2 Chronicles 18:2

And some years later he went down to visit Ahab in Samaria, where Ahab sacrificed many sheep and cattle for him and the people with him, and urged him to march up to Ramoth-gilead.

Study Bible

And some years later
This phrase indicates a passage of time since the events of the previous chapter. Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, had established his reign and strengthened his kingdom. The "some years later" suggests a period of stability and prosperity in Judah before this visit to Ahab, king of Israel.

he went down to visit Ahab in Samaria
Samaria was the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, established by King Omri, Ahab's father. The phrase "went down" is a geographical reference, as Jerusalem, where Jehoshaphat ruled, is at a higher elevation than Samaria. This visit signifies a political alliance or at least a gesture of goodwill between the two kingdoms, which were often at odds.

where Ahab sacrificed many sheep and cattle for him and the people with him
Sacrificing animals was a common practice in ancient Near Eastern cultures to honor guests and deities. Ahab's lavish sacrifices indicate an attempt to impress Jehoshaphat and secure his favor. This act of hospitality also reflects the wealth and resources of Ahab's kingdom.

and urged him to march up to Ramoth-gilead
Ramoth-gilead was a strategically important city located east of the Jordan River. It had been a point of contention between Israel and Aram (Syria). Ahab's urging suggests a desire to reclaim or secure this territory, possibly indicating ongoing conflict with Aram. This request sets the stage for the subsequent military campaign and highlights the political motivations behind Ahab's hospitality.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoshaphat
The king of Judah, known for his faithfulness to God, yet he made alliances that were questionable, such as with Ahab.

2. Ahab
The king of Israel, notorious for his idolatry and wickedness, married to Jezebel, and often in conflict with the prophets of God.

3. Samaria
The capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, where Ahab reigned and where Jehoshaphat visited.

4. Ramoth-gilead
A strategic city east of the Jordan River, often contested between Israel and Aram (Syria).

5. Alliance and Feast
Ahab's slaughtering of sheep and cattle for Jehoshaphat signifies a political alliance and hospitality, but also a potential compromise of Jehoshaphat's values.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Unequal Alliances
Jehoshaphat's alliance with Ahab serves as a cautionary tale about forming partnerships that may compromise one's faith and values.

The Influence of Companionship
The company we keep can significantly impact our spiritual journey, as seen in Jehoshaphat's decision-making influenced by Ahab.

Discernment in Decision-Making
Believers are called to seek God's guidance and wisdom, especially when making decisions that involve alliances or partnerships.

Hospitality vs. Compromise
While hospitality is a virtue, it should not lead to compromising one's principles or aligning with ungodly influences.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Jehoshaphat's decision to visit Ahab, and how does it apply to our relationships today?

2. How does the account of Jehoshaphat and Ahab challenge us to evaluate our alliances and partnerships?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our decisions are guided by God's wisdom rather than worldly influences?

4. How does the account of Jehoshaphat and Ahab illustrate the importance of seeking counsel from godly sources?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a decision involving a potential compromise. How did you handle it, and what biblical principles guided you?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 22
Provides a parallel account of the events, offering additional insights into the dynamics between Ahab and Jehoshaphat.

2 Chronicles 19:2
The prophet Jehu rebukes Jehoshaphat for helping the wicked, highlighting the spiritual danger of his alliance with Ahab.

Proverbs 13:20
Warns about the influence of companions, relevant to Jehoshaphat's association with Ahab.