1 Kings 13:9

For this is what I was commanded by the word of the LORD: 'You must not eat bread or drink water or return by the way you came.'"

Study Bible

For this is what I was commanded
The phrase underscores the authority and divine origin of the prophet's mission. The Hebrew root for "commanded" is צָוָה (tsavah), which implies a direct order or charge given by a higher authority. In the biblical context, this highlights the seriousness and non-negotiable nature of God's instructions. The prophet's obedience to God's command is a central theme, emphasizing the importance of adhering to divine directives without deviation.

by the word of the LORD
This phrase signifies the divine communication received by the prophet. The "word" in Hebrew is דָּבָר (dabar), which can mean a matter, thing, or word. It is often used to denote God's revelation or message to His people. The "LORD" is the translation of the tetragrammaton YHWH, the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature. This phrase assures the reader of the divine origin and authority of the message, reinforcing the prophet's role as a true messenger of God.

You must not eat bread or drink water
This command is a test of obedience and separation. In the ancient Near Eastern context, sharing a meal was a sign of fellowship and agreement. By forbidding the prophet to eat or drink, God is instructing him to remain separate from the idolatrous practices and people of the land. The Hebrew words for "bread" (לֶחֶם, lechem) and "water" (מַיִם, mayim) are basic sustenance, symbolizing the prophet's reliance on God alone for provision and strength during his mission.

or return by the way you came
This instruction emphasizes the need for a complete break from the past and a new direction in obedience to God. The Hebrew root for "return" is שׁוּב (shuv), which means to turn back or repent. This command can be seen as a metaphor for repentance and transformation, urging the prophet to not only deliver God's message but also to embody a life of change and obedience. The path he takes is symbolic of the new life and direction that comes from following God's will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Man of God
A prophet from Judah sent by God to deliver a message to King Jeroboam in Bethel.

2. King Jeroboam
The ruler of the northern kingdom of Israel who led the people into idolatry.

3. Bethel
A significant religious site in Israel where Jeroboam set up a golden calf for worship.

4. The Word of the LORD
The divine command given to the man of God, emphasizing obedience to God's instructions.

5. The Return Journey
The specific instruction not to return by the same route, symbolizing a complete break from the idolatrous practices encountered.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
The man of God's mission underscores the importance of strict adherence to God's instructions, even when they seem inconvenient or difficult.

The Danger of Compromise
The command not to eat or drink in Bethel serves as a warning against compromising with idolatrous practices or environments.

The Significance of the Journey
The instruction not to return by the same way symbolizes a call to transformation and a new path in obedience to God.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets are called to deliver God's message faithfully, regardless of personal cost or the response of their audience.

The Consequences of Disobedience
The broader account of 1 Kings 13 illustrates the severe consequences that can follow when God's commands are not followed.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the command given to the man of God reveal about God's expectations for obedience?

2. How can we apply the principle of not returning "by the way you came" in our spiritual lives today?

3. In what ways does the account of the man of God challenge us to evaluate our own compromises with the world?

4. How does the man of God's mission in Bethel relate to the broader theme of idolatry in the Bible?

5. What lessons can we learn from the man of God's experience about the importance of discerning and following God's voice amidst conflicting messages?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The account of Lot's wife, who was instructed not to look back at Sodom, parallels the command to the man of God not to return by the same way, emphasizing obedience and the consequences of disobedience.

Matthew 4
Jesus' temptation in the wilderness highlights the importance of adhering to God's word, as Jesus responds to each temptation with Scripture.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trusting in the Lord and not leaning on one's own understanding aligns with the man of God's need to follow God's specific instructions without deviation.