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:

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I. Introduction:

• Who was Ahijah?

◦ 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.

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.

Bible study on Ahijah the Shilonite