Topical Bible: Judgments: Preservation During

◄ Judgments: Preservation During - Exemplified: Elijah ►

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Context and Background

Elijah, a prophet of the Lord, stands as a prominent figure in the Old Testament, particularly in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Kings. His ministry occurred during a time of great apostasy in Israel, under the reign of King Ahab and Queen Jezebel, who led the nation into idolatry, primarily the worship of Baal. Elijah's life and ministry are marked by divine interventions and judgments, through which God demonstrated His power and sovereignty.

Divine Judgment and Preservation

Elijah's account is a profound example of God's preservation during times of judgment. One of the most notable instances is the drought pronounced by Elijah as a judgment upon Israel for their idolatry. In 1 Kings 17:1, 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." This drought lasted for three and a half years, as confirmed in James 5:17.

Provision at the Brook Cherith

During this period of judgment, God provided for Elijah in miraculous ways. In 1 Kings 17:2-6, the Lord instructs Elijah to hide by the Brook Cherith, east of the Jordan. There, God commands ravens to bring him bread and meat every morning and evening, and Elijah drinks from the brook. This supernatural provision underscores God's ability to sustain His faithful servant even amidst widespread judgment and scarcity.

Sustenance by the Widow of Zarephath

As the drought continued, the brook eventually dried up, prompting God to direct Elijah to Zarephath, where a widow would provide for him. In 1 Kings 17:8-16, Elijah encounters the widow gathering sticks to prepare a final meal for herself and her son before succumbing to starvation. Elijah, however, assures her that the Lord will not let her flour and oil run out until the Lord sends rain upon the land. The widow's obedience results in a miraculous supply of food, demonstrating God's provision and preservation through faith and obedience.

Protection on Mount Carmel

Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel is another significant event illustrating divine preservation. In 1 Kings 18:20-40, Elijah challenges the prophets to a contest to demonstrate the true God. Despite being vastly outnumbered, Elijah remains confident in God's power. The Lord answers Elijah's prayer by sending fire from heaven to consume the sacrifice, proving His supremacy and preserving Elijah from the wrath of the false prophets and the people.

Preservation from Jezebel's Threat

Following the victory on Mount Carmel, Elijah faces a threat from Queen Jezebel, who vows to kill him. In 1 Kings 19:1-8, Elijah flees into the wilderness, where he experiences despair and exhaustion. Yet, even in this moment of vulnerability, God provides for Elijah by sending an angel to offer food and water, strengthening him for a forty-day journey to Mount Horeb. This episode highlights God's continued care and preservation of Elijah, even when he feels overwhelmed and alone.

Conclusion

Elijah's life exemplifies God's faithfulness in preserving His servants during times of judgment. Through miraculous provision, protection, and guidance, God demonstrates His sovereignty and care for those who remain faithful to Him. Elijah's experiences serve as a testament to the enduring power and presence of God amidst trials and judgments.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Kings 17:9
Arise, get you to Zarephath, which belongs to Zidon, and dwell there: behold, I have commanded a widow woman there to sustain you.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Exposition of the Moral Law.
... so great, that has statutes and judgments so righteous ... of charity which can contribute
to his preservation. ... to us without figure; first, that during our whole ...
/.../calvin/the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 8 exposition of the.htm

An Essay on the Scriptural Doctrine of Immortality.
... from the history of Abel, is exemplified in a ... But what the spirit is thus made during
its passage ... spite of the promptings of self-preservation, exposes himself ...
/.../an essay on the scriptural.htm