1 Kings 13 - Test the Spirits

Chris Priestley

Many who stand boldly before wicked kings still yet bow before lying prophets.

When a man of God spoke the Word of God against Jeroboam, the wicked king offered him what God forbade. He was not deterred, but stood his ground with conviction.

"But the man of God said to the king, 'Even if you gave me half of everything you own, I would not go with you... For the Lord gave me this command...'" (1 Kings 13:8-9)

When that same man of God was offered what God forbade by a lying prophet, he quickly relented, "defied the Word of the Lord," (v21) and became the prey of a lion (v26).

"But the old prophet answered, 'I am a prophet, too, just as you are. And an angel gave me this command from the Lord...' But the old man was lying to him. So they went back together..." (v18-19)

So many who would stand boldly against wicked kings, cower before or cover for or follow after lying prophets.

Discern the spirits (1 John 4:1). Don't be naive. Gullibility is not a fruit of the Spirit. When a pastor or teacher says God told them He permits what God's Word forbids, stand on the Word (Jeremiah 23:21-22).

Not all who say they are men of God, know God.

Not all who claim to speak for God, listen to God (Matt. 7:21-23.

Hold fast to the Word (Isaiah 8:20). Relaxing your conviction, because of a lying prophet's compromise, will only make you bait for the devourer.