The Danger Of Disobeying Divine Instructions Series

THE DANGER OF DISOBEYING DIVINE INSTRUCTIONS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Kings 13:1-34

Supporting Texts: 1 Samuel 15:22-23; Proverbs 4:13; Galatians 1:8; Ecclesiastes 5:1-2; Hebrews 2:1-3

INTRODUCTION:

1 Kings 13 presents a profound and sobering story about a prophet sent by God to confront King Jeroboam’s idolatry. Though he began in obedience, his failure to follow through on God’s exact instructions led to his tragic death. This chapter highlights the importance of full obedience to God’s voice, even when the disobedience seems small or the alternative sounds spiritual.

God is a God of precision. Partial obedience is disobedience, and disobedience always carries consequences. No spiritual gift, title, or past faithfulness excuses rebellion against God’s clear commands. The unnamed prophet’s downfall came not from the king’s threats, but from trusting a lie disguised in spiritual language.

This chapter teaches us that hearing God is not enough—we must obey Him to the letter. Even another “prophet” cannot override what God has directly said to us.

1. GOD EXPECTS COMPLETE OBEDIENCE TO HIS INSTRUCTIONS

The man of God was given a clear mandate with strict boundaries.

a) “You shall eat no bread, nor drink water, nor return by the same way you came.” (1 Kings 13:9)

God’s instructions were specific and non-negotiable.

b) Divine commands are not suggestions—they are sacred charges

The mission was prophetic, and the lifestyle was part of the message.

c) Delayed or selective obedience exposes us to danger

One compromise can cancel divine protection.

d) Spiritual authority must be expressed through faithful obedience

Prophets represent God and must not deviate from His will.

Biblical Example: Saul lost his throne for disobeying God’s command concerning Amalek (1 Samuel 15:22–23).

2. SPIRITUAL ASSIGNMENTS MUST BE COMPLETED WITHOUT DISTRACTIONS

The prophet boldly delivered the message to King Jeroboam and left immediately.

a) “So he went another way and did not return by the way he came.” (1 Kings 13:10)

He initially followed God’s instruction carefully.

b) Spiritual success includes both starting and finishing as commanded

It is not enough to deliver the message—we must complete the journey.

c) Obedience must not waver under pressure, applause, or personal comfort

Even when the king offered hospitality, he refused.

d) The servant of God must remain focused and unmoved by reward or honour

Divine assignments require discipline.

Biblical Example: Nehemiah refused to come down from the wall to discuss with enemies (Nehemiah 6:3).

3. SPIRITUAL DECEPTION CAN COME IN RELIGIOUS CLOTHING

An old prophet lied to the man of God, claiming an angel spoke to him.

a) “I too am a prophet as you are… but he lied to him.” (1 Kings 13:18)

Not everyone who carries a title speaks the truth.

b) Satan uses familiar voices to lead believers into disobedience

The lie sounded spiritual but contradicted God’s word.

c) No prophecy, vision, or angelic message should override what God has already spoken to you

We must test every spirit.

d) Every believer must grow in discernment to avoid spiritual manipulation

Even sincere people can be sincerely wrong.

Biblical Example: Paul warned against even angels preaching a different gospel (Galatians 1:8).

4. DISOBEDIENCE OPENS THE DOOR TO TRAGEDY

The man of God ate and drank, and was later killed by a lion.

a) “Because you have disobeyed the word of the Lord…” (1 Kings 13:21)

The consequences were swift and irreversible.

b) Divine judgment may come when mercy is despised

He knew God’s voice but chose to listen to man.

c) A lion killed him but did not eat his body—God was sending a message

It was divine discipline, not coincidence.

d) Disobedience tarnishes spiritual legacy and destiny

Though he began well, he died dishonourably.

Biblical Example: Ananias and Sapphira died instantly for disobedience (Acts 5:1-10).

5. GOD’S PURPOSE WILL PREVAIL DESPITE HUMAN FAILURE

Even though the prophet failed, the prophecy against Jeroboam’s altar stood firm.

a) “This is the man of God who was disobedient to the word of the Lord…” (1 Kings 13:26)

The old prophet acknowledged his role in the tragedy.

b) God may use a vessel, but the vessel must walk in integrity

Being used by God does not equal approval by God.

c) God’s word is unstoppable—our obedience or failure does not change His plan

The altar was still condemned, and judgment still came.

d) We are responsible for our role in God’s plan, even if others fail

God moves on, but individuals bear the cost of disobedience.

Biblical Example: Judas’ betrayal fulfilled prophecy, but he was still judged (Matthew 26:24).

CONCLUSION:

This chapter is a loud warning to every believer and minister: partial obedience is still disobedience. Even when you hear from God, the devil may attempt to derail your obedience using religious voices, familiar relationships, or emotional pressure. It is not enough to hear clearly—you must obey completely.