How can we apply the lesson of obedience from 1 Kings 20:35 today? Verse for Today “Meanwhile, by the word of the LORD, one of the sons of the prophets said to his companion, ‘Strike me!’ But the man refused to strike him.” (1 Kings 20:35) The Context • Israel is at war with Aram. • God speaks through an unnamed prophet, giving very specific instructions—startling ones—to illustrate judgment for King Ahab’s disobedience. • The prophet’s companion refuses, treating the command as optional; the prophet declares judgment, and a lion kills the disobedient man (vv. 36–37). • A second man obeys, wounding the prophet. The acted-out parable reaches Ahab, exposing the king’s failure to obey God’s clear command to destroy Ben-hadad. Core Truths about Obedience • God’s commands are never arbitrary. Even when they seem strange, they serve His holy purposes. • Partial or delayed obedience equals disobedience (cf. 1 Samuel 15:22–23). • Obedience protects; disobedience exposes us to loss. • God’s word spoken through Scripture carries the same weight as His verbal instruction to the prophet. • Obedience often costs something—comfort, reputation, convenience—yet it yields God’s favor and fellowship. Bringing It Home 1. Treat every biblical command as non-negotiable. – “Why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I say?” (Luke 6:46) 2. Respond immediately. – The companion’s hesitation proved fatal; quick, trusting action marks true faith. 3. Embrace the uncomfortable. – Speaking hard truth, forgiving an enemy, or refusing compromise may feel as odd as striking a prophet, yet God’s wisdom stands behind each command. 4. Guard against selective obedience. – Scripture addresses money, sexuality, speech, justice, worship, and more. A surrendered heart obeys in every area. 5. Remember the witness factor. – The obedient wound allowed the prophet to stand before Ahab and confront national sin; our obedience positions us to influence others for Christ. New Testament Echoes • John 14:15: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • James 1:22: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” • Matthew 7:24: “Everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” These verses confirm that the call to full, prompt obedience transcends covenants and cultures. Closing Encouragement God never asks anything He will not enable. The same Lord who required a prophet to be struck empowers us today through His Spirit to live out every directive in His Word. As we submit without reservation, we discover the safety, joy, and fruitfulness He designed for all who obey. |
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