The account of the Deceptive Old Prophet is found in 1 Kings 13, a chapter that presents a narrative rich with themes of obedience, deception, and divine judgment. This account unfolds during the reign of King Jeroboam in the Northern Kingdom of Israel, a time marked by idolatry and spiritual decline.

Context and Background

The narrative begins with a "man of God" from Judah who is sent by the LORD to Bethel to prophesy against the altar that King Jeroboam had erected for idol worship. The man of God delivers a message of judgment, declaring that a future king named Josiah will desecrate the altar. As a sign, the altar is split apart, and its ashes are poured out (1 Kings 13:1-5).

King Jeroboam, angered by the prophecy, stretches out his hand to seize the man of God, but his hand withers. The king pleads for healing, and the man of God intercedes, restoring the king's hand. Despite the king's invitation to dine and receive a reward, the man of God refuses, citing the LORD's command not to eat bread or drink water in that place, nor return by the way he came (1 Kings 13:6-10).

The Deceptive Encounter

The narrative takes a pivotal turn with the introduction of an old prophet living in Bethel. Upon hearing of the man of God's actions, the old prophet seeks him out. He finds the man of God resting under an oak tree and invites him to his home for a meal. The man of God initially declines, reiterating the LORD's command. However, the old prophet deceives him by claiming that an angel instructed him to bring the man of God back to his house to eat and drink (1 Kings 13:11-18).

The man of God, swayed by the old prophet's lie, returns with him and partakes in a meal. During the meal, the word of the LORD comes to the old prophet, pronouncing judgment on the man of God for his disobedience. The prophecy declares that the man of God will not be buried in the tomb of his fathers (1 Kings 13:19-22).

Judgment and Aftermath

After leaving the old prophet's house, the man of God encounters a lion on the road, which kills him. Remarkably, the lion does not devour the body nor harm the donkey, standing beside the corpse. This unusual scene is witnessed by passersby, who report it back to the city (1 Kings 13:23-25).

The old prophet retrieves the body of the man of God and mourns over him, acknowledging the fulfillment of the LORD's word. He buries the man of God in his own tomb and instructs his sons to lay his bones beside the man of God when he dies, recognizing the truth of the prophecy against the altar (1 Kings 13:26-32).

Theological Implications

The account of the Deceptive Old Prophet serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of unwavering obedience to God's commands. It highlights the dangers of deception, even from those who claim spiritual authority. The narrative underscores the sovereignty of God in fulfilling His word, regardless of human actions or intentions. The account also reflects the broader theme of Israel's spiritual waywardness during the divided kingdom era, emphasizing the need for repentance and faithfulness to the LORD.