The Danger Of Ignoring True Prophetic Voices Series

THE DANGER OF IGNORING TRUE PROPHETIC VOICES

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Kings 22:1-40

Supporting Texts: 2 Timothy 4:3-4; Amos 3:7; Proverbs 14:12; Hebrews 3:15; Jeremiah 23:16-17

INTRODUCTION:

1 Kings 22 closes the first book of Kings with a sobering account of King Ahab’s final decision—a decision that ultimately led to his death. In alliance with King Jehoshaphat of Judah, Ahab sought to reclaim Ramoth-Gilead from the Syrians. But before going to battle, Jehoshaphat insisted on hearing from a prophet of the Lord.

Although Ahab had 400 prophets who echoed his desires, there was only one man—Micaiah—who had the courage to speak what God was truly saying. Despite Micaiah’s warning, Ahab chose to believe the flattering voices over divine truth. The result was tragic: Ahab died exactly as the prophet declared.

This chapter teaches that truth is not always popular, and prophetic voices are often rejected in favour of convenience and comfort. Yet, God still honours His word—even when ignored.

1. POPULAR OPINION IS NOT ALWAYS PROPHETIC TRUTH

Ahab surrounded himself with prophets who spoke what he wanted to hear.

a) “Go up, for the Lord will deliver it into the hand of the king.” (1 Kings 22:6)

When leaders desire affirmation more than truth, deception prevails.

b) Prophets who fear men will compromise divine instruction

The 400 prophets lacked the courage to speak God’s true word.

c) The truth is never determined by the majority, but by divine authority

God does not conform to consensus.

d) True prophetic ministry must speak from the throne room, not from the king’s table

Micaiah stood apart because he feared God more than Ahab.

Biblical Example: In Jeremiah’s time, the false prophets declared peace when God had declared judgment (Jeremiah 6:13-14).

2. TRUE PROPHETS ARE OFTEN HATED AND REJECTED

Ahab confessed that he hated Micaiah because he never spoke good things to him.

a) “I hate him, because he does not prophesy good concerning me, but evil.” (1 Kings 22:8)

Rebellious hearts resent correction and reject divine warnings.

b) A true prophet’s role is not to entertain but to confront

God’s messengers are called to turn people to righteousness.

c) The flesh despises any message that demands repentance or change

But truth is meant to save, not flatter.

d) God often places true prophets in environments where they are unpopular

Their rejection is part of their calling.

Biblical Example: Jesus said, “A prophet is not without honour, except in his own country” (Mark 6:4).

3. GOD SOMETIMES ALLOWS DECEPTION TO TEST HEARTS

A lying spirit was permitted to deceive Ahab through the mouths of false prophets.

a) “You shall persuade him and also prevail. Go out and do so.” (1 Kings 22:22)

When truth is persistently rejected, God allows deception as judgment.

b) Ahab chose delusion over discernment, so God confirmed his desire

He loved lies, and God gave him over to them.

c) The condition of the heart determines how we receive God’s message

Stubbornness invites strong delusion.

d) When people reject God’s voice long enough, He may let them follow their own ruin

Mercy is extended, but not forever.

Biblical Example: In 2 Thessalonians 2:10-11, Paul says God will send strong delusion to those who reject the truth.

4. THE WORD OF GOD ALWAYS COMES TO PASS—EVEN IF DELAYED

Despite Ahab’s disguise, he died exactly as the prophet said.

a) “Now a certain man drew a bow at random, and struck the king of Israel.” (1 Kings 22:34)

No disguise can protect anyone from the fulfillment of God's word.

b) God’s word is not bound by time, strategy, or human plans

Prophecy will find its target, even if it appears delayed.

c) Divine warnings must be taken seriously—even when inconvenient

God is never mocked.

d) Those who honour God’s word live; those who despise it fall under judgment

The fear of the Lord is still the beginning of wisdom.

Biblical Example: Jonah tried to escape God’s word, but was brought back through a storm and a great fish (Jonah 1:1-17).

5. GOD’S TRUE SERVANTS SPEAK WITH BOLDNESS, NOT COMPROMISE

Micaiah boldly declared what God showed him, even when imprisoned.

a) “As the Lord lives, whatever the Lord says to me, that I will speak.” (1 Kings 22:14)

True prophets are not for sale; they speak under divine mandate.

b) Speaking the truth often comes with a price

Micaiah was thrown into prison for speaking God’s word.

c) The strength of your ministry is not in acceptance, but in accuracy

Faithfulness to God outweighs applause from men.

d) God is looking for men who will declare truth without fear or favour

Voices like Micaiah are rare but needed.

Biblical Example: John the Baptist confronted Herod even when it cost him his life (Mark 6:17–18).

CONCLUSION:

1 Kings 22 is a powerful call to discernment and obedience. Ahab had every opportunity to escape death—but he ignored the one voice that could have saved him. God still sends true prophets today, but many prefer messages that soothe rather than convict. The end of such a path is destruction.