1 Kings 22:1-40

Introduction:

1. If asked to name an Old Testament prophet quickly, most would likely give Elijah, Elisha, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, etc. as their answer.

2. Some may name Micah, but few if any would name Micaiah in this exercise.

3. Yet, there is so much we can learn from this lesser-known prophet of God.

Discussion:

I. Ahab’s Yes Men

A. When Ahab asked Jehoshaphat to help him reclaim Ramoth in Gilead from the Syrians, Jehoshaphat agreed but wanted to inquire of God first (22:1-5).

B. So, Ahab called about four hundred of his prophets to see if the Lord would bless the campaign; they all in unison said He would indeed grant success (22:6, 10-12).

II. Micaiah’s Integrity

A. Apparently, Jehoshaphat was not altogether assured by the unanimous consent of these prophets, so he asked if there was any other (22:7).

B. Ahab reluctantly confessed to Jehoshaphat that there was one other prophet, though he preferred not to hear from him because he was not one of his yes men (22:8).

C. When pressured to parrot the other prophets, Micaiah vowed to speak only the truth the Lord revealed to him (22:13-14; cf. Acts 4:20; 1 Peter 4:11).

III. Courage Under Fire

A. Ahab made no bones about his hatred for Micaiah on account of his integrity (22:7).

B. The wicked prefer a distorted account of God’s will, often hating those who speak the truth (Jeremiah 5:31; 6:16-17; 7:4, 8; Acts 4:16-18, 21; Galatians 4:16; 2 Timothy 4:1-4).

C. After exposing the false prophets and speaking the truth, Micaiah took a blow to the face, was thrown in prison, and given only bread and water for sustenance (22:17-27).

D. Yet, he did not falter under the pressure, holding fast the truth God revealed to him (22:28; cf. Acts 4:19-20; 5:17-33; 2 Timothy 1:7-13; 2:1-4; 4:5).

Conclusion:

1. Though lacking the notoriety of the other prophets, Micaiah’s character is noteworthy.

2. We would all do well to emulate his dedication to truth-telling no matter the cost.

Further Food for Thought

1. Have you ever faced a situation where standing for truth would likely create enemies?

2. Have you ever allowed such a circumstance to silence you when you should have spoken?

3. How can we all take on Micaiah’s courageous dedication to truth regardless of its cost?