1 Kings 18:3

KJV

And Ahab called Obadiah, which [was] the governor of [his] house. (Now Obadiah feared the LORD greatly:

KJV (with Strong's)

And Ahab {H256} called {H7121} Obadiah {H5662}, which was the governor of his house {H1004}.(Now Obadiah {H5662} feared {H3373} the LORD {H3068} greatly {H3966}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Ach'av called 'Ovadyah, who was in charge of the palace. Now 'Ovadyah greatly revered ADONAI;

Berean Standard Bible

and Ahab summoned Obadiah, who was in charge of the palace. (Now Obadiah greatly feared the LORD,

American Standard Version

And Ahab called Obadiah, who was over the household. (Now Obadiah feared Jehovah greatly:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 18:3 introduces Obadiah, a pivotal figure in the narrative of Elijah and King Ahab. Amidst a period of severe drought and widespread apostasy under the notoriously wicked King Ahab and Queen Jezebel, Obadiah is presented as the "governor of his house" who "feared the LORD greatly." This verse immediately establishes a profound spiritual contrast at the heart of the royal court, highlighting God's sovereign preservation of a faithful remnant even in the most hostile environments, setting the stage for Obadiah's crucial role in the unfolding divine confrontation with Baal worship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as a critical re-entry point into the narrative of Elijah after a period of divine provision and seclusion for the prophet, as detailed in [1 Kings 17](/1_kings/17 "1 Kings 17 - Elijah and the Widow of Zarephath"). The land of Israel is gripped by a devastating three-year drought and famine, a direct judgment from God proclaimed by Elijah in [1 Kings 17:1](/1_kings/17-1 "1 Kings 17:1 - Elijah's Prophecy of Drought"). Ahab's desperate search for water and pasture, even to the point of personally scouring the land, underscores the severity of the crisis. It is in this context of national desolation and royal desperation that Ahab encounters Obadiah, his chief administrator, setting the stage for Obadiah's unexpected and courageous intervention to protect God's prophets, thereby facilitating Elijah's dramatic return to confront the prophets of Baal on [Mount Carmel](/1_kings/18 "1 Kings 18 - Elijah on Mount Carmel").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The reign of King Ahab (c. 874-853 BC) was a period of unprecedented spiritual decline in the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Influenced by his Phoenician wife, Jezebel, Ahab aggressively promoted the worship of Baal and Asherah, constructing temples and altars for these Canaanite deities, as recorded in [1 Kings 16:31-33](/1_kings/16-31 "1 Kings 16:31-33 - Ahab's Idolatry"). This was not merely syncretism but a direct assault on the covenant relationship with Yahweh, the God of Israel. In this environment, serving as "governor of his house" (a position akin to a prime minister or chief of staff) meant Obadiah was deeply embedded within the very administration that championed idolatry. His role would have involved managing the royal palace, overseeing its affairs, and acting as a trusted confidant to the king. For such a high-ranking official to "fear the LORD greatly" in a court dominated by Baal worship speaks volumes about his profound personal conviction and the immense spiritual pressure he faced daily.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully introduces several enduring themes. Firstly, it highlights **Faithfulness in Adversity**, showcasing Obadiah as a beacon of integrity and devotion to the LORD amidst widespread idolatry and a corrupt administration. His ability to maintain his faith while serving a wicked king demonstrates that one can remain true to God even in profoundly challenging and compromising circumstances. Secondly, the verse subtly introduces the theme of **God's Preservation of a Remnant**. Despite the national apostasy, God always preserves a faithful few, as seen in Obadiah's secret protection of one hundred prophets of the LORD ([1 Kings 18:4](/1_kings/18-4 "1 Kings 18:4 - Obadiah Hides the Prophets")). This concept resonates throughout biblical history, notably echoed by Paul in [Romans 11:5](/romans/11-5 "Romans 11:5 - God's Remnant by Grace"), affirming God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people. Finally, the verse underscores **Divine Providence**, demonstrating God's strategic placement of faithful individuals in positions of influence, even within seemingly ungodly structures, to accomplish His redemptive purposes. Obadiah's high office was not an accident but part of God's plan to sustain His prophets and prepare for the dramatic confrontation on Mount Carmel.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Obadiah (Hebrew, _‘Ovadyahu'_):** Meaning "servant of Yahweh" or "worshiper of Yahweh." The very name of Ahab's chief administrator stands in stark contrast to the king's devotion to Baal. This name is highly significant, serving as a theological statement about his character and allegiance, especially when the text explicitly states he "feared the LORD greatly." It underscores a divine irony that the "servant of Yahweh" is found in the house of the king most hostile to Yahweh.
* **Governor (Hebrew, _sōkēn'_):** This term denotes a high-ranking official, often translated as "steward," "chamberlain," or "chief of staff." The _sōkēn_ was responsible for the management of the royal household, including finances, provisions, and personnel. Obadiah's position was one of immense trust, authority, and access to the king, making his secret acts of faithfulness even more remarkable and dangerous. His administrative competence was clearly valued by Ahab, allowing him to operate within the very system that opposed his God.
* **Feared the LORD greatly (Hebrew, _yārē’ ’et-YHWH mĕ’ōd'_):** The phrase "fear of the LORD" (yir’at Yahweh) in biblical Hebrew does not primarily mean terror or fright, but rather a profound reverence, awe, respect, and obedient submission to God. It implies a deep recognition of God's sovereignty, holiness, and power, leading to a desire to live in accordance with His will and commands. The addition of "greatly" (_mĕ’ōd_) emphasizes the intensity and depth of Obadiah's devotion, indicating that this fear was the defining characteristic of his life and actions, even in a hostile environment. It is a fear that leads to life, wisdom, and righteousness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Ahab called Obadiah":** This opening clause immediately establishes the king's initiative and Obadiah's high standing. Ahab, in his desperation due to the drought, summons his most trusted household official. The simple act of calling Obadiah implies a reliance on his administrative capabilities and a recognition of his authority within the royal court, highlighting the crucial role Obadiah played in the kingdom's operations.
* **"which [was] the governor of [his] house":** This parenthetical explanation clarifies Obadiah's significant position. As the _sōkēn_, Obadiah was not merely a servant but the chief administrator, responsible for the entire royal household. This detail is vital as it explains how Obadiah had the resources and authority to hide and feed one hundred prophets of the LORD, as revealed in the subsequent verses. His high office provided both the opportunity and the immense risk for his acts of faith.
* **"(Now Obadiah feared the LORD greatly:)":** This second parenthetical statement is the spiritual heart of the verse and the key to understanding Obadiah's character and actions. It is a direct divine commentary on his inner spiritual state, immediately contrasting him with the idolatrous Ahab. This "fear" is not terror but profound reverence and devotion, indicating a deep, active, and obedient relationship with Yahweh. This single phrase explains his courage, integrity, and willingness to risk his life for God's prophets, setting him apart as a true believer in a nation that had largely abandoned its God.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs **Contrast** and **Irony** to highlight Obadiah's character. The immediate juxtaposition of King Ahab, a notorious promoter of Baal worship, with Obadiah, who "feared the LORD greatly," creates a stark **contrast** that underscores the spiritual battle at play. It is **ironic** that the wicked king relies so heavily on a man whose deepest allegiance is to the very God Ahab seeks to suppress. This situation also serves as **Foreshadowing**, subtly hinting at Obadiah's crucial, albeit hidden, role in God's plan to confront Baal worship. His integrity and faithfulness, despite his compromised position, set the stage for his pivotal encounter with Elijah and his assistance in preserving the remnant of God's prophets, demonstrating God's ability to work through unexpected individuals in unexpected places.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Kings 18:3 profoundly illustrates God's sovereign ability to preserve a faithful remnant and strategically place His people, even within environments hostile to His truth. Obadiah's deep reverence for Yahweh, despite serving the most idolatrous king in Israel's history, underscores that true faith is not contingent on external circumstances but on an internal commitment to God's covenant. This verse serves as a powerful testament to the enduring presence of God's grace and His unwavering commitment to maintain a witness for Himself, even when the majority has strayed. Obadiah embodies the principle that genuine piety leads to courageous obedience, even at great personal risk, demonstrating that the "fear of the LORD" is indeed the foundation for wisdom and righteous living in a fallen world.

* [Romans 11:5](/romans/11-5 "Romans 11:5 - God's Remnant by Grace")
* [Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom")
* [Psalm 111:10](/psalms/111-10 "Psalm 111:10 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Obadiah's story in 1 Kings 18:3 offers timeless lessons for believers navigating a complex world. His example challenges us to consider what it truly means to "fear the LORD greatly" in our own lives, especially when our professional or social environments may not align with our spiritual convictions. Obadiah demonstrates that integrity and faithfulness are not confined to overtly religious spaces; they can and must be lived out in every sphere of influence, even within seemingly compromised structures. His quiet courage in preserving the prophets, despite the immense personal danger, reminds us that God often uses ordinary people in extraordinary ways to accomplish His purposes. We are called to cultivate a deep reverence for God that translates into active obedience, ethical conduct, and a willingness to stand for truth, even when it is unpopular or risky.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can believers today cultivate a "great fear of the LORD" that translates into practical obedience and courageous action in their daily lives?**
* **In what ways does Obadiah's example challenge our assumptions about where God can work or through whom He can accomplish His purposes?**
* **What are the "prophets" or "truths" in our contemporary society that God might be calling us to preserve or protect, even at personal cost?**

### FAQ
**What was the significance of Obadiah being "governor of his house"?**

Answer: Obadiah's position as "governor of his house" (Hebrew: _sōkēn_) signifies that he was the chief administrator of King Ahab's royal palace, a role of immense power, trust, and responsibility. This was not a minor servant but essentially the prime minister or chief of staff, overseeing all domestic affairs of the kingdom, including finances, provisions, and personnel. This high office is significant for several reasons: it explains how Obadiah had the resources and authority to hide and feed one hundred prophets of the LORD, as detailed in [1 Kings 18:4](/1_kings/18-4 "1 Kings 18:4 - Obadiah Hides the Prophets"); it highlights the profound spiritual contrast that a man who "feared the LORD greatly" held such a crucial position in the court of the most idolatrous king; and it demonstrates God's sovereign placement of a faithful individual in a strategic role to accomplish His purposes, even within a hostile environment.

**How could Obadiah serve such a wicked king and still "fear the LORD greatly"?**

Answer: Obadiah's ability to serve King Ahab while maintaining his deep reverence for the LORD highlights a complex dynamic of faithfulness in a compromised environment. His position likely required administrative competence and loyalty to the king's secular authority, but his spiritual allegiance remained firmly with Yahweh. This suggests that Obadiah navigated a difficult path, performing his duties as governor while secretly upholding his covenant with God. His "great fear of the LORD" was not merely passive belief but an active commitment that led him to risk his life to protect God's prophets ([1 Kings 18:4](/1_kings/18-4 "1 Kings 18:4 - Obadiah Hides the Prophets")). This demonstrates that one can be "in the world but not of the world," maintaining personal integrity and devotion to God even when operating within systems or structures that are ungodly. His example offers a powerful lesson on discerning how to live faithfully when faced with moral complexities in professional or civic life.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Obadiah, the "servant of Yahweh" who "feared the LORD greatly" amidst the deep apostasy of Ahab's court, serves as a poignant Old Testament type pointing to the ultimate "Servant of Yahweh," Jesus Christ. While Obadiah's faithfulness was hidden and his influence limited to the preservation of a remnant, Christ's perfect obedience and ultimate sacrifice accomplished the salvation of all who believe, establishing a new covenant and a universal kingdom. Obadiah's courageous act of preserving the prophets foreshadows Christ's divine protection of His church, against which [the gates of Hades will not prevail](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - The Gates of Hades Shall Not Prevail"). The "fear of the LORD" that defined Obadiah finds its ultimate and perfect expression in Christ, who is the very [wisdom of God](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ, our wisdom") and the embodiment of perfect reverence and obedience to the Father ([Hebrews 5:7-9](/hebrews/5-7 "Hebrews 5:7-9 - Christ's Obedience and Perfection")). Furthermore, Obadiah's role in preserving a faithful remnant in Israel anticipates the spiritual remnant of God's people, the Church, chosen in Christ [before the foundation of the world](/ephesians/1-4 "Ephesians 1:4 - Chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world"), called out of darkness into His marvelous light ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Chosen Race, a Royal Priesthood")). Thus, Obadiah's story, though brief, illuminates the enduring truth of God's sovereign work through His faithful servants, culminating in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who perfectly fulfills God's will and establishes His eternal kingdom.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Nehemiah 7:2

That I gave my brother Hanani, and Hananiah the ruler of the palace, charge over Jerusalem: for he [was] a faithful man, and feared God above many.

Matthew 10:28

And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.

1 Kings 16:9

And his servant Zimri, captain of half [his] chariots, conspired against him, as he was in Tirzah, drinking himself drunk in the house of Arza steward of [his] house in Tirzah.

Acts 10:2

[A] devout [man], and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway.

2 Kings 4:1

¶ Now there cried a certain woman of the wives of the sons of the prophets unto Elisha, saying, Thy servant my husband is dead; and thou knowest that thy servant did fear the LORD: and the creditor is come to take unto him my two sons to be bondmen.

Genesis 39:9

[There is] none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou [art] his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?

Genesis 42:18

And Joseph said unto them the third day, This do, and live; [for] I fear God: