Topical Bible: Hospitality: Rewarded: Widow of Zarephath's

◄ Hospitality: Rewarded: Widow of Zarephath's ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The account of the Widow of Zarephath is a profound illustration of hospitality rewarded by divine intervention, as recorded in 1 Kings 17:8-24. This narrative unfolds during a time of severe drought and famine in the land, a period marked by scarcity and desperation. The widow's account is a testament to the blessings that accompany acts of selfless hospitality, even in the face of personal hardship.

Context and Background

The Widow of Zarephath lived in the region of Sidon, a Gentile territory outside of Israel. Her encounter with the prophet Elijah occurs after the Lord commands Elijah to leave the brook Cherith, where he had been miraculously sustained by ravens. The Lord instructs Elijah to go to Zarephath, promising that a widow there would provide for him. This directive is significant, as it demonstrates God's sovereignty and provision extending beyond the borders of Israel to a Gentile woman.

The Act of Hospitality

Upon arriving at the gates of Zarephath, Elijah meets the widow gathering sticks. He requests a drink of water and a piece of bread. The widow responds with a poignant revelation of her dire situation: "As surely as the LORD your God lives," she says, "I have no bread—only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in a jug. I am gathering a few sticks to take home and prepare a meal for myself and my son, that we may eat it and die" (1 Kings 17:12).

Despite her desperate circumstances, the widow heeds Elijah's request. Elijah reassures her with a promise from the Lord: "Do not be afraid. Go and do as you have said. But first make me a small cake of bread from what you have and bring it out to me. Afterward, make some for yourself and your son. For this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'The jar of flour will not be exhausted and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the LORD sends rain on the face of the earth'" (1 Kings 17:13-14).

Divine Reward

The widow's obedience and hospitality are met with miraculous provision. As promised, the jar of flour and the jug of oil do not run out, sustaining her household throughout the duration of the famine. This miracle underscores the faithfulness of God in rewarding those who act in faith and generosity, even when resources are scarce.

Further Blessing

The narrative continues with a further test of faith and a subsequent blessing. The widow's son falls ill and dies, prompting her to question Elijah and the presence of God. Elijah takes the child to his upper room, prays fervently, and the Lord restores the child's life. This act not only affirms Elijah's prophetic authority but also deepens the widow's faith, as she declares, "Now I know that you are a man of God and that the word of the LORD from your mouth is truth" (1 Kings 17:24).

Theological Implications

The account of the Widow of Zarephath highlights several key theological themes. It illustrates God's compassion and provision for those outside the covenant community of Israel, foreshadowing the inclusion of Gentiles in God's redemptive plan. The narrative also emphasizes the power of faith and obedience, demonstrating that acts of hospitality, even when costly, are met with divine reward. The widow's experience serves as a reminder of God's ability to provide abundantly and to bring life out of death, both physically and spiritually.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Kings 17:10-24
So he arose and went to Zarephath. And when he came to the gate of the city, behold, the widow woman was there gathering of sticks: and he called to her, and said, Fetch me, I pray you, a little water in a vessel, that I may drink.
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