At first read, this chapter seems to be about two separate incidents. Is that truly so?

A man of God from Judah calls Jeroboam to account for his offerings at Bethel. Jeroboam was making offerings at the altars, which become a sin for the people. The man of God from Judah proclaims judgement against the altar at Bethel as Jeroboam made his offerings.

An old prophet from Bethel tests the Word that the man of God from Judah received from Yahweh. Three times we are told the man of God from Judah is not to eat bread, drink water, or return by the way he came (verses 9, 17, 21). However, the man of God from Judah compromises his mission, returning to eat and drink, contrary to what God has commanded him. He was condemned and killed by a lion.

In the final verses of this chapter, we learn that Jeroboam did not turn from his evil way, despite the warning at the altar. He ordained any who would, to be priests of the high places, and it was a sin that would lead to the nation’s ultimate destruction.

The disobedience of Jeroboam to the Word of Yahweh leads him to the same fate as the disobedience of the man of God from Judah. The man of God from Judah had brought the Word of God in condemning Jeroboam’s place of worship. The mission of this prophet was to deliver his message and return to Judah without accepting any hospitality. However, when tested by the old prophet from Bethel, the man of God from Judah was unfaithful to the mission. The death of the man of God from Judah for his disobedience is proof that he had indeed proclaimed the Word of God, and that God’s Word requires unconditional obedience.

In context, this story illustrates the problem of false prophecy in Israel. A true prophet has to be unconditionally obedient to the Word of God, allowing his entire life to be controlled by it. The Word of God must be held on, and fully obeyed. Both men in the two separate incidents did not obey the commandments of God fully, and both were judged.

As we reflect on the state of our own with God today, are we holding on tight to the Word of God? First, may we acknowledge the privilege of receiving God’s Word. Second, may we bear the responsibility to know God’s Word carefully, clearly, and intimately for ourselves, not through the Words of pastors or teachers, but through our own study and reflection of God’s Word. Third, may we live out God’s Word through our speech and actions, reflecting on His Word day and night. Finally, may we hold on tightly to the Word of God, allowing God’s Word to be the light to our path.

Prayer : Dear God, thank you that I may know You through Your given Word. Help me to draw near to You each day, and to meditate on Your Word day and night, so that Your Word may direct my path. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.