1 Kings 13:20

While they were sitting at the table, the word of the LORD came to the prophet who had brought him back,

Study Bible

While they were sitting at the table
This phrase sets the scene in a domestic and seemingly peaceful setting, indicating a moment of fellowship and hospitality. In ancient Near Eastern culture, sharing a meal was a significant act of communion and trust. The Hebrew word for "table" (שֻׁלְחָן, shulchan) often symbolizes a place of provision and blessing. This setting contrasts with the impending divine message, highlighting the unexpected nature of God's interventions in ordinary moments.

the word of the LORD
This phrase is central to the narrative, emphasizing the divine authority and the prophetic nature of the message. In Hebrew, "word" is דָּבָר (dabar), which implies not just spoken words but a matter or thing that carries weight and authority. The "word of the LORD" signifies a direct communication from God, underscoring the seriousness and truth of the message. It reflects the biblical theme that God speaks into human history, guiding, correcting, and revealing His will.

came to the prophet
The phrase indicates the divine initiative in communication. The Hebrew verb for "came" (הָיָה, hayah) suggests an occurrence or event, emphasizing that the prophetic message is an event in itself, a moment of divine revelation. The prophet, as a chosen vessel, receives this message, highlighting the role of prophets as intermediaries between God and His people. This underscores the biblical principle that God chooses specific individuals to convey His messages, often in unexpected ways.

who had brought him back
This phrase refers to the prophet from Bethel who had previously deceived the man of God. It highlights the complexity of human actions and divine sovereignty. The Hebrew root for "brought back" (שׁוּב, shuv) means to return or restore, which is ironic in this context, as the prophet's actions led to disobedience. This serves as a reminder of the consequences of straying from God's commands and the intricate interplay between human free will and divine purpose.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Man of God from Judah
A prophet sent by God to deliver a message to King Jeroboam in Bethel. He is instructed not to eat or drink in the land and to return by a different route.

2. The Old Prophet from Bethel
An older prophet who deceives the man of God into returning to his house to eat and drink, claiming an angel spoke to him.

3. Bethel
A significant location in the Northern Kingdom of Israel, where King Jeroboam set up a golden calf for worship, leading Israel into idolatry.

4. The Word of the LORD
The divine message that comes to the old prophet, revealing the consequences of the man of God's disobedience.

5. The Table
The setting where the old prophet and the man of God are dining when the word of the LORD comes to the old prophet.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
The man of God's account underscores the necessity of strict adherence to God's commands, even when faced with seemingly credible opposition.

Discernment in Spiritual Matters
Believers must exercise discernment, testing all spiritual messages against the truth of Scripture to avoid deception.

Consequences of Disobedience
The account illustrates that disobedience to God's word, even when influenced by others, carries serious consequences.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets are to be vessels of God's truth, and their messages must align with God's established word.

The Danger of Complacency
The man of God's decision to rest and dine shows how complacency can lead to vulnerability to deception.

Bible Study Questions

1. What lessons can we learn from the man of God's initial obedience and subsequent disobedience in 1 Kings 13?

2. How can we apply the principle of testing spiritual messages against Scripture in our daily lives?

3. In what ways does the account of the man of God and the old prophet challenge us to be vigilant in our spiritual walk?

4. How does the account of 1 Kings 13:20 relate to the warnings against false prophets found in Deuteronomy 13?

5. What practical steps can we take to ensure we remain obedient to God's word, even when faced with conflicting messages?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 13:1-19
Provides the context of the man of God's mission and his initial obedience to God's command.

1 Kings 13:21-22
Details the consequences of the man of God's disobedience, emphasizing the seriousness of adhering to God's word.

Deuteronomy 13:1-5
Warns against false prophets and the importance of testing messages against God's established word.

Galatians 1:8-9
Paul warns against accepting any gospel contrary to what has been preached, highlighting the importance of discernment.