A Lion Kills The Man of God

I Kings 13:20–34
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The old prophet announced the fate of the younger prophet (vv. 20-22). He had disobeyed the Lord’s command and God’s judgement would be severe. The severity of this judgement was due to the importance of this young man’s mission. Even though the old prophet had sinned, the word of the Lord came to him again, as it did to many other prophets of the Lord who sinned. The old man announced the fate of his brother prophet then and there.

When the young prophet returned south he was killed by a lion that was obviously prepared by God for this judgement (vv. 23-24). This was obvious because the lion did not eat the carcass of the prophet nor bother his donkey (vv. 25-29). The old prophet brought his body back to Bethel and laid it in his own grave (v. 30). Undoubtedly, this old prophet suffered the pains of guilt for having had a part in the man of God’s death.

This incident was no doubt intended to teach Jeroboam and the Israelites the danger of disregarding the word of the Lord. However, Jeroboam still did not change his evil ways. The total disregard for the will of God, as expressed in the Law of Moses, resulted in Jeroboam’s downfall and destruction(vv. 31-33).  Even though God used political situations and social conditions to bring about his will, this sin was the root cause of Israel’s fall (v. 34). Because of this sin the house of Jeroboam was cut off and destroyed from the face of the earth.

Application

This passage of scripture clarifies the importance of consistent and complete obedience to the Word of God. It also illustrates that added privilege brings increased responsibility. The more I know the greater responsibility I have to serve and obey Him.