Topical Encyclopedia
In the biblical narrative, reproof is a significant theme, particularly in the context of prophetic ministry. The account of the unnamed prophet from Judah who confronts King Jeroboam of Israel is a poignant example of reproof and faithfulness. This account is found in
1 Kings 13, where the prophet is sent by God to deliver a message of judgment against Jeroboam's idolatrous practices.
Context and BackgroundJeroboam, the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel after the division of the united monarchy, established golden calves at Bethel and Dan, leading Israel into idolatry (
1 Kings 12:28-30). This act was a direct violation of the first and second commandments, which prohibit the worship of other gods and the making of idols (
Exodus 20:3-4). In response to this apostasy, God sent a prophet from Judah to Bethel to deliver a message of reproof.
The Prophet's MissionThe prophet's mission was clear: to confront Jeroboam at the altar in Bethel and to prophesy the destruction of the altar and the desecration of the idolatrous practices. The prophet declared, "O altar, altar, thus says the LORD: ‘Behold, a son shall be born to the house of David, Josiah by name, and upon you he shall sacrifice the priests of the high places who burn incense on you, and human bones shall be burned on you’” (
1 Kings 13:2). This prophecy was a direct challenge to Jeroboam's authority and a call to repentance.
The Sign and Jeroboam's ReactionTo authenticate his message, the prophet provided a sign: "The altar will be split apart, and the ashes upon it will be poured out" (
1 Kings 13:3). When Jeroboam heard the words of the prophet, he stretched out his hand from the altar, commanding his arrest. However, his hand withered, and the altar was indeed split apart, fulfilling the sign given by the prophet (
1 Kings 13:4-5).
Jeroboam's immediate reaction was one of fear and a plea for intercession. He asked the prophet to pray for the restoration of his hand, which the prophet did, and Jeroboam's hand was restored (
1 Kings 13:6). Despite this miraculous event, Jeroboam did not turn from his evil ways, illustrating the hardness of his heart and the persistent rebellion against God's commands.
The Prophet's Faithfulness and DisobedienceThe prophet from Judah demonstrated faithfulness in delivering God's message despite the potential danger from the king. However, the narrative takes a tragic turn when the prophet disobeys God's specific command not to eat bread or drink water in Bethel, nor return by the way he came (
1 Kings 13:9). Deceived by an old prophet from Bethel, he returns to eat and drink, leading to his demise by a lion as a consequence of his disobedience (
1 Kings 13:20-24).
Theological ImplicationsThis account underscores the importance of obedience to God's word, even for those who are His messengers. The prophet's initial faithfulness in delivering the message of reproof to Jeroboam highlights the role of prophets as instruments of divine correction. However, his subsequent disobedience serves as a sobering reminder of the necessity for complete adherence to God's instructions.
The account of the prophet from Judah and Jeroboam illustrates the tension between divine reproof and human response. It highlights the faithfulness required of God's servants and the consequences of disobedience, both for the prophet and for those who reject God's reproof.
Nave's Topical Index
1 Kings 13:1-10And, behold, there came a man of God out of Judah by the word of the LORD to Bethel: and Jeroboam stood by the altar to burn incense.
Nave's Topical Index2 Chronicles 13:8-11
And now you think to withstand the kingdom of the LORD in the hand of the sons of David; and you be a great multitude, and there are with your golden calves, which Jeroboam made you for gods.
Nave's Topical Index
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