In a surprising twist of events, the widow to whom Elijah was sent finds her son near to death, and blames Elijah! Elijah moves in faith and prayer and puts his life on the line to give life to the widow’s son. How can we go to the places where death is currently reigning, and stretch out like Elijah to bring life and wholeness? How does the gospel empower us to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God?
Stretched Out
April 21, 2024 • Jon Schuler • 1 Kings 17:17–24
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Trouble Makers
Legacy of a Trouble Maker
May 26, 2024 • Steve Hart • 1 Kings 19:19–21, 2 Kings 2:8–15
Elijah’s final work as a prophet is to raise up Elisha, who requests — and receives! — a “double portion” of his spirit. Like Elijah, our mission is not simply to be faithful in our day but also to help others be faithful, who can help others be faithful. This is the pattern we see in Jesus, too, and the command he gave us as his disciples. As we conclude our series in Elijah, we consider what it looks like to replicate, becoming communities that exist to grow, wrap others in, and continue to form disciples.
Running from Jezebel
May 19, 2024 • Gabe Shippam • 1 Kings 19:1–18
With one short sentence from Jezebel, Elijah runs for his life. He’s gone from the mountain top of spiritual revival on Mt Carmel to the depth of despair, ready to quit. God meets him in the wilderness and provides a snack and a nap, and he’s enabled to carry on. As he arrives at Horeb, he’s still spiritually uncertain and feeling abandoned by God — but God meets him and gives him fresh direction. Elijah is renewed by time away and time in God’s presence. The gospel assures us of God's unfailing love and grace, which sustains us through every trial and empowers us to overcome fear with faith in Him. When we face fear and discouragement we can find comfort and strength in Jesus, who promises to never leave us nor forsake us.
Praying the Promise
May 12, 2024 • Matt Deisen • 1 Kings 18:41–46
Elijah prays for the rain to come and... nothing happens. But Elijah persists in prayer until a breakthrough comes. Like Daniel in Babylon, or the widow before the unjust judge, there is a persistence and tenacity in his prayer life. We likewise are called to be consistent and tenacious in our prayers, trusting in God's goodness, and recognizing prayer as an act of war. James says Elijah is a man just like us, and we too can approach the Lord in faith, trusting Him for great things.