1 Kings 13:3

That day the man of God gave a sign, saying, "The LORD has spoken this sign: 'Surely the altar will be split apart, and the ashes upon it will be poured out.'"

Study Bible

That day
The phrase "that day" indicates a specific moment in time, emphasizing the immediacy and urgency of the prophetic message. In the Hebrew context, "day" (יוֹם, yom) often signifies not just a 24-hour period but a divinely appointed time. This underscores the importance of the events that are unfolding, as they are orchestrated by God’s sovereign timing.

the man of God
This title, "the man of God," is used to describe a prophet or someone who is divinely appointed to deliver God's message. In Hebrew, the term is "אִישׁ הָאֱלֹהִים" (ish ha-Elohim), which conveys a deep connection and commitment to God. This designation highlights the authority and authenticity of the messenger, reminding us that true prophecy comes from a life dedicated to God.

gave a sign
The act of giving a sign is significant in biblical narratives as it serves as a divine confirmation of the prophet's message. In Hebrew, the word for sign is "אוֹת" (oth), which can mean a miraculous event or a symbol. This sign is meant to validate the words spoken by the prophet, providing tangible evidence of God's intervention and power.

saying, 'This is the sign that the LORD has spoken
The phrase emphasizes the source of the message—the LORD (יהוה, Yahweh). It is not the man of God’s own words but a direct communication from God. This underscores the authority and reliability of the prophecy, as it originates from the ultimate source of truth and power.

Surely the altar will be split apart
The certainty of the prophecy is emphasized by the word "surely." The altar, a central place of worship and sacrifice, being split apart signifies a dramatic divine intervention. In the historical context, this act would symbolize the rejection of false worship practices and the judgment of God upon idolatry.

and the ashes upon it will be poured out
Ashes, in biblical terms, often represent the remnants of sacrifice and are associated with purification and repentance. The pouring out of ashes signifies the nullification of the sacrifices made on the altar, indicating that they are not accepted by God. This act serves as a powerful symbol of divine judgment and the call to return to true worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Man of God
An unnamed prophet sent by God from Judah to Bethel to deliver a message of judgment against King Jeroboam's altar.

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. Bethel
A significant religious site in the northern kingdom where Jeroboam established one of his golden calves, leading Israel into sin.

4. The Altar
The altar at Bethel, which Jeroboam used for idolatrous worship, was the focus of God's judgment and the sign given by the man of God.

5. The Sign
A miraculous event where the altar would be split apart and the ashes poured out, serving as confirmation of the prophet's message from God.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience to God's Word
The man of God delivered a message of judgment because of disobedience to God's commandments. We must prioritize obedience to God's Word in our lives.

The Role of Signs in Confirming God's Message
Signs, like the splitting of the altar, serve to confirm the truth of God's message. We should seek God's confirmation in our lives through His Word and the Holy Spirit.

The Consequences of Idolatry
Jeroboam's idolatry led to judgment. We must guard against modern forms of idolatry, ensuring that nothing takes precedence over our relationship with God.

The Sovereignty of God in Judgment
God's judgment on the altar demonstrates His sovereignty and control over all things. We can trust in His righteous judgment and timing.

The Courage to Speak God's Truth
The man of God boldly proclaimed God's message despite potential danger. We are called to speak truth with courage and conviction, relying on God's strength.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the splitting of the altar signify about God's view of idolatry, and how can we apply this understanding to avoid idolatry in our own lives?

2. How does the man of God's obedience to deliver a difficult message challenge us in our own willingness to obey God's calling, even when it is uncomfortable?

3. In what ways can we discern true signs from God today, and how can we ensure that we are not misled by false teachings or prophets?

4. How does the account of the man of God and the altar at Bethel connect with the broader biblical account of God's judgment and redemption?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to speak a difficult truth. How can the example of the man of God encourage you to rely on God's strength in similar situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 12:28-30
Provides context for Jeroboam's establishment of the golden calves and the altars at Bethel and Dan, which led Israel into sin.

2 Kings 23:15-16
Describes the fulfillment of the prophecy when King Josiah later destroys the altar at Bethel, confirming the word of the man of God.

Exodus 20:3-4
Relates to the commandment against idolatry, which Jeroboam violated by setting up the golden calves.

Deuteronomy 13:1-5
Discusses the role of prophets and the importance of discerning true prophecy, relevant to the man of God's message.

Matthew 12:39-40
Jesus speaks of the sign of Jonah, drawing a parallel to the importance of signs in confirming God's messages.