1 Kings 13:32

for the message that he cried out by the word of the LORD against the altar in Bethel and against all the shrines on the high places in the cities of Samaria will surely come to pass."

Study Bible

For the message that he proclaimed
This phrase refers to the prophetic declaration made by the man of God from Judah. The Hebrew root for "message" is "dabar," which means word, matter, or thing. In the biblical context, a "dabar" from God is not just a spoken word but a powerful declaration that carries divine authority and certainty. The proclamation is not merely human speech but a divine utterance that will inevitably be fulfilled. This highlights the seriousness and the divine backing of the prophetic word.

by the word of the LORD
The phrase underscores the divine origin of the prophecy. The Hebrew term for "word" here is "dabar," which signifies a communication from God. The "word of the LORD" is a common biblical expression indicating that the message is not of human origin but is divinely inspired. This emphasizes the authority and reliability of the prophecy, as it is not subject to human error or change.

against the altar in Bethel
Bethel was a significant religious site in the Northern Kingdom of Israel, where King Jeroboam set up a golden calf as an object of worship. The altar in Bethel symbolizes the idolatrous practices that had taken root in Israel. The Hebrew term for "altar" is "mizbeach," which is a place of sacrifice. The prophecy against the altar signifies God's judgment against false worship and idolatry, highlighting the seriousness of deviating from true worship of Yahweh.

and against all the shrines of the high places
The "shrines of the high places" refers to the local worship sites scattered throughout the Northern Kingdom, where unauthorized and idolatrous worship took place. The Hebrew word for "high places" is "bamot," which were elevated sites often used for pagan worship. This phrase indicates a comprehensive judgment against all forms of idolatry in the land, not just the central altar at Bethel. It underscores God's demand for exclusive worship and the rejection of syncretism.

in the cities of Samaria
Samaria was the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. The mention of "the cities of Samaria" indicates that the idolatrous practices were widespread throughout the kingdom. The historical context here is significant, as Samaria later became synonymous with the Northern Kingdom itself. This phrase highlights the pervasive nature of the sin and the extent of the judgment that was to come.

will surely come to pass
This phrase emphasizes the certainty of the prophetic word. The Hebrew construction here is emphatic, indicating that the fulfillment of the prophecy is inevitable. In the biblical narrative, God's words are always fulfilled, underscoring His sovereignty and faithfulness. This assurance serves as both a warning and a comfort: a warning to those who persist in disobedience and a comfort to those who trust in God's promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Man of God
A prophet from Judah who was sent by God to Bethel to deliver a message against the altar that King Jeroboam had set up.

2. Bethel
A city in the northern kingdom of Israel where King Jeroboam established a center of idol worship, contrary to God's commandments.

3. 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.

4. The Altar in Bethel
An unauthorized altar built by Jeroboam for idol worship, which the man of God prophesied against.

5. The High Places in the Cities of Samaria
Locations throughout the northern kingdom where unauthorized worship practices were conducted, which were condemned by the prophet.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of God's Word
God's pronouncements through His prophets are sure and will come to pass, as seen in the eventual destruction of the altar at Bethel.

The Danger of Idolatry
Idolatry leads to spiritual decay and judgment. Believers must guard against modern forms of idolatry that can distract from true worship.

Obedience to God's Commands
The account underscores the importance of adhering to God's instructions, as deviation leads to consequences.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets serve as God's messengers, often delivering difficult truths. We should be open to receiving and heeding God's word, even when it challenges us.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God's plans and purposes prevail over the actions of kings and nations, reminding us of His ultimate authority.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against the altar in Bethel demonstrate the reliability of God's word?

2. In what ways can modern believers fall into the trap of idolatry, and how can we guard against it?

3. What lessons can we learn from the man of God's obedience and the consequences of Jeroboam's disobedience?

4. How does the fulfillment of prophecy in 2 Kings 23:15-20 reinforce the message of 1 Kings 13:32?

5. How can we apply the principle of God's sovereignty in our personal lives and in understanding world events today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 12:28-30
Provides context for Jeroboam's establishment of idol worship in Bethel and Dan, which the man of God was sent to condemn.

2 Kings 23:15-20
Describes the fulfillment of the prophecy when King Josiah destroys the altar at Bethel, demonstrating the certainty of God's word.

Deuteronomy 12:5-14
Outlines God's command for worship to be centralized in the place He chooses, highlighting the sin of Jeroboam's actions.