2 Chronicles 18:8

And the king of Israel called for one [of his] officers, and said, Fetch quickly Micaiah the son of Imla.

And the king {H4428} of Israel {H3478} called {H7121} for one {H259} of his officers {H5631}, and said {H559}, Fetch quickly {H4116} Micaiah {H4319} the son {H1121} of Imla {H3229}.

Then the king called an officer and said, "Quickly! Bring Mikhay'hu the son of Yimlah."

So the king of Israel called one of his officials and said, โ€œBring Micaiah son of Imlah at once.โ€

Then the king of Israel called an officer, and said, Fetch quickly Micaiah the son of Imla.

Commentary

Context

This verse is a pivotal moment in the narrative found in 2 Chronicles chapter 18, which parallels the account in 1 Kings chapter 22. King Ahab of Israel, a notoriously wicked king, has allied with King Jehoshaphat of Judah. They plan to wage war against Ramoth-Gilead. Jehoshaphat, a righteous king, insists that they first inquire of the Lord. Ahab initially consults 400 of his own prophets, who all unanimously prophesy victory. However, Jehoshaphat senses their words are not from God and asks if there is another prophet of the Lord. This verse records Ahab's reluctant concession to send for Micaiah, a prophet he despises because, as Ahab states in verse 7, Micaiah "doth not prophesy good concerning me, but always evil."

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Reluctance to Hear Truth: Ahab's immediate summoning of Micaiah only comes after Jehoshaphat's persistent questioning. This highlights the human tendency to prefer pleasant lies over uncomfortable truths, especially when the truth challenges one's plans or desires.
  • The Unpopularity of God's True Prophets: Micaiah embodies the true prophet who speaks God's unvarnished word, regardless of personal cost or popular opinion. His message often contradicted the prevailing sentiment, making him an outcast in Ahab's court.
  • Divine Sovereignty and Guidance: Despite Ahab's resistance, God's plan unfolds through His chosen messenger. The narrative underscores that while kings and armies make plans, ultimately, the Lord's purpose will prevail.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "Fetch quickly" (KJV) conveys a sense of urgency, albeit a reluctant one on Ahab's part. The Hebrew word for "quickly" (ืžึทื”ึตืจ - maher) emphasizes speed, perhaps indicating Ahab's desire to get this formality over with, or simply to proceed with his military plans without further delay once the prophet's word was heard (or dismissed).

Practical Application

This verse reminds believers of the importance of seeking and embracing God's truth, even when it is difficult or goes against our immediate desires. It challenges us to discern between voices that tell us what we want to hear and those that faithfully convey God's will. Like Jehoshaphat, we should cultivate a spiritual sensitivity to recognize genuine divine guidance, even when it comes through an unpopular messenger. True wisdom involves valuing God's word above personal convenience or worldly success.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Samuel 8:15 (2 votes)

    And he will take the tenth of your seed, and of your vineyards, and give to his officers, and to his servants.

  • 2 Chronicles 18:25 (2 votes)

    Then the king of Israel said, Take ye Micaiah, and carry him back to Amon the governor of the city, and to Joash the king's son;

  • 2 Chronicles 18:26 (2 votes)

    And say, Thus saith the king, Put this [fellow] in the prison, and feed him with bread of affliction and with water of affliction, until I return in peace.

  • 1 Kings 22:9 (2 votes)

    Then the king of Israel called an officer, and said, Hasten [hither] Micaiah the son of Imlah.

  • Isaiah 39:7 (2 votes)

    And of thy sons that shall issue from thee, which thou shalt beget, shall they take away; and they shall be eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon.

  • Daniel 1:3 (2 votes)

    And the king spake unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring [certain] of the children of Israel, and of the king's seed, and of the princes;

  • 1 Chronicles 28:1 (2 votes)

    ยถ And David assembled all the princes of Israel, the princes of the tribes, and the captains of the companies that ministered to the king by course, and the captains over the thousands, and captains over the hundreds, and the stewards over all the substance and possession of the king, and of his sons, with the officers, and with the mighty men, and with all the valiant men, unto Jerusalem.