Ahab’s son Ahaziah was far more wicked than he. He was opposed to all that Yahweh desired for Israel. Consequently it is no surprise that when he was injured in a fall that he did seek Yahweh for help or advice but instead consulted a pagan deity Baal-Zebub. This god was in direct conflict with Yahweh for he was known as the “lord of heaven”. Yet we also know that Baal-Zebub is associated with Satan for such a connection is made by Jesus Himself (Luke 11:14-20). It is no wonder that the Lord was sorely displeased with Ahaziah and sent Elijah to pronounce judgment on him. The King thought he could circumvent God and force Him to do his bidding when he attempted to seize control of God’s prophet. Ahaziah eventually found out who was really in control.
No one can control the Lord our God including governmental authorities. In our own land laws have been enacted to allow many sins to flourish including abortion, pornography, homosexuality and mistreatment of the poor and needy by the rich and powerful. No amount of legislation will change God’s Laws regarding these or any other sins. Therefore the church as God’s Kingdom must stand against compromise with legalized evil. Often, however, the church has neither responded with criticism nor proclaimed the truth usually in the interests of maintaining peace and encouraging tolerance. Yet if we were to stand boldly against the government and other churches and preachers who reward and encourage evil behavior, we may just find ourselves being protected by the power of God just as Elijah was. That would be great but we must also remember that we as the Church of Jesus Christ are called to speak the truth in love and with mercy not with bitter condemnation.
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