1 Kings 22:1-40

Introduction:

1. Micaiah, like Elijah, spoke unwelcome truths to king Ahab (vv. 7-8, 18).

2. His prophecy in this account centered on Ahab’s desire to reclaim the important city of Ramoth-Gilead from the Syrians (vv. 3-9; 1 Kings 20:34).

3. Micaiah faced harsh treatment for being truthful to Ahab (vv. 26-28).

Discussion:

I. A Misguided Alliance (vv. 1-4)

A. Jehoshaphat was honored as a righteous king (2 Chronicles 17:3-6).

B. Ahab was known for his legendary wickedness (1 Kings 16:30-33).

C. By marriage, these two became allies (2 Chronicles 18:1; 2 Kings 8:16-18).

D. Jehoshaphat’s entry into this alliance is strange due to Ahab’s evils.

II. Itching Ears and Lying Prophets (vv. 5-13)

A. Jehoshaphat sought God’s approval after the fact (vs. 5; James 4:13-15).

B. Ahab’s 400 prophets did not convince Jehoshaphat that the campaign against the Syrians had God’s support (vv. 6-13).

C. His skepticism prompted a request for another voice (vs. 7).

III. The Honest Prophet (vv. 14-28)

A. Despite a solicitation to acquiesce with the 400 prophets, Micaiah vowed to speak what the Lord said (vv. 13-14).

B. He initially feigned agreement with the 400 (vs. 15).

C. Ahab demanded the truth from him (vs. 16), but upon hearing it he lashed out at Micaiah and had him imprisoned (vv. 17-27).

D. Ahab’s choice was between accepting truth and living or believing a lie and dying (1 Kings 22:29-40; 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12).

E. Micaiah was willing to stand for truth regardless the cost (vs. 28).

Conclusion: Application for Today

1. Never partner with darkness regardless the perceived benefit (Proverbs 16:8; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18).

2. Seek God’s approval and guidance before making decisions, not after.

3. Honest ears are a great gift from God.

4. Truth is determined by God, not popular vote.

5. Truth will stand in the open air, in prison, and even in death.