Topical Encyclopedia The account of the treachery of the man of Beth-El is found in 1 Kings 13, a chapter that narrates the encounter between a man of God from Judah and an old prophet residing in Beth-El. This account is a poignant illustration of the consequences of disobedience to God's direct commands, even when misled by others who claim divine authority.Context and Background The narrative occurs during the reign of King Jeroboam of Israel, who had established a new center of worship in Beth-El, contrary to the Lord's command to worship in Jerusalem. Jeroboam's actions were a direct violation of God's covenant, leading to idolatry and apostasy among the Israelites. The Man of God from Judah A man of God, whose name is not mentioned, is sent by the Lord from Judah to prophesy against the altar at Beth-El. He delivers a message of judgment, declaring that a future king, Josiah, will desecrate the altar by burning the bones of its priests upon it (1 Kings 13:2). As a sign, the altar is miraculously split apart, and its ashes are poured out (1 Kings 13:3). The Deceptive Prophet of Beth-El After delivering his prophecy, the man of God is instructed by the Lord not to eat bread or drink water in Beth-El, nor return by the way he came (1 Kings 13:9). However, an old prophet living in Beth-El hears of the man of God's actions and deceitfully invites him to his home. The old prophet lies, claiming that an angel of the Lord instructed him to bring the man of God back to his house to eat and drink (1 Kings 13:18). The Consequences of Disobedience Tragically, the man of God from Judah believes the old prophet's lie and returns with him. While they are eating, the word of the Lord comes to the old prophet, declaring that the man of God will not be buried in the tomb of his fathers because he disobeyed the Lord's command (1 Kings 13:21-22). After leaving Beth-El, the man of God is killed by a lion, a fulfillment of the divine judgment pronounced upon him (1 Kings 13:24). Theological Implications This narrative serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of adhering to God's commands, even in the face of seemingly authoritative voices that contradict His word. The man of God's failure to discern the truth results in his untimely death, illustrating the severe consequences of disobedience. The account also highlights the responsibility of those who claim to speak for God, as the old prophet's deception leads to the downfall of a fellow servant of the Lord. Lessons for Believers The treachery of the man of Beth-El underscores the necessity for believers to remain vigilant and discerning, testing all teachings and prophecies against the revealed word of God. It warns against the dangers of false prophets and the critical need for personal accountability in one's relationship with the Lord. Nave's Topical Index Judges 1:24,25And the spies saw a man come forth out of the city, and they said to him, Show us, we pray you, the entrance into the city, and we will show you mercy. Nave's Topical Index Library Sight and Blindness From Abraham to Egypt. Growth by Transplanting Jeroboam Jacob --Israel --Jeshurun Chapter xxxiv That Vespasian, after He had Taken Gadara Made Preparation for the ... Chapter xxix Knox and Queen Mary, 1561 Chapter xxxi Resources What does the Bible say about demonic/satanic miracles? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the Merovingian Dynasty? What was its influence on church history? | GotQuestions.org Who was Abner in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Treachery: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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