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majority consensus

1 Kings 22:1-53 (JDV)

1 Kings 22:1 There was no battle for three years between Aram and Israel.
1 Kings 22:2 However, in the third year, King Jehoshaphat of Judah went to visit the king of Israel.
1 Kings 22:3 The king of Israel had said to his servants, “Don’t you know that Ramoth-gilead is ours, but we’re doing nothing to take it from the king of Aram?”
1 Kings 22:4 So he asked Jehoshaphat, “Will you go with me to fight Ramoth-gilead?” Jehoshaphat replied to the king of Israel, “I am as you are, my people as your people, my horses as your horses.”
1 Kings 22:5 But Jehoshaphat said to the king of Israel, “First, please ask what Yahveh’s desire is.”
1 Kings 22:6 So the king of Israel gathered the prophets, about four hundred men, and asked them, “Should I go against Ramoth-gilead for war or should I refrain?” They replied, “March up, and Yahveh will hand it over to the king.”
1 Kings 22:7 But Jehoshaphat asked, “Isn’t there a prophet of Yahveh here anymore? Let’s ask him.”
1 Kings 22:8 The king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, “There is still one man who can inquire of the Lord, but I hate him because he never prophesies good about me, but only disaster. He is Micaiah son of Imlah.” “The king shouldn’t say that!” Jehoshaphat replied.
1 Kings 22:9 So the king of Israel called an officer and said, “Hurry and get Micaiah son of Imlah!”
1 Kings 22:10 Now the king of Israel and King Jehoshaphat of Judah, clothed in royal attire, were each sitting on his own throne. They were on the threshing floor at the entrance to the gate of Samaria, and all the prophets were prophesying in front of them.
1 Kings 22:11 Then Zedekiah son of Chenaanah made iron horns and said, “This is what Yahveh says: ‘You will gore the Arameans with these until they are finished off.'”
1 Kings 22:12 And all the prophets were prophesying the same: “March up to Ramoth-gilead and succeed, for Yahveh will hand it over to the king.”
1 Kings 22:13 The messenger who went to call Micaiah instructed him, “Look, the words of the prophets are unanimously favorable for the king. So let your words be like theirs and speak favorably.”
1 Kings 22:14 But Micaiah said, “As Yahveh lives, I will say whatever Yahveh says to me.”
1 Kings 22:15 So he went to the king, and the king asked him, “Micaiah, should we go to Ramoth-gilead for war, or should we refrain?” Micaiah told him, “March up and succeed. Yahveh will hand it over to the king.”
1 Kings 22:16 But the king said to him, “How many times must I make you swear not to tell me anything but the truth in the name of the Lord?”
1 Kings 22:17 So Micaiah said: I saw all Israel scattered on the hills like sheep without a shepherd. And Yahveh said, “They have no master; let everyone return home in peace.”
1 Kings 22:18 So the king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, “Didn’t I tell you he never prophesies good about me, but only disaster?”
1 Kings 22:19 Then Micaiah said, “Therefore, hear the word of the Lord: I saw Yahveh sitting on his throne, and the whole heavenly army was standing by him at his right hand and at his left hand.
1 Kings 22:20 And Yahveh said, ‘Who will entice Ahab to march up and fall at Ramoth-gilead? ‘ So, one was saying this and another was saying that.
1 Kings 22:21 “Then a breath came forward, stood in Yahveh ‘s presence, and said, ‘I will entice him.’
1 Kings 22:22 “Yahveh asked him, ‘How? ‘ “He said, ‘I will go and become a lying breath in the mouth of all his prophets.’ “Then he said, ‘You will certainly entice him and prevail. Go and do that.’
1 Kings 22:23 “You see, Yahveh has put a lying breath into the mouth of all these prophets of yours, and Yahveh has pronounced disaster against you.”
1 Kings 22:24 Then Zedekiah son of Chenaanah came up, hit Micaiah on the cheek, and demanded, “Did the Breath of Yahveh leave me to speak to you?”
1 Kings 22:25 Micaiah replied, “You will soon see when you go to hide in an inner chamber on that day.”
1 Kings 22:26 Then the king of Israel ordered, “Take Micaiah and return him to Amon, the governor of the city, and to Joash, the king’s son,
1 Kings 22:27 and say, ‘This is what the king says: Put this guy in prison and feed him only a little bread and water until I come back safely.'”
1 Kings 22:28 But Micaiah said, “If you ever return safely, Yahveh has not spoken through me.” Then he said, “Listen, all you people!”
1 Kings 22:29 Then the king of Israel and Judah’s King Jehoshaphat went up to Ramoth-gilead.
1 Kings 22:30 But the king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, “I will disguise myself and go into battle, but you wear your royal attire.” So, the king of Israel disguised himself and went into battle.
1 Kings 22:31 Now the king of Aram had ordered his thirty-two chariot commanders, “Do not fight with anyone at all except the king of Israel.”
1 Kings 22:32 When the chariot commanders saw Jehoshaphat, they shouted, “He must be the king of Israel!” So, they turned to fight against him, but Jehoshaphat cried out.
1 Kings 22:33 When the chariot commanders saw that he was not the king of Israel, they turned back from pursuing him.
1 Kings 22:34 But a man drew his bow without taking special aim and struck the king of Israel through the joints of his armor. So, he said to his charioteer, “Turn around and take me out of the battle, for I am badly wounded!”
1 Kings 22:35 The battle raged throughout that day, and the king was propped up in his chariot facing the Arameans. He died that evening, and blood from his wound flowed into the bottom of the chariot.
1 Kings 22:36 Then the cry rang out in the army as the sun set, declaring: Each man to his own city, and each man to his own land!
1 Kings 22:37 So the king died and was brought to Samaria. They buried the king in Samaria.
1 Kings 22:38 Then someone washed the chariot at the pool of Samaria. The dogs licked up his blood, and the prostitutes bathed in it, according to the word of Yahveh that he had spoken.
1 Kings 22:39 The rest of the events of Ahab’s reign, along with all his accomplishments, including the ivory palace he built, and all the cities he built, are written in the Historical Record of Israel’s Kings.
1 Kings 22:40 Ahab rested with his fathers, and his son Ahaziah became king in his place.
1 Kings 22:41 Jehoshaphat son of Asa became king over Judah in the fourth year of Israel’s King Ahab.
1 Kings 22:42 Jehoshaphat was thirty-five years old when he became king; he reigned twenty-five years in Jerusalem. His mother’s name was Azubah daughter of Shilhi.
1 Kings 22:43 He walked in all the ways of his father Asa; he did not turn away from them, but did what was right in Yahveh’s sight. However, the high places were not taken away; the people still sacrificed and burned incense on the high places.
1 Kings 22:44 Jehoshaphat also made peace with the king of Israel.
1 Kings 22:45 The rest of the events of Jehoshaphat’s reign, along with the might he exercised and how he waged war, are written in the Historical Record of Judah’s Kings.
1 Kings 22:46 He eradicated from the land the rest of the male cult prostitutes who were left from the days of his father Asa.
1 Kings 22:47 There was no king in Edom; a deputy served as king.
1 Kings 22:48 Jehoshaphat made ships of Tarshish to go to Ophir for gold, but they did not go because the ships were wrecked at Ezion-geber.
1 Kings 22:49 At that time, Ahaziah son of Ahab said to Jehoshaphat, “Let my servants go with your servants in the ships,” but Jehoshaphat was not willing.
1 Kings 22:50 Jehoshaphat rested with his fathers and was buried with them in the city of his ancestor David. His son Jehoram became king in his place.
1 Kings 22:51 Ahaziah son of Ahab became king over Israel in Samaria in the seventeenth year of Judah’s King Jehoshaphat, and he reigned over Israel two years.
1 Kings 22:52 He did what was evil in Yahveh ‘s sight. He walked in the ways of his father, in the ways of his mother, and in the ways of Jeroboam son of Nebat, who had caused Israel to sin.
1 Kings 22:53 He served Baal and bowed in worship to him. He angered Yahveh God of Israel just as his father had done.

majority consensus

The theological consensus that existed among the prophets of Israel in the time of Ahab was not unity. It was mutual deception. Some wanted to believe that there would be victory against Syria. Others (at least Micaiah) were convinced that there would be defeat. But they were all saying the same thing. We should be careful when the majority believes and teaches something, without paying any attention to the arguments against it. That kind of consensus can lead to disaster.

LORD, give us discernment.

Books by Jefferson Vann

• 148 Days with the Coming King is a compelling devotional journey designed to inspire spiritual growth and reflection over a period of 148 days. Throughout this transformative experience, readers will engage with profound insights, reflective prompts, and meditative practices aimed at deepening their understanding of faith. It includes a full new translation of Matthew’s Gospel.

• An Advent Christian Systematic Theology (volume 1) – This book is the first volume in a comprehensive series exploring the doctrinal foundations and theological interpretations of the Advent Christian denomination, aiming to provide readers with an in-depth understanding of its unique beliefs and practices as they relate to systematic theology. This volume introduces the study, and answers questions about God and how he has revealed things to humans. It also includes an appendix of selected articles on the exclusive immortality of God.

• An Advent Christian Systematic Theology (volume 2) – A comprehensive exploration of doctrines and theological concepts within the Advent Christian tradition, this volume offers readers insights into historical context, biblical references, and practical applications for contemporary faith practice. Whether for personal study or academic research, it serves as a valuable resource for understanding the depth and richness of Advent Christian theology. This volume specifically covers the doctrine humanity and sin. It also includes an appendix on human mortality and on the intermediate state.

• An Advent Christian Systematic Theology (Volume 3) – This volume is part of a comprehensive series that delves deeper into the systematic theology from an Advent Christian perspective, providing insightful analysis and interpretation of theological concepts, offering both historical context and contemporary relevance for readers interested in the rich tradition of Advent Christian beliefs and practices. This volume treats the doctrines concerning Christ, the Holy Spirit, Angels and Demons, Salvation and the Church.

• An Advent Christian Systematic Theology (Volume 4) – This volume represents a comprehensive exploration of the theological tenets unique to the Advent Christian denomination. It delves deeply into topics such as salvation, the nature of God, and eschatology, offering readers an in-depth understanding of Advent Christian beliefs. Essential for both scholars and laypeople interested in systematic theology, this work is a crucial addition to any theological library. This volume treats the doctrine of eschatology and includes indices on the resurrection and final punishment.

• Another Bible Commentary – This commentary offers insightful interpretations and detailed analysis of all the biblical texts, making it valuable for both scholars and readers seeking to deepen their understanding of scripture. The author, Jefferson Vann, has crafted a resource that blends traditional biblical scholarship with contemporary relevance, appealing to a broad audience interested in theological studies and practical application of biblical principles in everyday life.

• Devotions from Exodus – A profound collection that offers rich reflections and spiritual insights, ideal for both personal contemplation and group study, leading readers through the important themes and lessons within the Book of Exodus, promoting a deeper understanding of faith and divine guidance. It includes a new translation from the original Hebrew.

• Devotions from Leviticus – A comprehensive devotional that deeply explores themes found in the book of Leviticus, offering insights and reflections to guide personal spiritual growth and understanding of biblical principles in everyday life. . It includes a new translation from the original Hebrew.

• Devotions from Mark’s Gospel – A comprehensive and inspiring collection of spiritual reflections and meditations based on the Gospel of Mark, aimed at deepening one’s faith and understanding of the teachings of Jesus. This work can serve as a valuable resource for personal study, group discussions, or devotional reading, encouraging readers to engage more deeply with the scriptures and apply their lessons to daily life. It includes a new translation from the original Greek.

• finding gold in Genesis – This fascinating book delves deep into the transformative messages within the Book of Genesis, providing readers with practical insights and a fresh perspective on biblical stories, making it an invaluable resource for personal growth and spiritual enrichment. . It includes a new translation from the original Hebrew.

• The Coming King – This book offers a profound insight into the themes and messages found within the text of Matthew’s Gospel. It serves not only as a translation but also as an illuminating commentary that guides readers through the intricate layers of meaning and interpretation, making it an essential read for anyone interested in biblical studies and spiritual growth. . It includes a new translation from the original Greek.

• The Piney Grove Pulpit #1 – This gripping book is an essential read for anyone interested in profound spiritual insights and valuable lessons from the pulpit, aptly highlighting the wisdom and teachings that have resonated through years within the Piney Grove community. It contains sermons preached from October 2019 to October 2020.

• The Piney Grove Pulpit #2– This gripping book is an essential read for anyone interested in profound spiritual insights and valuable lessons from the pulpit, aptly highlighting the wisdom and teachings that have resonated through generations within the Piney Grove community. It contains sermons preached from September to December 2020.

• The Piney Grove Pulpit #3 – This gripping book is an essential read for anyone interested in profound spiritual insights and valuable lessons from the pulpit, aptly highlighting the wisdom and teachings that have resonated through generations within the Piney Grove community. It contains sermons preached from January to April 2021.

• The Piney Grove Pulpit #4 – This gripping book is an essential read for anyone interested in profound spiritual insights and valuable lessons from the pulpit, aptly highlighting the wisdom and teachings that have resonated through generations within the Piney Grove community. It contains sermons preached from April to August 2021.

• The Piney Grove Pulpit #5 – This gripping book is an essential read for anyone interested in profound spiritual insights and valuable lessons from the pulpit, aptly highlighting the wisdom and teachings that have resonated through generations within the Piney Grove community. It contains sermons preached from August to November 2021.

• Words from the Collector is a captivating exploration of the Old Testament Book of Ecclesiastes. It includes a new translation and devotional commentary of the book. The Collector is Solomon as an old man, who collected wisdom to pass on to the next generation. It includes a new translation from the original Hebrew.

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