1 Kings 17:20

Then he cried out to the LORD, "O LORD my God, have You also brought tragedy on this widow who has opened her home to me, by causing her son to die?"

Study Bible

Then he cried out to the LORD
The phrase "cried out" in Hebrew is "קָרָא" (qara), which conveys a deep, earnest plea or call for help. This is not a casual request but a fervent, heartfelt appeal to God. Elijah, the prophet, is in a moment of desperation and urgency, demonstrating his reliance on God in times of crisis. This reflects the biblical principle that God is a refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). Elijah's cry is an example of the intimate relationship between God and His prophets, where they can express their deepest concerns and emotions.

O LORD my God
The use of "LORD" (YHWH) signifies the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal, self-existent nature and His faithfulness to His promises. "My God" indicates a personal relationship, showing that Elijah acknowledges God not just as a distant deity but as his own personal Lord. This personal relationship is foundational in the life of a believer, highlighting the importance of knowing God personally and intimately. Elijah's address to God as "my God" underscores his faith and trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, even amidst confusion and distress.

have You also brought tragedy
The word "tragedy" in Hebrew is "הֲרֵעוֹתָה" (hare'otah), which can mean evil, harm, or calamity. Elijah is questioning God's actions, which shows the human side of faith where believers sometimes struggle to understand God's ways. This reflects the biblical theme of lament, where God's people express their grief and confusion to Him, trusting that He hears and understands. It is a reminder that God is big enough to handle our questions and doubts, and that He invites us to bring our burdens to Him.

upon this widow with whom I am staying
The widow represents the vulnerable and marginalized in society, whom God repeatedly shows concern for throughout Scripture. Elijah's stay with her is a divine appointment, demonstrating God's provision and care for those who trust in Him. The widow's hospitality to Elijah, despite her own dire circumstances, is a testament to her faith and obedience. This phrase highlights the biblical principle of God's heart for the widow and orphan, and His call for His people to care for the least among them (James 1:27).

by causing her son to die?
The death of the widow's son is a moment of crisis that challenges both Elijah's and the widow's faith. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a widow losing her only son would face dire economic and social consequences, as sons were expected to provide for their mothers. This situation sets the stage for God to demonstrate His power over life and death, foreshadowing the resurrection power fully revealed in Jesus Christ. Elijah's question reflects the tension between God's promises and the present reality, a common theme in the lives of believers who walk by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elijah
A prophet of God who plays a central role in this passage. He is staying with a widow in Zarephath during a time of drought and famine.

2. The Widow of Zarephath
A Gentile woman who provides for Elijah during the drought. Her son falls ill and dies, prompting Elijah's prayer.

3. The Widow's Son
The child who becomes ill and dies, leading to Elijah's intercession with God.

4. Zarephath
A town in Sidon, outside of Israel, where Elijah is staying. It is significant as a place where God demonstrates His power and provision through Elijah.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, to whom Elijah cries out in prayer, demonstrating His sovereignty and power over life and death.

Teaching Points

The Power of Prayer
Elijah's earnest prayer demonstrates the importance of turning to God in times of crisis. Believers are encouraged to pray fervently and trust in God's power to intervene.

God's Sovereignty and Compassion
This passage illustrates God's control over life and death and His compassion for those in distress. It reassures believers of God's care and ability to bring life from death.

Faith Beyond Borders
The account of the widow of Zarephath shows that God's grace extends beyond Israel to Gentiles, reminding Christians of the universal scope of God's love and salvation.

Intercession for Others
Elijah's prayer for the widow's son highlights the role of intercessory prayer. Believers are called to pray for others, trusting that God hears and responds.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Elijah's response to the widow's son's death demonstrate his faith and relationship with God?

2. In what ways does this account challenge us to trust God in seemingly hopeless situations?

3. How can we apply the principle of intercessory prayer in our own lives, especially when others are in crisis?

4. What does this passage teach us about God's care for those outside the traditional boundaries of faith, and how can we reflect that in our interactions with others?

5. How does the account of the widow of Zarephath connect with Jesus' ministry and His message of salvation for all people?

Connections to Other Scriptures

James 5:17-18
This passage references Elijah's powerful prayers, highlighting his faith and the effectiveness of prayer.

Luke 4:25-26
Jesus mentions the widow of Zarephath, emphasizing God's care for Gentiles and the faith of those outside Israel.

Psalm 34:17-18
This psalm speaks of the LORD hearing the cries of the righteous and being near to the brokenhearted, similar to Elijah's plea.

Hebrews 11:35
This verse mentions women receiving their dead back to life, connecting to the miraculous resurrection of the widow's son.