He received clear orders from God, and, as a loyal Judean prophet, he didn’t whine like Moses or run away like Jonah. He packed his bags and headed north for Bethel to confront the wicked King Jeroboam. Basically, this was a suicide mission. Can you imagine the courage this took? And he did so well – until he didn’t. On the way home, he compromised his convictions, which cost him his life. He’s the unknown prophet from I Kings 13.
About this Message
This is the record of a prophet’s powerful obedience when confronting a king and participating in three miracles, followed by his dramatic collapse and death. Read his account in I Kings 13:1-32.
Moses was the successful yet humble leader of the Israelites, taking them out of Egypt, across the Red Sea, and through the wilderness for 40 years. But he, himself, was not allowed to enter the Promised Land. Ever wonder why? He, too, directly disobeyed the direction of God. Read about it in Numbers 20:1-12 and Deuteronomy 32:48-52.
King Saul really thought he was on great terms with God in I Samuel 15:1-8. Yes, he was supposed to annihilate all of the Amalekites and their livestock, but he felt convinced that he had a better idea. Why was this a problem to Samuel and to God (I Samuel 15:9-23)?
Go Deeper Questions
“To obey is better than sacrifice (I Samuel 15:22).” Consider the implications of that truth. Why do you think obedience is important to God?
When have you compromised on a clear leading from God? What were some of your justifications for this? How did that work out for you?
Share a time when the Lord was asking you to complete a task that required significant courage on your part. What did you do with the fear? Where did you find the courage?
In the Scriptures, there are more than 300 references of God saying, “I am with you,” to His children. When have you experienced and rejoiced at this truth? How might this divine commitment make a difference in your obedience walk?