I Kings 13

“Because you have disobeyed the word of the LORD …” (v21).  The prophet from Judah (v1) was sent to warn King Jeroboam of northern Israel that judgment was coming due to false worship (v2-4). Ironically, the prophet himself disobeyed God’s command not to linger in Bethel (obeying would have kept him out of the lion’s path) and therefore judgment fell on him, too (v21-24).  Being part of “David’s kingdom” (Judah) rather than the rebellious north did not change the consequences of disobedience.

 “It is the man of God who disobeyed the word of the LORD …” (v26).  Whatever our title, background, or group identity, God’s judgment on sin in the same, as is His grace to forgive.