What does 1 Kings 14:5 reveal about God's communication with His prophets? Setting the Scene Jeroboam’s sick child prompts his wife to visit the prophet Ahijah in Shiloh. She disguises herself, but… 1 Kings 14:5 — “But the LORD had said to Ahijah, ‘Behold, the wife of Jeroboam is coming to ask you about her son, for he is ill. You are to say such and such to her. When she reaches the door, she will feign herself to be another woman.’” Key Observations from 1 Kings 14:5 • God initiates the conversation: “the LORD had said to Ahijah.” • The message is clear and verbal, not impressionistic. • Divine foreknowledge is detailed: God names the visitor, her purpose, her disguise. • Specific instructions are given: “You are to say such and such to her.” • Timing is precise: revelation comes before the visitor arrives. • The prophet is fully prepared; nothing surprises him. What This Teaches About God’s Communication with His Prophets • Direct Revelation – God speaks plainly, using intelligible words (cf. Numbers 12:6-8). • Omniscient Insight – He discloses hidden motives and future actions (cf. Hebrews 4:13). • Authoritative Instruction – The prophet receives an exact script, ensuring the message is God’s, not his own (cf. Jeremiah 1:7). • Protective Preparation – By alerting Ahijah, God safeguards His prophet from deception (cf. 2 Kings 6:12). • Timeliness – God reveals information at the precise moment it is needed (cf. Isaiah 46:10). Supporting Scriptures • Amos 3:7 — “Surely the Lord GOD does nothing without revealing His plan to His servants the prophets.” • 2 Kings 6:12 — Elisha knows the private words of the king of Aram. • John 13:19 — Jesus tells His disciples beforehand so they will believe. • Isaiah 44:26 — God “confirms the word of His servant and fulfills the counsel of His messengers.” Takeaway Implications for Believers Today • God’s word is certain and precise; trust its literal accuracy. • Nothing is hidden from the Lord; He sees through every disguise. • When God speaks, He equips His servants with exactly what they need to say. • Divine revelation always serves His larger redemptive purpose—even hard messages, as Ahijah would soon deliver, flow from God’s sovereign plan. |
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