1 Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword.
2 Then Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, saying, “So may the gods do to me and more also, if I do not make your life as the life of one of them by this time tomorrow.”
3 Then he was afraid, and he arose and ran for his life and came to Beersheba, which belongs to Judah, and left his servant there.
4 But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness and came and sat down under a broom tree. And he asked that he might die, saying, “It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life, for I am no better than my fathers.”
5 Then he lay down under the broom tree and fell asleep.
6 And he looked, and behold, there at his head was a cake baked on hot stones and a jar of water. And he ate and drank and lay down again.
7 And the angel of the Lord came again a second time and touched him and said, “Arise and eat, for the journey is too great for you.”
8 And he arose and ate and drank, and went in the strength of that food forty days and forty nights to Horeb, the mount of God.
9 There he came to a cave and lodged in it. And behold, the word of the Lord came to him, and he said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”
10 He said, “I have been very jealous for the Lord, the God of hosts. For the people of Israel have forsaken your covenant, thrown down your altars, and killed your prophets with the sword, and I, even I only, am left, and they seek my life, to take it away.”
11 And he said, “Go out and stand on the mount before the Lord.” And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake.
12 And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper.
13 And when Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave.
14 He said, “I have been very jealous for the Lord, the God of hosts. For the people of Israel have forsaken your covenant, thrown down your altars, and killed your prophets with the sword, and I, even I only, am left, and they seek my life, to take it away.”
15 And the Lord said to him, “Go, return on your way to the wilderness of Damascus. And when you arrive, you shall anoint Hazael to be king over Syria.
16 And Jehu the son of Nimshi you shall anoint to be king over Israel, and Elisha the son of Shaphat of Abel-meholah you shall anoint to be prophet in your place.
17 And the one who escapes from the sword of Hazael shall Jehu put to death, and the one who escapes from the sword of Jehu shall Elisha put to death.
18 Yet I will leave seven thousand in Israel, all the knees that have not bowed to Baal, and every mouth that has not kissed him.”
19 So he departed from there and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen in front of him, and he was with the twelfth. Then Elijah passed by him and cast his cloak upon him.
20 And he left the oxen and ran after Elijah and said, “Let me kiss my father and my mother, and then I will follow you.” And he said to him, “Go back again, for what have I done to you?”
21 And he returned from following him and took the yoke of oxen and sacrificed them and boiled their flesh with the yokes of the oxen and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he arose and went after Elijah and assisted him.
The True Meaning of 1 Kings 19
This chapter of 1 Kings was written by the prophet Elijah, a powerful figure in the history of ancient Israel. Elijah lived during a tumultuous time, when the kingdom had split into two, and the northern kingdom of Israel had fallen into idolatry under the rule of King Ahab and his wicked wife Jezebel. Elijah flees for his life after his confrontation with the prophets of the false god Baal on Mount Carmel in this passage (1 Kings 18). Exhausted and discouraged, Elijah seeks refuge in the wilderness, where he encounters the living God in a profound way. This chapter highlights Elijah’s personal struggles and God’s gracious provision, foreshadowing the prophet’s eventual confrontation with the forces of evil and his dramatic departure from this world.
Throughout the chapter, we see echoes of other significant biblical events, such as Moses’ encounter with God at Mount Horeb (Exodus 3) and the Lord’s provision for Elijah, reminiscent of the manna and quails provided for the Israelites in the wilderness (Exodus 16). These connections remind us of God’s unwavering presence and care for His people, even in their darkest moments.
1 Kings 19:1-3
The passage in 1 Kings 19:1-3 describes the aftermath of Elijah’s victorious confrontation with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. Queen Jezebel, a formidable and unrelenting supporter of the worship of Baal, threatens Elijah’s life after her prophets are slain by the prophet of God. This moment is crucial in understanding the context of Elijah’s mental state at this point. Despite his recent successes, Elijah is left feeling defeated and fearful due to Jezebel’s threats.
Elijah’s response to Jezebel’s threat is significant as it shows a moment of weakness in a great man of faith. After experiencing a powerful demonstration of God’s power on Mount Carmel, Elijah suddenly finds himself fleeing in fear from Jezebel. This reaction can serve as a reminder to believers that even those with strong faith can be vulnerable to moments of doubt and fear. It also highlights the very human side of Elijah, demonstrating that even the most faithful servants of God can struggle with their emotions and fears.
This passage in 1 Kings 19:1-3 also reminds us of the reality of spiritual warfare. Jezebel, known for her promotion of idolatry and opposition to the worship of the true God, symbolizes the enemy’s relentless pursuit to threaten and discourage those who stand for the Lord. Her threat to Elijah can be seen as an attempt to undermine his faith and effectiveness in God’s service.
Furthermore, Elijah’s journey to Beer-sheba and leaving his servant there before traveling into the wilderness alone is symbolic of his isolation and despair. Elijah, feeling defeated and alone, seeks solace by distancing himself from even his dedicated servant. This act illustrates the deep sense of desolation and hopelessness Elijah experiences at this point in his life.
This episode with Elijah fleeing from Jezebel serves as a reminder of the need for perseverance, faith, and reliance on God even in the face of threats and challenges. It foreshadows Elijah’s encounter with God on Mount Horeb, where he will seek reassurance and direction from the Lord. Just as Elijah’s faith was momentarily shaken in this passage, believers are encouraged to turn to God in times of trial and to trust in His guidance and provision, knowing that He is always faithful to sustain and strengthen His children.
1 Kings 19:4-8
The Prophet Elijah is seen in a moment of deep despair and exhaustion in 1 Kings 19:4-8. This section is pivotal in understanding the emotional and physical state of Elijah after his powerful confrontation with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. Elijah had just witnessed the mighty display of God’s power as fire came down from heaven, consuming his offering and proving God’s supremacy over Baal. However, instead of celebrating this victory, Elijah’s life is now threatened by Queen Jezebel, who seeks to kill him. Faced with this threat and feeling completely drained, Elijah succumbs to fear and runs for his life.
Elijah’s journey into the wilderness is symbolic of his spiritual and emotional journey. He goes alone into the desert, separated from society and seeking solitude. This act of isolation reflects his feelings of loneliness and abandonment. Despite his incredible faith and boldness in confronting the prophets of Baal, Elijah is now filled with doubt and uncertainty. This drastic shift in Elijah’s demeanor reminds us of the complexities of human emotions and the very real struggles that even the most faithful servants of God can face. Elijah prays to God, asking for death in his moment of weakness. He expresses his weariness and despair, feeling that he can no longer go on. However, instead of granting Elijah’s request, God sends an angel to provide him with food and water. This act of divine intervention highlights God’s compassion and care for His servants even in their lowest moments. It also serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and provision, showing that He is always present, even when we feel most alone.
The angel’s provision of bread and water to Elijah has profound significance. This nourishment sustains Elijah on his journey to Horeb, the mountain of God. The miraculous nature of this provision echoes the manna that sustained the Israelites in the wilderness during their exodus from Egypt. Just as God provided for His people then, He now provides for Elijah, showing that His love and grace are constant and unwavering.
Elijah’s journey to Horeb, the mountain of God, is significant as it recalls the moments when Moses encountered God on Mount Sinai. This parallel emphasizes the importance of solitary encounters with God in the wilderness, where His presence is often most tangible. It is on Mount Horeb that God speaks to Elijah, asking him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” This question prompts Elijah to pour out his heart, expressing his zeal for the Lord and his feelings of isolation and danger. This passage in 1 Kings 19:4-8 serves as a powerful reminder of the human experience of doubt, fear, and exhaustion, even among God’s chosen servants. It highlights God’s compassion, provision, and faithfulness, showing that He meets us in our lowest moments and sustains us on our spiritual journeys. Elijah’s story also foreshadows the ultimate provision and sustenance that we find in Jesus Christ, who is the bread of life and living water for all who believe in Him (John 4:14, John 6:35).
1 Kings 19:9-13
Elijah has a powerful encounter with God on Mount Horeb in 1 Kings 19:9-13. Let’s break down this section into key parts for deeper analysis.
Firstly, in verse 9, Elijah arrives at the mountain and finds a cave to spend the night. This cave represents a place of isolation and refuge for Elijah. It’s reminiscent of other significant caves in the Bible, like the cave where David sought refuge from King Saul in 1 Samuel 24. Elijah, feeling hopeless and isolated after Queen Jezebel’s threats on his life, seeks solace in this remote location. God’s presence is revealed to Elijah in the following verses. The Lord asks Elijah a crucial question in verse 9b, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” This question goes beyond mere curiosity; it prompts Elijah to reflect on his mission, faith, and trust in God. It invites him to realign his focus back to the Lord. This question is significant as it shows God’s willingness to engage with His followers, to listen to their concerns and provide guidance.
Elijah responds to God’s question with a lament about the state of the Israelites forsaking their covenant, destroying God’s altars, and killing His prophets. Elijah’s distress reflects his deep passion for God’s honor and the spiritual well-being of the people of Israel. This dialogue between Elijah and God highlights the prophet’s role as a zealous defender of God’s righteousness, even amidst personal challenges and fears.
Then, in verses 11-12, a powerful encounter unfolds as God reveals Himself to Elijah. First, there is a great wind, then an earthquake, and finally a fire, but God is not in any of these forces of nature. Instead, God speaks to Elijah in a gentle whisper. This moment signifies that God’s presence and voice are not always found in grand displays of power and might but in the quiet, still moments where we are attentive to His voice. It’s a reminder of the importance of silence and listening in our relationship with God.
This passage in 1 Kings 19:9-13 teaches us several timeless lessons. It shows the importance of seeking God in moments of despair and solitude, just as Elijah sought refuge in the cave. It emphasizes the need for introspection and realignment with God’s purpose when we feel lost or overwhelmed, as seen in God’s question to Elijah. Additionally, it underscores that God’s voice can be heard in the gentlest whispers amidst the chaos of our lives, encouraging us to be still and listen for His guidance. God meets us in our moments of weakness, speaks to our hearts, and reaffirms His presence in the stillness in this encounter between Elijah and God on Mount Horeb. It challenges us to be attentive to God’s voice in our lives, to seek Him earnestly, and to trust in His guidance even in the midst of trials and uncertainty.
1 Kings 19:14-18
The prophet Elijah is seen in a moment of despair and exhaustion after his powerful victory against the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel in 1 Kings 19:14-18. Elijah expresses his feelings of failure and loneliness to God in this passage, saying, “I have been very zealous for the Lord God Almighty.” The Israelites have rejected your covenant, torn down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too.”
Elijah’s words reveal his emotional state as he feels overwhelmed by the challenges he faced. He believed that he was the only faithful servant left in Israel, which led to his feelings of isolation and despair. Despite witnessing God’s miraculous power in consuming the sacrifice on Mount Carmel, Elijah found himself in a place of fear and doubt.
This passage provides a powerful reminder that even the most faithful servants of God can experience moments of weakness and doubt. Elijah’s honesty in expressing his feelings to God shows that it is okay to bring our struggles and vulnerabilities before the Lord. It highlights the importance of seeking God in times of trouble and relying on His strength to sustain us.
God’s response to Elijah’s lament is both comforting and reassuring. He instructs Elijah to go and stand on the mountain in His presence. A great and powerful wind tears the mountains apart as Elijah stands there, but the Lord is not in the wind. After the wind, an earthquake shakes the mountain, but the Lord is not in the earthquake. Following the earthquake, a fire blazes, but the Lord is not in the fire. Finally, there comes a gentle whisper, and it is in this whisper that Elijah recognizes the presence of God.
This passage serves as a profound demonstration of God’s character. While He has the power to manifest Himself in grand displays of strength and might, He often chooses to reveal Himself in quiet and gentle ways. It echoes the sentiment expressed in Psalm 46:10, “Be still, and know that I am God.” It is in the midst of the stillness that we can truly hear the voice of God and find peace and reassurance in His presence.
Furthermore, God reassures Elijah that he is not alone in his faithfulness. He reveals that there are still seven thousand faithful Israelites who have not bowed down to Baal. This revelation shows that God’s work is not limited to what we see or know; there are always more faithful servants of God than we might realize. It exemplifies God’s faithfulness to His people and His ability to work beyond what is visible to human eyes. The passage of 1 Kings 19:14-18 offers valuable insights into the human experience of doubt and fear, the character of God as a source of strength and comfort, and the reminder that God’s plans and faithful servants are often beyond our understanding. It challenges us to trust in God’s quiet presence, even in the midst of life’s storms, and to find assurance in His faithfulness and provision.
1 Kings 19:19-21
- Breakdown of the verse:
1 Kings 19:19-21 (NIV):
“So Elijah went from there and found Elisha son of Shaphat. He was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen, and he himself was driving the twelfth pair. Elijah went up to him and threw his cloak around him. Elisha then left his oxen and ran after Elijah. ‘Let me kiss my father and mother goodbye,’ he said, ‘and then I will come with you.’ ‘Go back,’ Elijah replied. ‘What have I done to you?’ So Elisha left him and went back. He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the plowing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his servant.”
- Commentary on each section:
a. “So Elijah went from there and found Elisha son of Shaphat. He was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen, and he himself was driving the twelfth pair.” – Elijah was a prominent prophet in Israel during the reign of King Ahab, known for his unwavering faith and powerful displays of God’s miracles. Elisha, a common man who was faithfully working in his field, encounters him in this passage. Elisha, son of Shaphat, was a farmer, representing the ordinary people of Israel. The fact that he was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen signifies that he was wealthy or at least from a well-to-do family, as owning such a number of oxen was a sign of prosperity. The encounter between Elijah and Elisha shows the divine calling and selection of Elisha to succeed Elijah as a prophet.
b. “Elijah went up to him and threw his cloak around him. Elisha then left his oxen and ran after Elijah.” – The act of Elijah throwing his cloak around Elisha was a symbol of calling and succession. Elijah passes his cloak to Elisha before being taken up to heaven, symbolizing the transfer of authority, as seen in the ancient world. Elisha’s immediate response to leave his livelihood and follow Elijah demonstrates his willingness to leave everything behind to answer God’s call. This action mirrors the disciples leaving their professions to follow Jesus (Matthew 4:18-22), emphasizing the idea of forsaking worldly attachments to dedicate oneself wholly to God.
c. “‘Let me kiss my father and mother goodbye,’ he said, ‘and then I will come with you.’ ‘Go back,’ Elijah replied. ‘What have I done to you?’ So Elisha left him and went back.” – Elisha’s request to bid farewell to his family before following Elijah reflects the importance of honoring one’s parents (Exodus 20:12) even in the face of a divine calling. Elijah’s response may seem abrupt, but it highlights the urgency and commitment required in answering God’s call. The encounter serves as a reminder that following God often entails leaving behind familiar comforts and obligations, as seen in Jesus’ call to let the dead bury their own dead in Luke 9:59-62.
d. “So Elisha left him and went back. He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the plowing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his servant.” – Elisha’s act of sacrificing his oxen and equipment to feed the people signifies a decisive break from his former way of life, symbolizing a complete surrender to God’s calling. This act of burning bridges behind him shows Elisha’s determination not to look back but to fully embrace his new calling. It echoes Jesus’ teaching on the cost of discipleship, where one must be willing to forsake everything to follow Him (Luke 14:25-33). The passage from 1 Kings 19:19-21 captures the profound themes of divine calling, obedience, sacrifice, and wholehearted commitment to God’s will. It serves as a powerful reminder that answering God’s call often demands leaving behind the familiar and stepping into the unknown with faith and trust. Just as Elisha followed Elijah wholeheartedly, believers are called to follow God with unwavering devotion, willing to surrender all and embark on a journey of faith and obedience.
After 1 Kings 19
The prophet Elijah had just experienced a great victory over the prophets of Baal. But now, he was fleeing for his life, afraid of the wrath of Queen Jezebel. Exhausted and discouraged, Elijah made his way to the wilderness, where he collapsed under a broom tree, praying for death.
Yet, even in Elijah’s darkest hour, the Lord did not abandon him. God sent an angel to provide Elijah with food and water, strengthening him for the journey ahead. And as Elijah made his way to Mount Horeb, the Lord spoke to him, not in the mighty wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a still, small voice. The Lord’s gentle guidance and reassurance in the next chapter will restore Elijah’s faith and prepare him for the challenges that lay ahead. For even when we feel lost and alone, the Lord is ever-present, ready to lift us up and send us forth to fulfill His divine purpose.
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.