(1 KINGS 20:35-43)

I. The historical setting

A. Israel’s King Ahab (1 Kings 16:29-30; 21:25-26)
B. Victory over Syria (1 Kings 20:21)
C. Blasphemy of the Syrians (1 Kings 20:23-25)
D. The Lord’s response (1 Kings 20:28)
E. Another victory over Syria (1 Kings 20:29-30)
F. King Ahab’s failure to obey (1 Kings 20:31-34)

II. The parable

A. The prophet’s disguise (1 Kings 20:35-38)
B. The scenario presented (1 Kings 20:39-40)
C. The king’s sin exposed (1 Kings 20:41-43)

III. Lessons for today

A. Sometimes God’s commands are difficult to obey – but why? (1 Corinthians 6:9-10; 5:4-5, 11, 13; 1 John 5:3)
B. Priorities matter! (Colossians 3:1-4)
C. Complete obedience is necessary (Romans 12:1-2)