What can we learn about God's justice from Ahijah's message in 1 Kings 14:6? Setting the Scene Jeroboam, king of the northern tribes, has turned Israel to idolatry (1 Kings 12:28–30). When his son falls gravely ill, he sends his wife, disguised, to consult the aged prophet Ahijah. Although Ahijah is blind, the Lord forewarns him (1 Kings 14:1–5). Verse 6 captures the prophet’s first words as she enters. Verse 6 in Focus “But when Ahijah heard the sound of her footsteps as she came through the door, he said, ‘Come in, wife of Jeroboam! Why this pretense? I have been sent to you with bad news.’” (1 Kings 14:6) What God’s Justice Looks Like in This Moment • God sees through every disguise. – cf. Hebrews 4:13; Psalm 139:1–4 • Justice exposes hidden motives: “Why this pretense?” • The verdict comes from God, not the prophet: “I have been sent to you.” • Justice can be “bad news” for the unrepentant (14:7–16), yet it is always righteous. Justice Cuts Through Human Pretense • Deception cannot shield us from divine scrutiny. • Religious or political status (a king’s household) offers no immunity. • God addresses sin directly, naming both the sinner and the sin (Jeroboam’s idolatry). Justice Rooted in Covenant Faithfulness • God had promised blessing for obedience and discipline for rebellion (Deuteronomy 28). • Jeroboam knew the terms: “If you walk in My ways… I will be with you” (1 Kings 11:38). • Ahijah’s message shows God keeps covenant—both its promises and its warnings. Justice That Warns and Calls • Even the “bad news” is merciful: it exposes sin while time remains to repent. • Romans 2:4 reminds us that God’s kindness—including His truthful warnings—leads to repentance. • The prophetic word becomes a mirror: will Jeroboam’s household humble itself? Lessons for Us Today • God’s justice is omniscient—no secret, mask, or motive is hidden. • He judges impartially; titles and positions do not sway Him (Acts 10:34). • Ignoring known truth brings certain discipline; clinging to idols invites judgment. • Receiving God’s word honestly is the first step toward mercy and restoration (Psalm 51:17). |
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