What does 1 Kings 15:17 Mean?

Context Summary

We obtain a fuller view of the events described in the earlier part of this passage by reference to 2 Chronicles 16:1-6. Asa's early piety, which shone out in his drastic purging of idolatry and the corruptions which sprang up like fungi on a damp soil, cannot be questioned. Strange that such a man, who, by faith in God, had driven back Zerah's formidable invasion, should in later years succumb to the craven methods of mere expediency in his conflict with Baasha.

This league with Ben-hadad arose from unbelief. Even true believers are sometimes hard pressed to maintain their integrity, because the trials of faith tend to increase. When Peter looked at the rising billows, his heart became troubled and he began to sink. To Asa's alliance with this heathen king may be traced the beginning of the downfall of both kingdoms-of the ten tribes and of Judah. Palestine was no longer a neutral state, but became involved in the political combinations of the time. Those that honor God are honored, 1 Samuel 2:30; those that put their trust elsewhere rue it all their days. [source]

Chapter Summary: 1 Kings 15

¹  Abijam's wicked reign
⁷  Asa succeeds him
⁹  Asa's good reign
¹⁶  The war between Baasha and him causes him to make a league with Ben-Hadad
²³  Jehoshaphat succeeds Asa
²⁵  Nadab's wicked reign
²⁷  Baasha conspiring against him, executes Ahijah's prophecy
³¹  Nadab's acts and death
³³  Baasha's wicked reign