Definition: He said unto him, I [am] a prophet also as thou [art]; and an angel spake unto me by the word of the LORD, saying, Bring him back with thee into thine house, that he may eat bread and drink water. [But] he lied unto him.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Kings 13:18. It’s a really important and complex passage about justice and fairness in the Bible. Here's a simplified explanation: What it says: “He said unto him, I am a prophet also as thou [art]; and an angel spake unto me by the word of the LORD, saying, Bring him back with thee into thine house, that he may eat bread and drink water. But he lied unto him.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “He said unto him…” : This is a formal address – it's like speaking to someone important. “I am a prophet also as thou [art]” : This means that the person speaking was also a prophet, just like the person being addressed. It highlights a connection and shared understanding of God’s message. It suggests they were both guided by the same divine source. “an angel spake unto me…” : This refers to an angel, which is a very special messenger in the Bible. “by the word of the LORD” : This is crucial! The angel isn't speaking on their own – they’re communicating through God’s instruction. “saying, Bring him back with thee into thine house…” : This is the core of the verse. The angel instructs the person being addressed to return them to their home. “…that he may eat bread and drink water.” : This describes what the angel wants – they want to ensure the person has a comfortable life, like enjoying food and drink. The Crucial Part: “But he lied unto him.” This is where it gets really significant. The angel lied ! It means the person being addressed was dishonest and deceptive. They were trying to trick the person into returning to their home. What does this verse mean in a broader sense? This story is a warning about: Justice: It’s about fairness and righting wrongs. God isn't just punishing people for bad behavior; He also rewards those who are honest and truthful. Trust: The verse emphasizes the importance of trusting others, especially those who seem trustworthy. Divine Truth: It highlights that God always reveals His truth in a clear and straightforward way. The angel’s lie undermines the message of God's goodness. Why is this important? It tells us that even someone who seems good or helpful can be deceptive. It reminds us to be wary of those who seem too perfect, and to always seek the truth, even when it’s difficult. It sets a strong example for how we should treat others – we must always strive for honesty and integrity. In short, this verse is about God’s unwavering justice, and He doesn't tolerate dishonesty. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Connect it to a particular story or concept in the Bible?