Bible study on Ahijah the Shilonite
A Bible study on Ahijah the Shilonite offers valuable insights into prophecy, divine judgment, and the consequences of disobedience. Here's a structured approach to exploring his role:
I. Introduction:
◦ Establish his identity as a prophet from Shiloh, a historically significant religious center.
◦ Note his time period: during the reigns of Solomon and Jeroboam.
◦ Emphasize his role as a messenger of God.
• Key Biblical Passages:
◦ 1 Kings 11:29-39: The prophecy of the kingdom's division.
◦ 1 Kings 14:1-18: The prophecy of judgment against Jeroboam's house.
◦ 2 Chronicles 10:15: Reference to Ahijah's role in the fulfillment of God's plan.
◦ Also reference 2 Chr 9:29, 1 Kings 12:15, 1 Kings 14:18, 1 Kings 15:29.
II. Key Themes and Analysis:
• The Prophecy of Division (1 Kings 11:29-39):
◦ Analyze the symbolic act of tearing the cloak.
◦ Discuss the reasons for the division: Solomon's disobedience and idolatry.
◦ Explore the concept of divine judgment and its consequences.
◦ Consider the soverignty of God, and how he uses people and events to carry out his plan.
• The Prophecy of Judgment (1 Kings 14:1-18):
◦ Examine the severity of the judgment against Jeroboam's house.
◦ Discuss the consequences of Jeroboam's idolatry and disobedience.
◦ Reflect on the importance of heeding God's warnings.
◦ Note the compassion of God, in that he allows Jeroboam's wife to be warned.
• Ahijah's Role as a Prophet:
◦ Discuss the characteristics of a true prophet: speaking God's words faithfully.
◦ Reflect on the challenges of delivering difficult messages.
◦ Consider the importance of obedience to God's calling.
• Historical Context:
◦ Understand the political and religious climate of the time.
◦ Recognize the significance of Shiloh as a former center of worship.
◦ Note the impact that the dividing of the kingdom had on the future of Israel.
III. Lessons and Applications:
• Obedience and Disobedience:
◦ Reflect on the consequences of disobedience, as seen in Solomon's and Jeroboam's lives.
◦ Emphasize the importance of obedience to God's commands.
• Divine Judgment:
◦ Discuss the concept of divine judgment and its relevance today.
◦ Consider the importance of repentance and seeking God's forgiveness.
• The Role of Prophecy:
◦ Reflect on the role of prophecy in revealing God's will.
◦ Discuss the importance of discerning true prophecy.
• God's Sovereignty:
◦ Note that even though bad things happen, God is still in control, and working out his plan.
- Preaching on Spiritual Conflict: What to do?
- Preaching on The Lord is a God of Battles
- Preaching on The Hiding Place of the Most High
IV. Conclusion:
• Summarize the key lessons learned from Ahijah's life and prophecies.
• Encourage personal reflection on obedience, judgment, and God's sovereignty.
• Emphasize the importance of seeking God's will and following His ways.
