1 Kings 13:23

And after the man of God had finished eating and drinking, the old prophet who had brought him back saddled the donkey for him.

Study Bible

And after the man of God
The phrase "man of God" is a title often used in the Old Testament to denote a prophet or someone who is divinely inspired. In Hebrew, this is "ish ha-Elohim," which emphasizes the individual's close relationship with God. This title is significant as it underscores the authority and divine mission of the person, setting the stage for the events that follow. The man of God in this context is a prophet sent by God to deliver a message, highlighting the seriousness of his role and the expectations of obedience to God's commands.

had finished eating and drinking
This phrase indicates a completion of a meal, which in ancient Near Eastern culture, was a sign of fellowship and covenant. The act of eating and drinking together often symbolized agreement or acceptance. However, in this narrative, it also marks a moment of disobedience, as the man of God was instructed not to eat or drink in that place. This highlights the tension between divine command and human action, serving as a reminder of the importance of adhering to God's instructions.

the prophet who had brought him back
This refers to the old prophet who deceived the man of God into returning to his house. The Hebrew word for prophet, "navi," indicates someone who speaks on behalf of God. However, in this instance, the old prophet's actions were misleading, showing that not all who claim to speak for God are truthful. This serves as a cautionary tale about discernment and the need to test the spirits, as advised in 1 John 4:1.

saddled the donkey for him
Saddling a donkey was a common practice for preparing for a journey in ancient times. The donkey, a humble and sturdy animal, was often used for travel, symbolizing service and readiness. In this context, the act of saddling the donkey signifies preparation for departure, but it also foreshadows the impending judgment that the man of God would face due to his disobedience. The donkey becomes a vehicle not just for physical travel, but for the unfolding of divine justice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Man of God
A prophet from Judah sent by God to deliver a message to King Jeroboam in Bethel. He is central to the account, representing obedience to God's command.

2. The Old Prophet
An older prophet living in Bethel who deceives the man of God into disobeying God's direct command by inviting him to eat and drink.

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

4. The Donkey
An animal used for transportation, symbolizing the journey and the consequences of the man of God's actions.

5. The Event
The man of God disobeys God's command not to eat or drink in Bethel, leading to his eventual demise as a consequence of his disobedience.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Command
The account underscores the importance of adhering strictly to God's instructions, regardless of external influences or pressures.

Discernment Against Deception
Believers must exercise discernment and be wary of those who claim to speak for God but lead others away from His commands.

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

The Role of Prophets
Prophets are to be tested against God's word, and their messages should align with God's established commands.

The Importance of Integrity
Maintaining integrity in one's mission and calling is crucial, even when faced with seemingly credible opposition.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. How does the interaction between the man of God and the old prophet illustrate the need for discernment in our spiritual lives?

3. In what ways does this account challenge us to evaluate the voices and influences we allow into our lives?

4. How can we apply the lessons of obedience and integrity from this passage to our daily walk with God?

5. What other biblical examples can you think of where individuals faced consequences for disobedience, and how do they relate to this account?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 13:1-22
Provides the context of the man of God's mission and the warning he received from God not to eat or drink in Bethel.

1 Kings 13:24-25
Describes the consequence of the man of God's disobedience, where he is killed by a lion, emphasizing the seriousness of obeying God's commands.

Deuteronomy 13:1-5
Warns against false prophets and the importance of adhering strictly to God's commands, even if others claim divine revelation.

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