What can we learn about alliances from Jehoshaphat's decision in this verse? Setting the scene “Then Ahab king of Israel asked Jehoshaphat king of Judah, ‘Will you go with me to fight at Ramoth-gilead?’ Jehoshaphat replied, ‘I am like you, and my people are your people; we will join you in the battle.’ ” (2 Chronicles 18:3) Jehoshaphat was a godly reformer (2 Chronicles 17:3–6) but he had cemented family ties with the wicked house of Ahab (18:1). His ready “yes” exposes how easily even a sincere believer can be pulled into questionable partnerships. Jehoshaphat’s quick agreement • Ahab’s invitation was attractive: mutual defense, regional security, prestige. • Jehoshaphat answered before seeking the LORD, though he immediately tried to back-up and do so in v. 4. • The alliance almost cost him his life (18:28-34) and brought prophetic rebuke (19:2). What went right—and where he faltered What Jehoshaphat did well: • Maintained a heart that ultimately respected God’s word (18:4). • Humbled himself when corrected (19:1-3). Where he stumbled: • Assumed surface unity (“I am like you”) was enough. • Overlooked Ahab’s history of idolatry, injustice, and hatred for God’s prophets (18:7-17). • Risked Judah’s welfare by tying it to an ungodly king. Scriptural principles about alliances 1. Seek divine counsel first. ‑ “Inquire first for the word of the LORD.” (2 Chronicles 18:4) 2. Refuse bonds that aid the wicked. ‑ “Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the LORD? Because of this, wrath has gone out against you.” (2 Chronicles 19:2) 3. Guard against unequal yokes. ‑ “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14) 4. Choose companions who draw you toward holiness. ‑ “He who walks with the wise will become wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.” (Proverbs 13:20) ‑ “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked.” (Psalm 1:1) Avoiding Jehoshaphat’s mistake today • Business deals, political causes, dating, marriage, ministry partnerships—all can reflect the same dynamics. • Evaluate partners by their loyalty to Christ, not merely by shared goals or family ties. • A short-term gain never justifies long-term spiritual compromise. • Love and serve unbelievers, yet reserve covenant-level alliances for those who honor God. A checklist for God-honoring alliances Before joining forces, ask: 1. Does this partner revere the authority of Scripture? 2. Will the alliance advance God's kingdom or merely personal interests? 3. Have I prayed and searched the Word for confirmation? 4. Would joining expose me—or others—to temptation or harm? 5. Will our combined witness glorify Christ? Encouragement for walking wisely Jehoshaphat’s story warns but also reassures. When he humbled himself, God extended grace and restored him (19:3-4). The same Lord stands ready to guide believers who pause, seek His counsel, and choose alliances that honor Him. |
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