This is part of a video series covering the entire Bible in 4 years, one chapter at a time. Start at the beginning with Genesis 1 (Youtube link: https://youtu.be/wC2qD4RGOdo)) and work through the playlist. Or go to https://www.peace.org.au/bible.html for more information.
In this video listen to 1 Kings Chapter 21, read by David Alley, followed by comments and prayer.
In 1 Kings Chapter 21 despite following the baals, the northern nation, still acknowledges and has knowledge of the laws of God. This chapter outlines the story of Naboth’s vineyard in which the law of LEviticues 25:23 is broken by Ahab and Jezebel.
Leviticus 25:23 says “the land must not be sold permanently.” Despite this, Jezebel forcibly takes this land of Naboth and gives it to her husband.
Ahab’s great sin was in allowing Jezebel to do this. He “tolerated Jezebel” which the church in the city of Thyatira also did, in Revelations chapter 2. While he could not actually be responsible for her choices, because he could have resisted, he allowed it instead.
He might have felt it was ok to do this by justifying that he hadn’t done anything wrong. Many people justify their actions. We saw earlier with King David, that he refused to participate in anything that even hinted of wrongdoing. Even cutting the corner off Saul’s robe grieved him.
Imagine a church split where someone doesn't actively cause the split, but they celebrate it’s happening. Their love for the results indicate their heart was a participant and they approved of what happened. No amount of justification can make it ok. Repentance, humility and amends are required.
Weirdly, he actually humbled himself and the Lord noticed. Ahab had the potential to be Israel’s only good king, but his humility didn’t seem to last.
Nov 23, 2021 | Message by David Alley