1 Kings 13:5

And the altar was split apart, and the ashes poured out, according to the sign that the man of God had given by the word of the LORD.

Study Bible

And the altar was split apart
The phrase "the altar was split apart" signifies a miraculous event that underscores the power and authority of God. In Hebrew, the word for "altar" is "mizbeach," which is a place of sacrifice and worship. The splitting of the altar symbolizes God's judgment against false worship and idolatry. Historically, altars were central to religious practices, and their destruction would have been a profound sign of divine displeasure. This act serves as a physical manifestation of God's intervention and a call to return to true worship.

and its ashes poured out
The pouring out of the ashes represents the nullification of the sacrifices offered on the altar. In the Hebrew context, ashes ("epher") are often associated with mourning and repentance. The dispersal of ashes here indicates the rejection of the illegitimate worship practices that had been conducted. It is a vivid demonstration that the offerings made were not acceptable to God, emphasizing the need for purity and sincerity in worship.

according to the sign
The term "sign" in this context is translated from the Hebrew word "oth," which refers to a miraculous event or a divine token. Signs in the Bible often serve to confirm the authority of God's messengers and the truth of their message. This particular sign was given to validate the prophecy spoken by the man of God, reinforcing the certainty of God's word and His active involvement in the affairs of His people.

that the man of God had given
The "man of God" is a title used for prophets or individuals who are divinely appointed to deliver God's messages. This phrase highlights the role of the prophet as a conduit of divine revelation. The man of God in this narrative acts with authority derived not from himself but from his commission by God. This underscores the importance of obedience to God's messengers and the serious consequences of disregarding their words.

by the word of the LORD
The "word of the LORD" is a powerful phrase that signifies divine communication. In Hebrew, "word" is "dabar," which implies not just spoken words but also the active and dynamic expression of God's will. The fulfillment of the prophecy "by the word of the LORD" emphasizes the reliability and sovereignty of God's declarations. It serves as a reminder that God's word is living and effective, accomplishing what He intends without fail.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Man of God
A prophet sent by God from Judah to Bethel to deliver a message against the altar that King Jeroboam had erected for idol worship.

2. King Jeroboam
The first king of the northern kingdom of Israel, who led the people into idolatry by setting up golden calves in Bethel and Dan.

3. The Altar
Constructed by Jeroboam in Bethel as part of his idolatrous worship practices, which was the focus of God's judgment through the prophet.

4. Bethel
A significant location in the northern kingdom where Jeroboam set up one of the golden calves, turning it into a center of false worship.

5. The Sign
A miraculous event where the altar was split and the ashes poured out, confirming the authenticity of the prophet's message from God.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Idolatry
Idolatry leads to God's judgment. Jeroboam's actions brought about divine intervention and a clear sign of disapproval.

The Power of God's Word
The fulfillment of the prophet's words demonstrates the authority and reliability of God's message. Believers can trust in the truth of Scripture.

The Role of Signs and Wonders
Miraculous signs serve to confirm God's message and should lead to repentance and obedience, not just amazement.

Obedience to God's Commands
The man of God obeyed God's directive despite potential danger, illustrating the importance of faithfulness to God's instructions.

The Danger of False Worship
Establishing worship practices contrary to God's commands leads to spiritual decay and separation from God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the event of the altar splitting in 1 Kings 13:5 demonstrate the seriousness of idolatry in God's eyes?

2. In what ways can we discern true messages from God today, similar to the role of the man of God in this passage?

3. How does the fulfillment of the prophecy in 1 Kings 13:5 encourage us to trust in the promises and warnings found in Scripture?

4. What are some modern-day "altars" or idols that might distract us from true worship, and how can we guard against them?

5. How can the account of the man of God in 1 Kings 13 inspire us to remain obedient to God's commands, even when faced with opposition or danger?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 12
Provides context for Jeroboam's establishment of idol worship in Bethel, setting the stage for the events of 1 Kings 13.

2 Kings 23
Describes King Josiah's later reforms, where he destroys the altar at Bethel, fulfilling the prophecy given by the man of God.

Exodus 20
The Ten Commandments, which include the prohibition against idolatry, highlighting the sinfulness of Jeroboam's actions.

Deuteronomy 13
Discusses the role of prophets and the importance of discerning true messages from God, relevant to the man of God's mission.