The Disobedient Prophet: A Stark Warning

1 Kings chapter 13 tells the gripping and tragic story of a young prophet sent by God from Judah to Bethel. His mission was clear: to denounce King Jeroboam's idolatrous altar and deliver a powerful prophecy of its destruction. God gave him explicit instructions not to eat or drink anything in Bethel and to return by a different road. The young prophet faithfully delivered the message, and a sign from God (the altar splitting and the king's hand withering) confirmed his words.

However, on his way back, an old prophet from Bethel, claiming to have a message from an angel, deceived the young prophet into disobeying God's direct command. The young prophet ate and drank in Bethel. As a consequence of his disobedience, God sent a lion to kill him on his journey home. This chapter serves as a solemn warning about the absolute importance of obeying God's direct instructions, even when tempted or seemingly "reassured" by others who claim to speak for God. It highlights the dangers of deception and the severe consequences of disobedience.

Discussion Questions:

1. What specific instructions did God give the young prophet from Judah when he sent him to Bethel?

2. How did the young prophet initially demonstrate his obedience to God's command in front of King Jeroboam?

3. Who was the "old prophet" from Bethel, and what did he do to deceive the young prophet? Why do you think the old prophet lied?

4. Why was it so important for the young prophet to obey God's instruction, even when someone claimed to have a new message from an angel?

5. What was the consequence of the young prophet's disobedience? What does this tell us about the seriousness of following God's commands precisely?

6. This story is a stark warning about listening to God's voice above all others. How can we discern if a message or advice truly comes from God?

7. Have you ever felt tempted to disobey a clear instruction from God (or your parents/teachers) because someone else told you it was okay, or because it seemed easier?

8. What steps can we take as a family to ensure we are always striving to obey God's Word completely, even when it's difficult?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we are humbled by the powerful warning in 1 Kings chapter 13. We pray for discernment to always recognize and obey Your voice above all others. Guard us from deception and from the temptation to compromise Your clear commands. Help us to value obedience above convenience or the opinions of others. Strengthen our resolve to follow You faithfully, knowing that Your ways are always best, and that true wisdom comes from You alone. Amen.

This discussion is based on The One Year Bible Storybook by Virginia Muir.