This week’s episode: “The Fall of Ahab, Elijah Rides the Whirlwind” (Episode 8 in the Kings and Prophets series) will drop on Thursday. For those studying along with us as we journey through the stories of 1 and 2 Kings here is your assigned reading for the week:

This Week’s Recommended Reading

• 1 Kings 20, 21
• 2 Kings 1, 2

Considerations As You Read

King Ahab of the northern kingdom of Israel is a picture of God’s mercy and patience. Even  after all he and his wife Jezebel had done, God was willing to extend mercy. Ahab was willing to receive that mercy when times were hard, but he took matters into his own hands when times were good.

1. Do I change my approach to God when times are hard compared to when times are good? How can I adjust that? 

The story of Naboth’s Vineyard takes up a surprising amount of space in the Old Testament. It is not just here in the story of Ahab but later in the books of the prophets we find it referenced. God places a lot of emphasis on social justice and condemning injustice within the prophetic books.

2. How does this focus on justice and opposing oppression and injustice fit into my theology and beliefs?