The Seriousness of Sin (Lesson 2)

1 Kings 21:27-29 NASB

(27)  It came about when Ahab heard these words, that he tore his clothes and put on sackcloth and fasted, and he lay in sackcloth and went about despondently.

(28)  Then the word of the LORD came to Elijah the Tishbite, saying,

(29)  "Do you see how Ahab has humbled himself before Me? Because he has humbled himself before Me, I will not bring the evil in his days, but I will bring the evil upon his house in his son's days."

Ahab did more evil in the eyes of God than any other King did.  We must acknowledge our sin if we are to find a remedy.  Ahab’s covetousness caused a series of events that resulted in more sin.

He allowed his wife to rule in his stead.  When Ahad couldn’t get the land from Naboth he begins to pout.  It is at this point that Jezebel takes matters into her hands and Ahab allows her to do so. 

They falsely accuse Naboth, an innocent man.  Based on the false accusations, they commit murder by having Naboth taken outside of the city to be stoned to death. The Bible says they left him outside the city and the dogs lapped up Naboth’s blood.  It is at this point, that Ahab steals Naboth’s land. 

God sends Elijah to tell Ahab that He knows what he did and the same fate will happen to him unless he repents. Ahab repents and is spared.

Ezekiel 33:11 NASB (11)  "Say to them, 'As I live!' declares the Lord GOD, 'I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that the wicked turn from his way and live. Turn back, turn back from your evil ways! Why then will you die, O house of Israel?'

Sin is serious to God and Jesus is the way.