What other biblical figures were led astray by ungodly influences? Root Verse 2 Chronicles 21:6: “And Jehoram walked in the ways of the kings of Israel, just as the house of Ahab had done, for he had married a daughter of Ahab, and he did evil in the sight of the LORD.” Why It Matters Jehoram’s story shows how a single relationship can divert an otherwise blessed lineage. Scripture repeatedly records similar turns. Below are some of the clearest examples. Wisest King, Wrong Company – Solomon • Foreign wives “turned his heart after other gods.” • The fruit: high-place worship, child sacrifice influences, and eventual division of the kingdom. Muscle Without Discernment – Samson • Delilah’s persistent coaxing led him to break his Nazirite vow. • The result: lost strength, sight, and freedom. Bad Advice at the Throne – Rehoboam • Ignored seasoned elders, followed immature peers. • Heavy yoke imposed; ten tribes rebelled. Faith Borrowed, Then Lost – King Joash • Thrived under godly Jehoiada; crumbled once new officials flattered him. • Slipped into idolatry and ordered Zechariah’s murder. Friends over Fear of God – Peter at Antioch • Feared the “circumcision group,” withdrew from Gentile believers. • Even Barnabas was “led astray by their hypocrisy.” Love of the World – Demas • “Because he loved this world, he has deserted me.” • Contrast with earlier faithfulness in Colossians 4:14. Lingering Near Sodom – Lot’s Household • Genesis 13:11-13; 19:26 • Gradual move toward Sodom exposed family to its corruption. • Wife’s backward glance showed a heart tethered to ungodliness. Complaining Contagion – Israel’s Mixed Multitude • The “rabble” craved meat, infecting Israel with discontent. • Led to judgment by fire and later, excessive quail with plague. Hidden Greed – Ananias and Sapphira • Acts 5:3 • Peter: “Why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit?” • External pressure to appear generous birthed fatal deception. Lessons Threaded Through Each Account • Ungodly influences often appear in the form of close relationships—spouse, friend, advisor. • The drift is usually gradual: hearts turn before actions follow. • Influence can work both ways—our faith or our compromise spreads to those around us. • Returning to wholehearted devotion remains possible (e.g., Manasseh in 2 Chronicles 33), yet repentance becomes harder the longer the influence is entertained. Staying Anchored • Psalm 119:11 – Hiding God’s Word in the heart guards against sin. • 1 Corinthians 15:33 – “Bad company corrupts good character.” • Hebrews 10:24-25 – Mutual encouragement strengthens resolve to stay the course. |
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