In Ahab’s case, the ratio was 400 false prophets to 1 true prophet, yet the majority was still wrong. Tailoring God’s message to personal preferences can have tragic consequences, as demonstrated here.

Despite Micaiah’s clear warning, Jehoshaphat and Ahab still went to war! Ahab could have survived had he heeded God’s message instead of stubbornly pursuing his desires. Jehoshaphat was Ahab’s co-father-in-law (his son was married to Ahab and Jezebel’s daughter, 2 Chronicles 21:4-6), likely felt pressure not to offend Ahab, and as a result, both kings pushed forward, nearly costing them both their lives.

“The words of the prophet should have been enough to show the kings that their project was not favored by Heaven, but neither ruler felt inclined to heed the warning. Ahab had marked out his course, and he was determined to follow it. Jehoshaphat had given his word of honor, “We will be with thee in the war;” and after making such a promise, he was reluctant to withdraw his forces. 2 Chronicles 18:3. “So the king of Israel and Jehoshaphat the king of Judah went up to Ramoth-gilead.” 1 Kings 22:29.” (Prophets and Kings, p. 196).

Jehoshaphat narrowly escaped death, but he did not avoid God’s rebuke: “Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the Lord? Therefore the wrath of the Lord is upon you. Nevertheless, good things are found in you, in that you have removed the wooden images from the land, and have prepared your heart to seek God” (2 Chronicles 19:2-3).

May God guide your steps today. Do not seek flattering words; seek the Word of God, as if your life depends on it.