Topical Encyclopedia The phrase "hand was on Elijah" refers to the divine empowerment and guidance that the prophet Elijah received from God, enabling him to perform miraculous acts and fulfill his prophetic ministry. This expression is rooted in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal and his subsequent actions as recorded in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Kings.Biblical Context The phrase is most notably associated with the events described in 1 Kings 18. After a prolonged drought in Israel, Elijah challenges the prophets of Baal to a contest on Mount Carmel to demonstrate the power of the true God. Following the dramatic victory where God answers Elijah's prayer by sending fire from heaven, the people of Israel acknowledge the LORD as the true God. Elijah then prays for rain, and God responds by ending the drought. 1 Kings 18:46 states, "And the hand of the LORD was on Elijah, and he tucked his cloak into his belt and ran ahead of Ahab all the way to Jezreel." This verse highlights the supernatural strength and speed granted to Elijah, allowing him to outrun King Ahab's chariot over a significant distance. The "hand of the LORD" signifies divine intervention and empowerment, enabling Elijah to accomplish tasks beyond human capability. Theological Significance The "hand of the LORD" on Elijah underscores the theme of divine sovereignty and the empowerment of God's chosen servants. Elijah's ministry is marked by moments where God's power is visibly at work, affirming Elijah's role as a prophet and the authenticity of his message. This divine empowerment serves as a testament to God's active involvement in the affairs of His people and His ability to work through individuals to achieve His purposes. Elijah's experience is a reminder of the biblical principle that God equips those He calls. The empowerment by God's hand is not limited to physical strength but extends to wisdom, courage, and the ability to perform miracles, all of which are evident in Elijah's life and ministry. Elijah's Legacy Elijah's prophetic ministry, characterized by the hand of the LORD upon him, left a lasting impact on the nation of Israel and the biblical narrative. His life and actions are frequently referenced in both the Old and New Testaments, serving as a model of faithfulness and divine empowerment. Elijah's experiences foreshadow the coming of John the Baptist, who is described as coming "in the spirit and power of Elijah" (Luke 1:17), and ultimately point to the greater works of Jesus Christ. In summary, the phrase "hand was on Elijah" encapsulates the divine empowerment and guidance that characterized Elijah's prophetic ministry, demonstrating God's active role in equipping and sustaining His servants for the fulfillment of His divine purposes. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 18:46And the hand of the LORD was on Elijah; and he girded up his loins, and ran before Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel. Nave's Topical Index Library "The Spirit and Power of Elijah" --Not the Soul --Were in the ... To those who Object that Elijah Has not yet Come, He Replies that ... Elijah, the Praying Prophet Elijah and the Widow's Son. Elijah the Tishbite Elijah at Sarepta Ahab and Elijah Elijah's Mantle. 2Ki 51:11-14 The Translation of Elijah and the Ascension of Christ Elijah Come Again Resources What is the right hand of fellowship (Galatians 2:9)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the hand of Hamsa? | GotQuestions.org Why did oaths involve putting a hand under someone's thigh (Genesis 24:9)? | GotQuestions.org Hand: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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