Old Testament
2 Chronicles 18:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then a spirit stepped forward, stood before the LORD, and said, 'I will entice him.' The LORD asked, 'With what?'
Compare translations
Then there came out a spirit, and stood before the LORD, and said, I will entice him. And the LORD said unto him, Wherewith?
What 2 Chronicles 18:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, a spirit approaches God with a bold plan to lead King Ahab astray. The spirit's willingness to entice Ahab shows the lengths to which spiritual forces can go to influence human decisions. God, in His sovereignty, allows this spirit to proceed, asking how it will accomplish this task. This interaction highlights the reality of spiritual warfare and the choices we make. It reminds us that our decisions can be influenced by unseen forces, both good and bad. The dialogue between God and the spirit illustrates the importance of discernment in our lives. We must be aware of the influences around us and seek wisdom in our choices. Ultimately, this passage challenges us to consider who or what we allow to guide our decisions and actions in life, emphasizing the need for vigilance and prayer. Understanding this dynamic can help us navigate our own paths with greater awareness and intention, ensuring we align with what is good and true in our lives, rather than being led astray.
How to apply 2 Chronicles 18:20 to your life
Reflect on the influences in your life. Are there voices or forces leading you away from what is right? Seek to surround yourself with positive influences and make choices that align with your values. Pray for wisdom and clarity in your decision-making process. Stay vigilant against negative influences that may entice you away from your path of integrity and truth.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Chronicles Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 2 Chronicles 18:20
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 2 Chronicles 18:20
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 2 Chronicles
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Chronicles 18:20 teach about spiritual influence?
This verse illustrates how spiritual forces can actively seek to influence human decisions. The spirit's willingness to entice King Ahab shows that there are unseen powers at work that can lead individuals away from righteousness. It emphasizes the importance of being aware of these influences and discerning which voices to follow.
How can I apply the lessons from 2 Chronicles 18:20 in my life?
To apply the lessons from this verse, reflect on the influences surrounding you. Identify any negative voices or forces that may lead you away from your values. Surround yourself with positive influences, seek wisdom through prayer, and make conscious choices that align with your beliefs. This awareness can help you navigate life's decisions with integrity.
What does the dialogue between God and the spirit signify?
The dialogue between God and the spirit signifies God's sovereignty and the reality of spiritual warfare. It shows that while God allows certain influences to occur, He is still in control. This interaction serves as a reminder that we must be vigilant in our decision-making, recognizing that not all influences are beneficial.
What is the significance of the spirit's willingness to entice Ahab?
The spirit's willingness to entice Ahab highlights the lengths to which spiritual forces will go to influence human behavior. It serves as a warning about the dangers of being led astray by deceptive influences. This passage encourages believers to be discerning and to seek guidance from God to resist such temptations.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.