How can we identify and support modern-day "Ahikams" in our church community? Setting the Scene: Ahikam in Scripture • 2 Kings 22:12, 14 – Ahikam son of Shaphan serves King Josiah and helps seek the word of the Lord from Huldah the prophetess. • Jeremiah 26:24 – “Nevertheless, Ahikam son of Shaphan supported Jeremiah, so that he was not handed over to the people to be put to death.” • 2 Chronicles 34:20 – Ahikam again named among those who facilitate national repentance. Core Traits of Ahikams • Courage to stand with God’s messengers even when that stand is costly. • Discernment that recognizes genuine prophetic truth amid confusion. • Influence within civic or church structures that can open doors for righteousness. • Steadfast loyalty to God’s word, not swayed by popular opinion. • Quiet, behind-the-scenes service that guards and preserves God’s people. Spotting Modern-Day Ahikams • Members with a reputation for calmly defusing conflict and protecting the vulnerable. • Leaders who ensure Scripture remains central in meetings, curricula, and decisions. • Believers who leverage professional or relational influence to shield gospel work. • Intercessors and encouragers who privately uphold pastors, missionaries, and truth-speakers. • Financial stewards who discreetly resource faithful ministries during opposition. Practical Ways to Support Them • Speak words of gratitude, affirming their often-unseen faithfulness (Romans 12:10). • Provide tangible help—time, skills, or finances—so they can keep championing truth (3 John 6-8). • Stand publicly with them when they are misunderstood or criticized (Proverbs 31:8-9). • Share reliable information and biblical resources that strengthen their discernment (Acts 17:11). • Pray consistently for their courage and protection, recognizing spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:18). • Encourage sabbath rest and accountability friendships that guard against burnout (Galatians 6:9-10). Fruit That Follows • Sound doctrine preserved and passed to the next generation (2 Timothy 2:2). • Prophetic voices like Jeremiah freed to speak without fear (Jeremiah 1:7-8). • Congregations knit together in unity around the truth (Ephesians 4:3-6). • Wider communities blessed as righteousness is promoted in public spheres (Proverbs 11:11). Honoring and uplifting modern-day Ahikams strengthens the entire body of Christ and keeps the witness of Scripture shining brightly in every season. |
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