The Dangers of Compromising God's Word
Good morning brethren, I would like to share a few thoughts from 1 Kings 13, a chapter that highlights incomplete obedience, spiritual deception, and the danger of compromising God’s Word. By way of background, Jeroboam was king of Israel, and sadly, he led the nation into idolatry. In response, God sent a man of God from Judah with a clear prophetic assignment: to prophesy against the altar, perform a confirming sign of God’s power, and then leave without eating bread, drinking water, or returning by the same route. In the opening verses, we see this man of God obey promptly and courageously. He confronts the king without fear, stands firm when Jeroboam offers him rewards, and refuses hospitality in obedience to God’s command. This shows us that boldness in ministry flows from obedience, not popularity or comfort.
You may be gifted, but you must always remember that you are governed by God’s Word. When declining the king’s invitation, the man of God states clearly in verses 8–9 “For the Lord has given me strict orders not to eat anything or drink any water while I’m here, and not to return to Judah by the road I came on.” This information reaches an old prophet, who quickly saddles his donkey and goes after him. Scripture tells us that he finds the man of God resting under an oak tree (1 Kings 13:13–14). While rest is necessary, it can also become a moment of vulnerability or distraction from purpose. Perhaps the old prophet would not have caught up with him had he not stopped. The old prophet then lies, saying, “An angel spoke to me by the word of the Lord…” Sadly, the man of God chooses another voice over God’s clear instruction. One crucial lesson here is that not every spiritual voice is from God, even when it comes from someone respected or familiar. Truth does not change simply because the messenger sounds spiritual. Every voice must be tested and confirmed against God’s Word. Because of his disobedience, judgment follows. On his way back, a lion kills him—but notably, the lion does not attack the donkey. This reminds us that anointing does not excuse disobedience. The man of God’s gift did not shield him from consequences. Verse 29 tells us “So the prophet laid the body upon the donkey and took it back to the city to mourn over it and bury it.” Ironically, the prophet who deceived him honours him in death, while King Jeroboam still refuses to repent. And as we know, repentance delayed is repentance denied.
In conclusion, we must walk in personal obedience with God and guard His Word within us. Partial obedience is full disobedience. As we reflect, ask yourself - am I doing what God has asked me to do? Whose voice am I trusting over God’s voice? Is my obedience full—or selective? Service begins at 10:30am, s pecial worker’s training begins at 10:10am. God bless you - Mike