NOTES for Ki1 13:1-34

The unnamed prophet cursed the pagan altar and then showed Jeroboam another sign. It would seem that the king had been given an opportunity to see the futility of his pagan pursuits. But he did not abandon them...

The prophet leaves Jeroboam by a different road from the one by which he came, and this reminds us of the Magi, who likewise would leave an impious king by another road. In both cases, those departing follow an instruction given to them in a revelation. But the unnamed prophet proved unsteadfast in following the Lord’s will and, contrary to it, accepted another prophet’s invitation. Well then, knowing the Heavenly Father’s will is not enough; one also needs firmness so as not to turn aside from His path.

The second prophet, who resorted to deceit in order to keep the first prophet with him, thereby provoked his death. His action brings to mind the popular saying about a “white lie,” since he wanted what was best. But where fulfilling the Lord’s will is concerned, human considerations too often prove mistaken.

It must be no accident that the Book does not contain the names of either prophet who departed from his duty. Who knows? Had they behaved differently, perhaps paganism in Israel would have been weaker...