Topical Bible: Intercession: Solicited by Jeroboam, of a Prophet

Bible > Topical > Intercession

◄ Intercession: Solicited by Jeroboam, of a Prophet ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical narrative, intercession is a significant act where an individual pleads or intervenes on behalf of another before God. One notable instance of intercession is found in the account of Jeroboam, the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel, who sought the intercession of a prophet during a time of personal crisis.

Context and Background

Jeroboam, originally a servant of King Solomon, rose to power as the leader of the ten northern tribes of Israel following the division of the united monarchy. His reign, however, was marked by idolatry and disobedience to God. In an attempt to consolidate his rule and prevent the people from returning to Jerusalem for worship, Jeroboam established alternative centers of worship in Bethel and Dan, complete with golden calves (1 Kings 12:28-30).

The Incident of Intercession

The specific incident of intercession occurs in 1 Kings 13. Jeroboam, while standing by the altar he had erected at Bethel, was confronted by a man of God from Judah. This prophet, sent by the Lord, pronounced judgment against the altar, declaring that a future king named Josiah would desecrate it (1 Kings 13:2). As a sign, the altar was to be split apart, and its ashes poured out.

In response to this prophecy, Jeroboam stretched out his hand from the altar, commanding the arrest of the man of God. However, his hand withered, rendering him unable to draw it back (1 Kings 13:4). Recognizing the severity of his condition, Jeroboam urgently solicited the prophet's intercession: "Then the king said to the man of God, 'Please entreat the LORD your God and pray for me, so that my hand may be restored.' So the man of God entreated the LORD, and the king’s hand was restored to him as it was before" (1 Kings 13:6).

Significance and Implications

This episode highlights several key themes in the biblical understanding of intercession. Firstly, it underscores the power and mercy of God, who responds to the intercessory prayer of His prophet despite Jeroboam's previous disobedience. The restoration of Jeroboam's hand serves as a testament to God's willingness to show grace even to those who have strayed from His commandments.

Secondly, the incident illustrates the role of prophets as intermediaries between God and His people. The man of God from Judah acts as a conduit for divine intervention, demonstrating the importance of faithful obedience and the power of prayer.

Lastly, Jeroboam's request for intercession, despite his idolatrous practices, reveals a recognition of the true God's authority and the efficacy of prayer offered by His chosen servants. This acknowledgment, albeit momentary, reflects the enduring belief in the necessity of seeking divine favor and intervention through appointed mediators.

In summary, the intercession solicited by Jeroboam from the prophet serves as a poignant reminder of God's readiness to respond to sincere petitions, the vital role of prophetic ministry, and the enduring power of prayer in the biblical tradition.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Kings 13:6
And the king answered and said to the man of God, Entreat now the face of the LORD your God, and pray for me, that my hand may be restored me again. And the man of God sought the LORD, and the king's hand was restored him again, and became as it was before.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

A Holy Life the Beauty of Christianity: Or, an Exhortation to ...
... 'Israel,' saith the prophet, 'hath cast ... This was that that made Joseph depart from
it, when solicited to embrace it by a very powerful argument. (Gen.34:6-7). ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a holy life the beauty.htm