A prophet is slain because he is deceived by another prophet. The first prophet had warned Jeroboam of his bad ways, but he didn't repent and continued in the same.
A lesson in obedience it seems. Also a lesson in setting an example.
The lesson in obedience comes from the experience of the prophet that was slain. He was led astray by the other prophet, not having confirmed with The Lord about what he should do. It is interesting that this is another prophet that leads him astray.The JST says that the prophet actually didn't lie to him, but was sent to prove the prophet. This would seem more consistent with how a prophet should act.
Regardless of the righteousness of this prophet, the first prophet accepts the invitation without consulting The Lord. As a result...he is killed.
Disobedience brings spiritual death. That much is clear. Even if the someone is your friend, a church member, or anyone else, it doesn't give reason to disobedience. One must put the Lord's commandments first and foremost.
On another note, I wonder how his survival would have helped the situation with Jeroboam. Would Jeroboam have repented since the prophet would not have been slain? Perhaps, but we don't really know. Personally, however, if someone gave me advice, then was killed for their actions, I feel like their advice would be null and void.
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