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◄ Obedience to God: Elijah►

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Topical Encyclopedia

Elijah, a prophet in the Old Testament, is a profound example of obedience to God. His life and ministry, as recorded in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Kings, demonstrate unwavering faithfulness to God's commands, even in the face of adversity and danger.

Calling and Early Ministry

Elijah the Tishbite, from Tishbe in Gilead, first appears in1 Kings 17:1, where he boldly confronts King Ahab of Israel. Elijah declares, "As the LORD, the God of Israel, lives, before whom I stand, there will be neither dew nor rain in these years, except at my word" (1 Kings 17:1). This proclamation of drought was a direct command from God, illustrating Elijah's role as a messenger of divine judgment against the idolatry and apostasy of Israel under Ahab and Jezebel.

Provision and Miracles

Following God's instructions, Elijah retreats to the Kerith Ravine, where he is miraculously fed by ravens (1 Kings 17:2-6). This period of isolation and divine provision underscores Elijah's reliance on God and his obedience to God's guidance. Later, Elijah is sent to Zarephath, where he encounters a widow and her son. Through Elijah's obedience, God provides for them during the drought, and Elijah performs the miracle of multiplying the widow's oil and flour (1 Kings 17:8-16).

Confrontation on Mount Carmel

One of the most dramatic demonstrations of Elijah's obedience occurs on Mount Carmel. In1 Kings 18, Elijah challenges the prophets of Baal to a contest to reveal the true God of Israel. Elijah's faith and obedience are evident as he repairs the altar of the LORD and prays for God to send fire from heaven. The LORD answers Elijah's prayer, consuming the sacrifice with fire, leading the people to proclaim, "The LORD, He is God! The LORD, He is God!" (1 Kings 18:39). This event not only vindicates Elijah's prophetic ministry but also calls the nation back to the worship of Yahweh.

Perseverance in Adversity

Despite his triumph on Mount Carmel, Elijah faces intense opposition from Queen Jezebel, who vows to kill him (1 Kings 19:1-2). Elijah's subsequent flight into the wilderness reveals his humanity and vulnerability. Yet, even in despair, Elijah remains obedient to God's voice. In1 Kings 19:11-13, God speaks to Elijah in a gentle whisper, providing him with renewed purpose and direction. Elijah's obedience is further demonstrated as he anoints Elisha as his successor and continues his prophetic mission.

Legacy and Ascension

Elijah's life concludes with his ascension into heaven, a testament to his faithful obedience. In2 Kings 2:11, Elijah is taken up by a whirlwind in a chariot of fire, leaving behind a legacy of prophetic zeal and unwavering commitment to God. His life serves as a powerful example of obedience, illustrating the blessings and challenges that accompany a life devoted to following God's will.

Throughout his ministry, Elijah exemplifies the essence of obedience to God. His actions, driven by divine command, reflect a deep trust in God's sovereignty and a willingness to stand firm in faith, regardless of the circumstances. Elijah's account continues to inspire believers to pursue a life of obedience, trusting in God's provision and guidance.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Kings 17:5
So he went and did according to the word of the LORD: for he went and dwelled by the brook Cherith, that is before Jordan.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Elijah Come Again
... No two figures in Scripture are truer brethren in spirit thanElijah the Tishbite
and John the... Real rectitude cannot live apart fromobedience toGod....

Elijah Standing Before the Lord
... a real, earnest, though imperfectobedience toGod.... sense of absolute submission
beforeGod, in another... in authority over others, whichElijah's true brother...

The Prolonged Life of the Ancients, the Translation ofElijah and...
...Elijah, too, was caught up [when he was yet] in the... who were translated it performed
something wonderful, working inobedience to the will ofGod, even the...

Elijah, the Praying Prophet
... The archangel Gabriel had scarcely more unflinching devotion, more courage, and
more readiness ofobedience, and more jealously ofGod's honor, thanElijah....

Obedience
...God deserves the flower and strength of our affections.... It is fervency that makes
obedience acceptable.Elijah was fervent in spirit, and his prayer opened and...

The Temptation
... the false prophets had been slain, and the people had declared their allegiance
toGod,Elijah fled for... He was in the wilderness inobedience toGod, and He...

Concerning Ahaziah; the King of Israel; and Again Concerning the...
... reign, the king of Moab fell off from hisobedience, and left... to inquire about his
recovery [4] but theGod of the Hebrews appeared toElijah the prophet...

The Impending Conflict
... charge all their troubles upon those whoseobedience toGod's... urged of old against
the servant ofGod will be... it came to pass, when Ahab sawElijah, that Ahab...

The Impending Conflict.
... charge all their troubles upon those whoseobedience toGod's... urged of old against
the servant ofGod will be... it came to pass, when Ahab sawElijah, that Ahab...

Noah's Faith, Fear,Obedience, and Salvation
... Noah'sobedience followed the command as he learned it.... You remember howGod said
toElijah, "Hide thyself"; and away went the prophet to the brook Cherith...