1 Kings 21-22

Pastor Marshall Ochs | September 15, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Kings 21-22. These chapters bring the book of First Kings to a close with the ruin of Ahab. God has declared destruction for Ahab because of his wicked leadership and rebellion against God’s Word. His character is contrasted with men like Elijah and Micaiah who are wholly devoted to the Lord. The theme that emerges from these chapters is weak men who ignore God’s Word, and faithful men who are bound to God’s Word. This contrast invites the reader to reflect on their personal character.

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1 Kings 21:1-16

The story of Naboth’s vineyard is not just an account of a land dispute but reveals much deeper truths about God’s judgment and how a nation's moral decline begins. Naboth refused to sell his land because, according to Levitical law, the land was more than property; it was an inheritance from God, never to be sold permanently (Leviticus 25:23). Naboth's refusal wasn’t stubbornness—it was obedience to God’s law.

But King Ahab had no regard for God’s Word. He sought to turn this sacred inheritance into a vegetable garden. This choice wasn’t just about land use; it symbolized Ahab’s desire to turn Israel into a place resembling Egypt, where life had been marked by slavery and oppression (Deuteronomy 11:10). Ahab’s actions represented the rejection of God's covenant, setting the stage for judgment to come.

In 1 Kings 21:3-16, we see how sin escalates in Israel's leadership. Ahab’s wife, Jezebel, takes matters into her own hands, manipulating the situation and using lies, deceit, and even murder to secure Naboth's vineyard for her husband. Worse still, the elders of Israel and some worthless men joined in with Jezebel’s wicked plan, condemning an innocent man to death on false accusations.

This event mirrors the path of moral decay in any society. Leaders reject God’s Word, normalize sin, and eventually recruit others to join their rebellion. The people, rather than standing against injustice, become complicit. The story of Naboth and Ahab foreshadows the rejection of Christ—the innocent One falsely accused and condemned by those in power.

A powerful question arises from this narrative: What if the people had refused to go along with Jezebel’s plan? What if the elders had stood up for righteousness instead of going along with evil? Godly leaders and citizens are responsible for saying "no" when confronted with injustice and sin. History would look different if people of courage had stood up for what is right.

This story challenges us to reflect on the consequences of moral decline when leaders reject God’s law. It also reminds us of the power of one person standing for righteousness, even when others fall into sin.

Reflection Questions

• What are the consequences when leaders or people in power disregard God’s law?
  Why did the elders and the people agree to Jezebel’s plan, even though it was clearly unjust? What would happen if more people said "no" to sin and injustice?

• Are you willing to stand up for righteousness, even when it's uncomfortable or dangerous?

1 Kings 21:17-29

The story of Naboth's vineyard doesn’t end with his death. Even though no one stood up for him, the Lord did. He sent Elijah to deliver a message of judgment to Ahab and Jezebel. Ahab and Jezebel, despite their

power, could not escape the consequences of their sin. The judgment declared by Elijah is severe: destruction for Ahab’s family and dishonor in death for both Ahab and Jezebel. God would not allow the evil they committed to go unpunished.

This passage reveals God’s heart for justice. Even when it seems like evil prevails, God is working behind the scenes to bring righteousness to light. We may not always see it immediately, but His timing is perfect, and His judgment is sure.

In 1 Kings 21:25-29, we see a surprising turn of events—Ahab repents. Despite being one of the most wicked kings, Ahab humbles himself after hearing Elijah’s prophecy. And in response, God extends a measure of mercy. Ahab’s dynasty will still end, but the destruction will not happen in his lifetime. This is a powerful example of how God’s mercy can intervene even after great sin. But Ahab still has to face the consequences of his actions—he will die. This reminds us that while God is merciful, the wages of sin is still death (Romans 6:23). Even when we repent, there are consequences for our actions. However, God’s mercy gives us hope that even in our failures, there is forgiveness.

This passage also contrasts two types of people—Ahab, who knows the Word of God but treats it as secondary, and those like Elijah, who know the Word and consider it primary in every aspect of their lives. Ahab knew God’s law but only considered it important when it benefited him. He ignored it when it conflicted with his desires. Elijah, on the other hand, lived by the Word of God as his guide for everything. It shaped his thoughts, actions, and decisions. Elijah was bound to God’s Word and could not be swayed by personal desires or pressures.

This contrast challenges us to examine our lives: Do we treat God’s Word as something we follow only when it suits us, or do we let it shape our lives?

Reflection Questions:

• How does God’s response to Ahab’s sin and Naboth’s death show His commitment to justice? Are there situations in your life where you feel like injustice is prevailing? How does this passage encourage you to trust in God’s justice?

• Ahab repented after hearing Elijah’s prophecy. How does this demonstrate God’s willingness to extend mercy, even to the most wicked people?

• Have you experienced God’s mercy in your own life after repentance? What does this teach you about His character?

• Elijah was faithful in proclaiming God’s judgment even when it was difficult. What does his boldness teach us about standing for truth? Are there areas in your life where you need to speak up for righteousness, even when it’s uncomfortable?

• Ahab knew God’s Word but treated it as secondary. How can we fall into the trap of knowing God’s Word but not living by it? What steps can you take to make God’s Word the source of your life, shaping your thoughts, actions, and decisions?

• Elijah lived his life fully committed to God’s Word. How can you cultivate the same commitment to the Scriptures in your daily walk with God?

1 Kings 22

In 1 Kings 22:1-12, we find a striking contrast between two kings: Ahab, the king of Israel, and Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah. Ahab, determined to reclaim a city lost to the Syrians, seeks the support of Jehoshaphat to go to battle. Jehoshaphat agrees but wants to seek God’s opinion first.

Ahab gathers 400 prophets, who all give the same favorable response. They tell Ahab precisely what he wants to hear. But Jehoshaphat isn’t convinced. He recognizes the difference between flattering words and a genuine Word from God. Jehoshaphat knew when prophets were preaching for approval rather than speaking a word from the Lord. This shows his hunger for something more—God’s truth. He seeks a prophet who values what he values: the voice of God above all else.

This is an important lesson for us today. How often do we settle for comforting words, messages that affirm what we already believe or want to hear? Even if it was difficult, Jehoshaphat’s desire for truth challenges us to seek God’s voice above the noise of popular opinion.

Jehoshaphat’s search for a true word from the Lord leads to Micaiah, a prophet bound to God and His Word (1 Kings 22:13-28). Unlike the 400 prophets who offered flattery, Micaiah declares exactly what the Lord reveals without manipulation or sugarcoating. He is not a prophet for hire, swayed by power or approval. Micaiah declares a hard truth: Ahab will die. This prophecy doesn’t sit well with Ahab, who has spent his life manipulating outcomes to suit his desires. Yet, Micaiah’s prophecy is unwavering. He speaks not for the approval of men but in obedience to God. His devotion to God’s Word is uncompromising.

This presents a question for us: Are we bound to God’s Word like Micaiah? Do we stand firm in God’s truth, even when difficult or unpopular? Do we let His Word guide our decisions and convictions or bend it to suit our desires?

As the story unfolds, Ahab and Jehoshaphat go to battle (1 Kings 22:29-53). Ahab, attempting to avoid his fate, disguises himself as a common soldier. But even his efforts to hide can’t thwart God’s judgment. A random arrow strikes him, fulfilling Micaiah’s prophecy. The chapter ends with a contrast between Ahab’s death and Jehoshaphat’s continued faithfulness to the Lord. Ahab, blinded by power, thought he could control his destiny. But in the end, he was powerless before God’s sovereign will.

This story draws our attention to two kinds of people: those who live close to God’s Word, letting it affect them superficially, and those who are bound to God’s Word, allowing it to shape their entire lives. People like Micaiah, Elijah, and the apostles—Paul, James, and Peter—tether their lives to God, walking in submission and obedience to Him. They are bound men, who will not compromise their convictions or accommodate sin, no matter the cost.

Reflection Questions:

• Jehoshaphat knew the difference between flattery and the Word of God. How can you discern between truth and mere approval-seeking in your life?

• Are there times when you’ve chosen to listen to voices that comfort or flatter rather than convict?

• Micaiah declared God’s Word boldly, even though it wasn’t what Ahab wanted to hear. Are you willing to stand for God’s truth, even when it’s uncomfortable or unpopular?

• How does Micaiah’s commitment to truth challenge you in your faith today? Where do you need to speak truth in love, even if it’s difficult?

• Ahab disguised himself to avoid the prophecy but couldn’t escape God’s judgment. What does this teach you about trying to control outcomes rather than submitting to God’s will?

• Are there areas in your life where you are trying to manipulate outcomes instead of trusting in God’s plan?

• The story of Ahab and Jehoshaphat contrasts two approaches to God’s Word. Do you live close to God’s Word, letting it rub off here and there, or are you bound to it, allowing it to shape your life?

• What steps can you take this week to deepen your devotion to Christ and His Word?

Lord, help us to be bound to Your Word, not swayed by the opinions of others or the temptations of power, comfort, or approval of men. Give us the courage to stand for truth, even when it’s difficult, and the wisdom to discern Your voice. Teach us to trust in Your sovereign will, knowing that You are always in control. May we walk in complete obedience to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

1 Kings 19-20

Pastor Marshall Ochs | September 8, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Kings 19-20. These chapters cover the aftermath of Mt Carmel and the resistance from Jezebel. Elijah expected nationwide revival, but Ahab’s wife stood in the way. These chapters reveal how Elijah dealt with this disappointment and how God comforts His people in sorrow. These chapters are a great source of encouragement for anyone struggling with discontentment.

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As we read 1 Kings 19 and 20, we follow the story of Elijah after the powerful showdown at Mount Carmel. Despite this victory, Elijah is disheartened and flees. These chapters show us the weight of disappointment, the consequences of idolatry, and the quiet faithfulness of God during chaos. Let’s consider how these truths apply to our own lives today.

1 Kings 19:1-8

After the powerful victory at Mount Carmel, where God sent fire to consume the altar, Elijah expected a nationwide revival. But instead, Jezebel, who controlled much of the religious and political power, remained unrepentant and sought to kill him. Elijah fled, not because he feared her, but because his vision for revival was crushed. All his hard work felt undone by one person.

Reflection:

Many of us can relate to Elijah's despair. Have you ever poured your heart into something, only to see it unravel because of one individual or event? Like Elijah, we may feel disillusioned in those moments and run in the opposite direction. But even when we are weary and feel hopeless, God sustains us. He fed Elijah in the wilderness, providing bread and water, and led him to Mount Sinai, a place of covenant and renewal. When you feel defeated, remember that God will nourish and guide you. Take time to rest in His provision, trusting that He sees your obedience and will bring comfort in His way and time.

1 Kings 19:9-21

Elijah’s discouragement led him to isolate himself, believing his work was in vain. But even in his despair, God didn’t abandon him. Instead, God asked, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” This simple question wasn’t for God’s knowledge but for Elijah’s heart. God meets us there when we feel like we’ve reached the end of our strength. He doesn’t condemn us. Instead, He gently calls us to reflect, come to Him honestly, and remember that He is with us.

God told Elijah to stand on the mountain and wait for Him. A powerful wind tore through the mountains, an earthquake shook the ground, and a fire blazed—but the Lord was not in any of these. Finally, there came a gentle whisper, and that’s when Elijah covered his face, knowing he was in God's presence.

God often speaks to us not through the dramatic or the loud but in the quiet and still moments. When life is overwhelming and we are looking for big signs, we may miss the whisper of God’s presence in our lives. He is with us in the quiet, inviting us to listen, trust, and find our strength in Him.

After revealing His presence, God didn’t leave Elijah in the cave. He gave him a renewed purpose, instructing him to anoint new leaders and to continue his prophetic mission. God reminded Elijah that he was not alone; there were still 7,000 in Israel who had not bowed to Baal. Even when Elijah felt isolated and defeated, God had a greater plan at work.

We often feel alone in our struggles, but God’s plan for us is far bigger than we can see. He calls us to continue, not in our strength, but with the assurance that He works through us, even when we don’t understand how.

Reflection:

Elijah’s encounter with God reminds us that God is not always in the grand and dramatic moments. Often, He speaks to us in the quiet places, in stillness and prayer. Elijah expected a loud, national revival, but God showed him that His work often happens in subtle, quiet ways. Are you listening for God’s voice in the quiet moments of your life? Amidst the noise of our busy world, we must intentionally seek Him in prayer, Scripture, and quiet moments.

1 Kings 20:1-12

As we shift focus to King Ahab, we see a king whose heart is far from God. Ahab disobeys God and seeks his own gain. Ben-Hadad of Syria threatens Israel, and war ensues. Despite Ahab’s wickedness, God remains in control. He has a plan to replace Ben-Hadad with Hazael and uses the 7,000 faithful men in Israel to defeat Syria.

Reflection:

Even when wicked leaders rule, and it feels like the world is spiraling out of control, God is still sovereign. Ahab was a weak and compromised leader, yet God’s plans were not thwarted. He used faithful men to accomplish His purposes. This gives us hope today. No matter how chaotic the world appears, no matter how unjust the systems seem, God is still on the throne.

1 Kings 20:35-43

This passage describes a prophetic interaction between a man of God and King Ahab. The prophet, disguised as a wounded soldier, delivers a parable to King Ahab, telling him he had been entrusted with guarding a prisoner. But because he let the prisoner go free, his own life would be taken in place of the prisoner’s. Ahab unknowingly declares his own judgment. The prophet then reveals that Ahab himself had failed to follow God's command to completely destroy King Ben-Hadad, whom God had delivered into his hands.

Reflection:

This passage is a powerful reminder of the weight of responsibility and the consequences of disobedience to God—Ahab’s failure to follow through with God's specific instructions led to his own judgment. The prophet's parable is meant to make Ahab understand the seriousness of his choices. It highlights that the responsibilities God entrusts to us should not be taken lightly. In a world where sin and injustice often seem to prevail, we are called to remain faithful and trust God. Reflect on how you can remain obedient to God’s Word.

Conclusion:

1 Kings 19 and 20 remind us that God is still faithful despite what we see around us of widespread wickedness. He speaks to us in the quiet places, sustains us in our weariness, and remains sovereign over the world's chaos. Like Elijah, we may have moments where we feel alone and discouraged, but God is with us. Lord, thank You for sustaining us in our moments of weakness and weariness. Help us to listen for Your voice in the quiet and to trust that You are in control, even when the world around us seems chaotic. Give us the strength to remain faithful, knowing that You will bring justice and that we are never alone. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

1 Kings 17-18

Pastor Marshall Ochs | September 1, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Kings 17-18. These chapters cover the early ministry of Elijah and the showdown between Yahweh and Baal. Whenever a nation turns to false gods and idol worship, the Lord faithfully raises up prophetic voices to call the people to repentance. Elijah was a man with a nature like ours and he prayed big prayers. God answered those prayers to call many to repentance. James 5 uses this story to remind believers of their responsibility to pray against the increasing worldliness and idolatry in our world today — that many would turn from their sin to the Lord.

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1 Kings 1

Pastor Marshall Ochs | June 30, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teach from 1 Kings 1. This chapter opens with a striking look at Israel under an aging King David. David has suffered the consequences for his poor decisions with Bathsheba and the entire nation has felt the impact. Solomon has been declared the next king of Israel, but Solomon’s brother wants the throne. Competition erupts and David must declare which boy will become king. The entire chapter is filled with rich application for our life; the most prominent is how our decisions shape us.

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1 Kings 1:1-4

The once mighty warrior David is now an old and frail man, relying on his servants to care for him. They chose to find a beautiful young woman, Abishag, to keep him warm—with no sexual relations involved. David's love for women and his sin with Bathsheba had long-lasting repercussions: the death of his son, turmoil with Absalom, and the future sins of Solomon.

Reflection: The opening of Kings warns us of the long-term impacts of our decisions. Our good and bad choices shape our lives and influence those around us, especially our children. As parents and leaders, we must walk in obedience to God, knowing that disobedience brings consequences and obedience leads to eternal blessings. Consider how you are living and what kind of impact it has on those inside your influence, especially your children.

1 Kings 1:5-10

In contrast to David's frailty, we see the ambitious and handsome Adonijah declaring himself king. Despite David proclaiming Solomon his successor, Adonijah attempts to seize the throne. He throws a grand feast, inviting key military and religious leaders, notably excluding Solomon.

Reflection: Adonijah's actions highlight the dangers of unchecked ambition and weak parenting. David's lack of discipline and failure to set boundaries for his children led to Adonijah's sense of entitlement and rebellion. As parents and mentors, we must guide and correct our children lovingly, setting them on a path of righteousness. Reflect on how you are instilling godly values and discipline in those under your care.

1 Kings 1:11-27

Seeing the unfolding events, Nathan the prophet devises a plan to ensure Solomon's rightful place on the throne. He instructs Bathsheba to plea to David, followed by his own support as a second witness. Nathan is very much aware of David's affection for Bathsheba and her influence over him.

Reflection: Surrounding ourselves with wise, God-fearing people is essential. Nathan's intervention reminds us of the importance of having mentors and friends who will speak truth into our lives and help us stay on the narrow path. Do you have a Nathan in your life who provides godly counsel and encouragement?

1 Kings 1:28-40

Despite his failings as a father, David demonstrates his ability to govern by organizing Solomon's anointing. He orders a public ceremony with priests, prophets, and military leaders, establishing Solomon as king.

Reflection: Leadership requires decisive action and sometimes a public acknowledgment of God's will. David's actions illustrate the need to follow through on God's will, even when we have made mistakes.  Do you find it easier to govern and lead outside your family than lead your children well? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal how you can lead your children, set proper boundaries, and demonstrate the love of Christ to them.

1 Kings 1:41-53

The noise from Solomon's anointing reaches Adonijah's feast, signaling that the people support Solomon. Solomon, showing mercy, offers Adonijah a chance to live peacefully if he proves himself worthy.

Reflection: Solomon's mercy towards Adonijah mirrors God's grace towards us. Though we deserve punishment for our sins, God offers us a chance to repent and walk in obedience. Our choices have eternal consequences, and we must choose to follow God faithfully. Reflect on how you can extend grace and seek forgiveness in your own relationships.

As we reflect on the opening chapter of 1 Kings, we see the profound impact of obedience and disobedience. Under the old covenant, blessings, and curses were direct consequences of adherence to God's law. Under the new covenant, while our salvation is secured by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, our obedience still reflects our love for Him (John 14:15).

May we choose to walk in obedience, remembering that our choices matter. Consider how God is working in your life through both your obedience and your disobedience. Trust in His grace, seek His wisdom, and surround yourself with godly counsel. As you meditate on these passages this week, ask God to reveal areas where you need to align your choices with His will and strengthen you in your walk with Christ.