Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible

(Jeff_L) #1

Verses 29–40


Ahab basely intended to betray Johoshaphat to danger, that he might secure himself. See what
they get that join with wicked men. How can it be expected that he should be true to his friend,
who has been false to his God! He had said in compliment to Ahab, I am as thou art, and now he
was indeed taken for him. Those that associate with evil-doers, are in danger of sharing in their
plagues. By Jehoshaphat's deliverance, God let him know, that though he was displeased with him,
yet he had not deserted him. God is a friend that will not fail us when other friends do. Let no man
think to hide himself from God's judgment. God directed the arrow to hit Ahab; those cannot escape
with life, whom God has doomed to death. Ahab lived long enough to see part of Micaiah's prophecy
accomplished. He had time to feel himself die; with what horror must he have thought upon the
wickedness he had committed!


Verses 41–50


Jehoshaphat's reign appears to have been one of the best, both as to piety and prosperity. He
pleased God, and God blessed him.


Verses 51–53


Ahaziah's reign was very short, not two years; some sinners God makes quick work with. A
very bad character is given of him; he listened not to instruction, took no warning, but followed
the example of his wicked father, and the counsel of his more wicked mother, Jezebel, who was
still living. Miserable are the children who not only derive a sinful nature from their parents, but
are taught by them to increase it; and most unhappy parents are they, that help to damn their
children's souls. Hardened sinners rush forward, unawed and unmoved, in the ways from which
others before them have been driven into everlasting misery.

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