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    1 Kings 13 (KJV)

    Read 1 Kings chapter 13 in the King James Version of the Holy Bible.

    1 Kings 13

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    1 Kings 13 Summary

    1 Kings 13 tells the strange story of a prophet from Judah who delivered God's judgment against Jeroboam's altar at Bethel. God commanded him not to eat or drink or return by the same road. But an old prophet from Bethel deceived him into disobeying, and a lion killed him on the road.

    This puzzling chapter illustrates the absolute importance of obeying God's specific commands, even when contradicted by other spiritual leaders. The young prophet's death — despite his impressive initial obedience — warns that partial obedience is still disobedience.

    Key Themes

    Obedience to God's WordDeception by False ProphetsConsequences of CompromiseSpecific Commands

    Key Verses in 1 Kings 13

    "Forasmuch as thou hast disobeyed the mouth of the LORD... thy carcase shall not come unto the sepulchre of thy fathers."

    — 1 Kings 13:21-22

    Even well-intentioned disobedience has consequences — the prophet was deceived but still held accountable.

    Life Application

    When God gives you a clear command, don't let anyone — regardless of their spiritual credentials — talk you out of it. Obey God's Word even when respected voices offer contradictory guidance.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Why was the young prophet punished for believing a lie?

    God's direct command took priority over any human claim of new revelation. The prophet was responsible for obeying what God had clearly told him.

    Why did the old prophet lie?

    His motives are unclear — possibly jealousy, curiosity, or testing. But his deception, while wrong, doesn't excuse the young prophet's failure to follow God's explicit instructions.

    Read the full summary of 1 Kings

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