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 had finished eating and drinking
This phrase indicates the completion of a meal, which is significant in the context of the narrative. The man of God, who had been sent from Judah to Bethel to deliver a message against the altar, was initially instructed by God not to eat or drink in that place. His disobedience to this command, influenced by the old prophet's deception, highlights the importance of adhering to God's word. This act of eating and drinking symbolizes a breach of divine instruction, reminiscent of other biblical instances where disobedience leads to consequences, such as Adam and Eve in Genesis 3.

the old prophet who had brought him back
The old prophet from Bethel plays a crucial role in this narrative. His actions are pivotal, as he deceives the man of God by claiming to have received a word from an angel, which contradicts the original command given to the man of God. This highlights the theme of false prophecy and the danger of being led astray by those who claim divine authority. The old prophet's actions serve as a warning against false teachings and emphasize the need for discernment, as echoed in passages like 1 John 4:1, which advises believers to test the spirits.

saddled the donkey for him
Saddling the donkey signifies preparation for a journey, indicating that the man of God is about to leave Bethel. In biblical times, donkeys were common means of transportation, symbolizing humility and service. This act of the old prophet saddling the donkey can be seen as an ironic gesture of hospitality, given the deception that has occurred. The donkey, as a mode of transport, also connects to other biblical narratives, such as Balaam's donkey in Numbers 22, which serves as a vehicle for divine intervention and revelation.

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.