Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionThe concept of a "lying spirit" sent by God is a topic that arises in the context of divine sovereignty and human responsibility. It is primarily discussed in the Old Testament, where God permits or sends a lying spirit to accomplish His purposes. This entry explores the biblical passages that address this phenomenon, providing insight into its theological implications. Biblical References 1. 1 Kings 22:19-23 : The most direct reference to a lying spirit sent by God is found in the account of Micaiah the prophet. King Ahab of Israel seeks counsel about going to war against Ramoth-gilead. Micaiah initially mocks the king by echoing the false prophets, but when pressed, he reveals a vision: > "Micaiah continued, 'Therefore hear the word of the LORD: I saw the LORD sitting on His throne, and all the host of heaven standing by Him on His right and on His left. And the LORD said, "Who will entice Ahab to march up and fall at Ramoth-gilead?" And one suggested this, and another that. Then a spirit came forward, stood before the LORD, and said, "I will entice him." "By what means?" asked the LORD. And he replied, "I will go out and be a lying spirit in the mouths of all his prophets." "You will surely entice him and prevail," said the LORD. "Go and do it." So you see, the LORD has put a lying spirit in the mouths of all these prophets of yours, and the LORD has pronounced disaster against you.'" This passage illustrates God's sovereign control over all spiritual beings, including those that deceive. The lying spirit is permitted by God to fulfill His judgment against Ahab, who has persistently rejected God's truth. 2. 2 Chronicles 18:18-22 : This passage parallels the account in 1 Kings, reiterating the same vision and the role of the lying spirit. It underscores the consistency of the biblical narrative regarding God's use of spiritual agents to accomplish His will. Theological Implications · Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility: The sending of a lying spirit by God raises questions about the interplay between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. While God permits the lying spirit, Ahab's downfall is ultimately due to his own choices and rejection of God's truth. This reflects the biblical theme that God can use even deception to bring about His righteous purposes, without being the author of sin. · Judgment and Deception: The lying spirit serves as an instrument of judgment. Ahab's persistent idolatry and rebellion against God lead to his deception and eventual downfall. This demonstrates that when individuals reject God's truth, they may be given over to deception as a form of divine judgment (cf. Romans 1:24-28). · Prophetic Integrity: The account highlights the integrity of true prophecy versus false prophecy. Micaiah stands in contrast to the false prophets who are influenced by the lying spirit. This distinction emphasizes the importance of discerning true prophetic voices that align with God's revealed word. Conclusion The concept of a lying spirit from God, as depicted in the Bible, serves as a profound reminder of God's ultimate authority over all creation, including spiritual entities. It challenges believers to trust in God's wisdom and justice, even when His methods are beyond human understanding. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 22:21-23And there came forth a spirit, and stood before the LORD, and said, I will persuade him. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 18:20-22 Library The Testament of Dan Concerning Anger and Lying. Grieving the Spirit Magic and Sorcery Only Apparent in their Effects God Alone Can ... Of Lying Defamation. Epistle Lxi. To Pomponius, Concerning Some virgins. Men, Being by Nature the Children of Wrath, Needed a Mediator. In ... "But Ye are not in the Flesh, but in the Spirit, if So be that the ... The Doctrine of the Holy Spirit The Deity of the Holy Spirit. The Apple Trees Resources What does the Bible say about a false witness? | GotQuestions.orgCan God lie? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about cheating in school? | GotQuestions.org Lying: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Lying: A Characteristic of the Apostasy Lying: False Prophets Addicted To Lying: False Witnesses Addicted To Lying: Folly of Concealing Hatred By Lying: Leads to Love of Impure Conversation Lying: Often Accompanied by Gross Crimes Lying: Saints: Pray to be Preserved From Lying: Saints: Reject Those Who Practise Lying: Saints: Respect not Those Who Practise Lying: The Devil Excites Men To Lying: The Devil, the Father of Lying: The Evil of Rulers Hearkening To Lying: The Wicked: Addicted To, from Their Infancy Lying: The Wicked: Bring Forth Lying: The Wicked: Give Heed To Lying: The Wicked: Prepare Their Tongues For Lying: They Who are Guilty of, Shall be Cast Into Hell Lying: Vanity of Getting Riches By Related Terms |
    |