How should believers respond when God speaks through others, as in 1 Kings 21:28? The Setting of 1 Kings 21:28 “Then the word of the LORD came to Elijah the Tishbite, saying,”. God had already spoken judgment on Ahab for Naboth’s murder (vv. 17-24). After Ahab’s unexpected mourning and fasting, the Lord spoke again—this time to reassure Elijah that the king’s humble response would delay disaster (vv. 27-29). Even the most hardened ruler heard God only because He chose to relay His word through a prophet. Key Observations • God’s message arrived “again” (v. 28); divine speech is not a one-time event but can be repeated for clarity or correction. • The channel was a fallible human—Elijah. Yet the content was infallible truth. • Ahab’s earlier evil did not cancel the possibility of hearing God’s voice when he finally humbled himself (v. 29). Why God Still Uses Human Messengers • He delights to involve His servants in His work (Amos 3:7). • Human speech reaches human hearts in relatable language (Romans 10:14-15). • The presence of a messenger tests our responsiveness and humility (Luke 7:29-30). Right Heart Responses When God Speaks Through Others • Humility: recognize God may confront us through someone we would not have chosen (2 Samuel 12:7-13). • Discernment: “Test all things; hold fast to what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:20-21). • Obedience: act promptly on what aligns with Scripture (James 1:22). • Gratitude: thank God for loving correction (Proverbs 9:8-9). • Ongoing surrender: keep a soft heart; “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts” (Hebrews 3:7-8). Scriptural Models of Proper Response • David and Nathan (2 Samuel 12) – immediate repentance once truth was revealed. • Cornelius and Peter (Acts 10) – eager acceptance of instruction that led to salvation. • Apollos and Priscilla & Aquila (Acts 18:24-28) – teachable spirit that produced greater effectiveness. Practical Steps for Everyday Life 1. Stay anchored in the written Word; every external message must harmonize with Scripture (Isaiah 8:20). 2. Maintain regular fellowship so God-given counsel can reach you (Hebrews 10:24-25). 3. Invite accountability; wise believers welcome correction (Proverbs 27:6). 4. Keep short accounts with God; quick repentance keeps the heart tender (Psalm 139:23-24). 5. Share confirmed messages with courage and gentleness, following Elijah’s example of faithful delivery (Ephesians 4:15). |
    |