1 Kings 15:16-24

The War Policy of Asa.

"Forty and one years reigned he in Jerusalem" ( 1 Kings 15:10 ). The evil kings of Judah were about as numerous as the good, but their reigns were shorter. "The wicked do not live out half their days." But though the reign of Asa was long and glorious, his war policy with Baasha was not creditable.

I. THE OBJECT WAS RIGHT .

1 . The war was provoked by the enemy .

2 . It was provoked by impious intention .

II. THE MEANS WERE WRONG .

1 . They were human .

2 . They were unworthy .

III. THE SUCCESS WAS PARTIAL .

1 . The end was answered .

2 . But the price was too great .

Note: Asa's blunders followed upon his prosperity. Few abide this test. Loss of spirituality and religious zeal accompanies the growing worldly prosperity of churches!—J.A.M.

HOMILIES BY J. URQUHART