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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1"><title>1 Kings 19 Pulpit Commentary Homiletics</title><link rel="stylesheet" href="/5001com.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="../spec.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><link media="handheld, only screen and (max-width: 4800px), only screen and (max-device-width: 4800px)" href="/4801.css" type="text/css" rel="stylesheet" /><link media="handheld, only screen and (max-width: 1550px), only screen and (max-device-width: 1550px)" href="/1551.css" type="text/css" rel="stylesheet" /><link media="handheld, only screen and (max-width: 1250px), only screen and (max-device-width: 1250px)" href="/1251.css" type="text/css" rel="stylesheet" /><link media="handheld, only screen and (max-width: 1050px), only screen and (max-device-width: 1050px)" href="/1051.css" type="text/css" rel="stylesheet" /><link media="handheld, only screen and (max-width: 900px), only screen and (max-device-width: 900px)" href="/901.css" type="text/css" rel="stylesheet" /><link media="handheld, only screen and (max-width: 800px), only screen and (max-device-width: 800px)" href="/801.css" type="text/css" rel="stylesheet" /><link media="handheld, only screen and (max-width: 575px), only screen and (max-device-width: 575px)" href="/501.css" type="text/css" rel="stylesheet" /><link media="handheld, only screen and (max-height: 450px), only screen and (max-device-height: 450px)" href="/h451.css" type="text/css" rel="stylesheet" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/print.css" type="text/css" media="Print" /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-LR4HSKRP2H"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-LR4HSKRP2H'); </script><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="../cmenus/1_kings/19.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="//biblehu.com/bmcom/1_kings/19-1.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="//biblehub.com">Bible</a> > <a href="../">Pulpit Commentary Homiletics</a> > 1 Kings 19</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="../1_kings/18.htm" title="1 Kings 18">◄</a> 1 Kings 19 <a href="../1_kings/20.htm" title="1 Kings 20">►</a></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheading">Pulpit Commentary Homiletics</div><div class="chap"><div class="comm"><div class="ttl"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/auth/macdonald/elijah's_prayer_for_death.htm">Elijah's Prayer For Death </a></div><div class="vrs"><a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/1_kings/19-1.htm">1 Kings 19:1-8</a></div><div class="auth"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/authors/macdonald.htm">J.A. Macdonald </a></div>How erratic have been the movements of this prophet! Our first introduction to him is at the court of Ahab, whence, as soon as he utters his prophecy, he is away to Cherith in the east, among the wilds of Gilead. Next we find him in the north, at Zarephath of Zidon. Then he meets Obadiah, probably in the plain of Esdraelon, whence he passes over to Carmel in the west. From Carmel he runs before Ahab's horses to the entrance of Jezreel. The next day finds him on his way to Beer-sheba in the extreme south of Judah. The day following he is pushing his way into the wilderness of Sinai, where we now find him under a shrub, requesting for himself that he may die. Let us consider - <p><span class="cmt_subheading">I.</span> THE OCCASION OF THIS PRAYER. <p><span class="Text_Heading">1.</span> <span class="accented">Jezebel had threatened his life</span>. <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> Ahab had reported to his queen what Elijah had done at Carmel, and in particular recounted how he had slain all the prophets. In this statement we notice two capital faults. He did not recount what <span class="accented">Jehovah</span> had done; he did not properly distinguish the "prophets" slain as idolatrous and false. The gospel may be variously preached. <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> Instead of reflecting and repenting, Jezebel was filled with resentment, and resolved upon the destruction of Elijah. Miracles will not do more than reason with a corrupt and prejudiced heart. (See <a href="/luke/16-31.htm">Luke 16:31</a>; <a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/john/12-10.htm">John 12:10, 11</a>.) <p><span class="note_emph">(3)</span> She accordingly sent messengers to Elijah with an oath, declaring that within twenty-four hours she would revenge upon his life the slaughter of her priests. Wickedness is not always politic: by giving him this notice she gave him an opportunity to escape. <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> <span class="accented">To save his life hefted</span>. <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> Was this wrong? Some have blamed him for it because he did not first ascertain the will of God. Had he no voice of God in the instinct of self preservation? Had he no voice of God in the providence which apprised him of his peril? Would he not have tempted the Lord his God to have waited for another voice? Had he remained and forfeited his life, would he not have been to blame? God gives us our reason, and if we follow its light, together with that of an upright conscience, we shall do well. <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> But who can say that Elijah had no direction from the word of the Lord? Certainly there was a plan for his journey recognized by the angel with which he was familiar (see ver. 7). The distance from Beer-sheba to Horeb was about 150 miles. <p><span class="note_emph">(3)</span> In his flight he came first to Beer-sheba, where he was under the pro. tection of Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, who feared the Lord. There he left his servant in safety, and might have abode himself in safety had he not acted under the promptings of inspiration to proceed alone into the wilderness. <p><span class="Text_Heading">3.</span> <span class="accented">Alone with God he asks to die</span>. <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> The Hebrew phrase is, "He requested <span class="accented">for</span> <span class="accented">his life</span> that he might die." There is life in death to the righteous. <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> "It is enough." This is the language of disappointment. He looked for better fruit of his ministry than he found. He thought, surely this demonstration on Carmel will extinguish idolatry; but he finds Jezebel swearing against his life, and apparently in a position to carry out her purpose. "Now, O Lord, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers." I am no more useful here than they have been who are gone hence. Let me join them. <p><span class="cmt_subheading">II.</span> THE ANSWERS GIVEN TO IT. <p><span class="Text_Heading">1.</span> <span class="accented">They come in the form of physical refreshment</span>. <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> Elijah's prayer was evidently uttered under the influence of physical exhaustion and discomfort. His sitting under the "juniper" <span class="accented">is</span> mentioned, not to suggest that he derived comfort from an ample shade, but rather to show how little shelter he could find. The word (<span class="hebrew">רתם</span>) is construed as in the text by the Hebrews, by Jerome, and the Vulgate; yet it is rather the <span class="accented">genista</span> (<span class="accented">broom</span>), <span class="accented">a shrub</span> with yellow flowers which grows in the desert, and which has its name (from <span class="hebrew">רתם</span> <span class="accented">to bind</span>) from the <span class="accented">toughness</span> or <span class="accented">tenacity</span> of its twigs, which were used for <span class="accented">withes</span>. <span class="accented">N</span>ot only was he wayworn with his journey and exposure to the sun, but faint also for want of food and drink. <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> The answer came to his prayer, therefore, in the blessing of refreshing sleep. Out of this also he was seasonably aroused by an Angel to find a cake on the coals (as bread is sometimes baked in the East) and a cruse of water at his bolster. God knows our frame, pities us, and makes due allowance for our frailties. When we find our spirits in a morbid state let us look to our health. Hygiene may come, even to the soul, as an angel of God. <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> They <span class="accented">came to him in spiritual blessing</span>. <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> The refreshment which Elijah received was <span class="accented">supernatural in</span> its <span class="accented">source</span>. The bread and water came to him with the word and touch of the Angel-Jehovah (<span class="hebrew">מלא יהוה</span>). This was no common angel, but one of the Persons of the Godhead. <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> It was <span class="accented">supernatural</span> also in its <span class="accented">effects</span> (ver. 8). In these he is brought intimately into association with Moses and Jesus. (Compare <a href="/exodus/34-28.htm">Exodus 34:28</a>; <a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/deuteronomy/9-9.htm">Deuteronomy 9:9, 18</a>; <a href="/matthew/4-2.htm">Matthew 4:2</a>.) It is also noteworthy how these three appear in glory together on the holy mount. (See <a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/luke/9-30.htm">Luke 9:30, 31</a>.) The spiritual life we derive from God's word is set forth in the mystery of the manna which for <span class="accented">forty</span> years nourished the people of God in this wilderness. It is also set forth in that new life of Jesus in which after His resurrection He appeared to His disciples during <span class="accented">forty</span> days. (See <a href="/romans/6-11.htm">Romans 6:11</a>; <a href="/galatians/2-20.htm">Galatians 2:20</a>.) - J.A.M. <p> </div> <div class="comm"><div class="ttl"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/auth/waite/the_desponding_prophet.htm">The Desponding Prophet </a></div><div class="vrs"><a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/1_kings/19-1.htm">1 Kings 19:1-18</a></div><div class="auth"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/authors/waite.htm">J. Waite </a></div>A marvellous change has come over Elijah. It is difficult to imagine a more complete contrast than is presented by his moral attitude in this and the previous chapters. He who just before has so boldly confronted the proud king, and defied the priests of Baal, standing without fear before his flaming altar, and sternly carrying out the judgment of God on the corrupters of His people, is now filled with dismay, and flies from the post of duty and of danger. So unstable are the grandest forms of human virtue, and so weak are the noblest of men when God is pleased for a while to leave them to themselves. Consider <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> The prophet's state of mind. <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> The way in which God deals with him. <p><span class="cmt_subheading">I.</span> THE PROPHET'S STATE OF MIND. It is one of deep despondency. Fear of the queen's revenge is not enough of itself to explain it. There is disappointment at the apparent result of the events of the previous day, weariness of life, disgust at the condition of the land, a sense of powerlessness before the difficulties of his position, perhaps doubt as to the wisdom of what he has done. He speaks and acts as a dispirited, broken-hearted man. Note some of the manifest causes of this despondency. We can never thoroughly understand the feelings of a man unless we take into account the sources and occasions of them, and try to put ourselves in his place. <p><span class="Text_Heading">1.</span> <span class="accented">Physical exhaustion</span>. His bodily frame was worn and weary. animal spirits had had a great strain upon them, and now suffered a corresponding relapse. Unwonted exertion of strength was followed by unwonted weakness. The relation that exists between the state of the body and the state of the mind is very mysterious, but very real. The elation or depression of our religious feeling depends far more on mere physical conditions than we often imagine. A diseased body will often cause a dark cloud to come over the spirit's firmament; much that is morbid in the religious thoughts and emotions of good men needs to be dealt with by the physician of the body rather than of the soul. <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> <span class="accented">Loneliness</span>. He was without the companionship and sympathy of those who would share his labours and perils. "I, even I only, am left, and they seek my life to destroy it." It is a single-handed conflict in which he is involved. There are none to stand by him, none whom he can trust. Such isolation is the severest possible test of fidelity, As the rock never appears more majestic than when seen standing alone, with the ocean billows rolling round it, so with one who is "faithful found among the faithless," cut off from all natural and human supports, isolated in a surrounding sea of indifference or iniquity. (Think of Paul: "At my first answer no man stood with me, but all forsook me," <a href="/2_timothy/4-16.htm">2 Timothy 4:16</a>; above all <span class="accented">the Christ</span>. "I have trodden the winepress alone, and of the people there was none with me," <a href="/isaiah/63-3.htm">Isaiah 63:3</a>.) Supernatural help will often come for special emergencies, and will make the soul sublimely independent of external aid; but it is hard to carry on a long, patient conflict with difficulties <span class="accented">alone</span>. <p><span class="Text_Heading">3.</span> <span class="accented">Want of success</span>. His ministry, seems all in vain. His words are but as the dreams of the false prophets. The solemn testimony given on Carmel has passed away without effecting any real change in the condition of things. The fire that consumed his sacrifice has gone out. Righteous vengeance has been inflicted on the idolatrous prophets, and the Kishon has swept away their blood. The drought has done its work, and the rain has returned upon the land. And now all seems to be going on just as it was before. Ahab and Jezebel are as hostile and treacherous and full of cruel hate as ever; and as for the people, there is no kind of security for their constancy to their recent vows. Surely he is living his sad life in vain! That dreariest of all thoughts to a man of high and holy purpose - that his labour is utterly fruitless - sweeps like a withering wind through his soul, and he wishes he were dead. "O Lord, take away my life, for I am no better than my fathers." <p><span class="Text_Heading">4.</span> <span class="accented">The sense of having forsaken the post of responsibility</span>. It may have been a natural impulse that moved him to "fly for his life," but no wonder his despondency deepened as he lost himself in the solitudes of the wilderness. His was the inward disquietude which will always be the penalty of a man's having weakly or wilfully deserted the path of duty. When good men place themselves in a false position, they must expect the shadow of some morbid condition of feeling to fall upon their spirits. When the hands of those who ought to be busy about some work for God are idle, their hearts are left a prey to all sorts of evil influences. Religious activity is one of the main secrets of religious health. What is our grand business in this world but just to battle against the weaknesses of our own nature, and the force of adverse circumstances? And when the difficulties of our position gather thickest about us, then is the time to cast ourselves most fearlessly on the Divine power that will enable us to overcome them and listen to the voice that says, "Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee the crown of life." <p><span class="cmt_subheading">II.</span> GOD'S WAY OF DEALING WITH HIM. Taking a general view of the Divine method, we see that each successive step is wisely adapted to the prophet's need. <p><span class="Text_Heading">1.</span> <span class="accented">Physical refreshment</span>. An angel is sent with food for the nourishment of his exhausted frame; not to talk with him, not by remonstrance or persuasion to chase away his morbid feelings, but to feed him. The disease of the mind is to be cured by first removing the weakness of the body, which was one of its causes. It is a suggestive incident. Our physical nature is as truly an object of Divine thought and care as the spiritual. God will not fail to supply the meaner wants of His children. The beneficent ministries of His providence are ever auxiliary to the higher purposes of His grace. <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> <span class="accented">A significant revelation of the Divine presence and power</span>. The remarkable phenomena described in the eleventh and twelfth verses on doubt had a symbolic meaning. The wind, the earthquake, and the fire were emblems of the conspicuous and extraordinary manner in which Elijah probably expected the work of God to be carried on. The "still small voice" that followed taught him that God's chosen way of working was rather one that is calm and noiseless. The stirring events that had recently taken place were only preparatory to the silent but mightier energy of His spirit working through the voice of the prophet. We are apt to overestimate the power of that which "cometh with observation." Why should the wind, and the fire, and the earthquake be God's only instruments? Is He not equally in the gently dawning light, the soft-whispering breeze, the silent, secret forces of nature? Your path of usefulness may be obscure, your influence unobserved, its issues slowly developed. But be not disheartened. Remember the "still small voice" breathing in the ear of the prophet at the mouth of the cave when the tumult was over and learn that it is by a feeble instrument and a quiet, patient process that God will accomplish His grandest work in the moral sphere. This is the method of the world's Redeemer. "He shall not cry nor lift up, nor cause his voice to be heard in the streets, etc. (<a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/isaiah/42-2.htm">Isaiah 42:2, 8, 4</a>). <p><span class="Text_Heading">3.</span> <span class="accented">Words of rebuke</span> and encouragement. "What doest thou here, Elijah?" "Go, return on thy way." "Yet have I left me seven thousand in Israel," etc. Thus does God reprove him for the faithlessness that lay at the root of his despondency. If the veil that hid the secret life of Israel could at that hour have been uplifted, he would have seen how little real reason there was for it. Seven thousand living witnesses might have come forth from their obscurity to show that his work was not in vain. We little know what God is doing beneath the surface, at the secret heart of society, when appearances seem most unfavourable. Let us be true to ourselves and to Him, doing faithfully the work He has given us to do in storm or in calm, and leave it to Him to bring about the glorious issue. "Be ye therefore steadfast, immovable," etc. (<a href="/1_corinthians/15-58.htm">1 Corinthians 15:58</a>). - W. <p> </div> <div class="comm"><div class="ttl"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/auth/urquhart/the_prophet's_despair.htm">The Prophet's Despair </a></div><div class="vrs"><a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/1_kings/19-1.htm">1 Kings 19:1-8</a></div><div class="auth"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/authors/urquhart.htm">J. Urquhart </a></div><p><span class="cmt_subheading">I.</span> ELIJAH'S WEAKNESS. <p><span class="Text_Heading">1.</span> <span class="accented">His disappointment</span>. With the hand of the Lord upon him he had come to Jezreel (<a href="/1_kings/18-46.htm">1 Kings 18:46</a>). Was it not because a further success for God awaited him there? Could Carmel's wonders and the mercy of God in the rain now flooding the earth be resisted? Jezebel's message, displaying only determined and increased hostility, rudely dispels the dream. The blighting of the long-expected fruit of prayer and waiting and mightiest effort is worse to bear than all the hardships which went before. Other trials may depress, but under this the spirit is utterly broken. <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> <span class="accented">His flight</span>. He shows no trust in Him who was mightier than Jezebel tie flees to the south of Judah. Even there it does not seem to him that he is in safety, and he goes a day's journey into the wilderness; but neither at Jezreel nor at Beer-sheba does he seek direction from the Lord. The overthrow of hope is also the overthrow of faith. Ceasing to hope in God we cease to wait on God. <p><span class="Text_Heading">3.</span> <span class="accented">His prayer</span>. <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> Its inconsistency. He had fled for his life, and now he prays God that he may die. We are not fittest for heaven when we are most tired of earth. We must "enter his gates" - the gates of the city that hath foundations - "with praise," not with complaints and accusations. <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> Its unbelief. God's work is abandoned as impossible; nothing remains for Him but to take back the life of His defeated servant! Many a noble heart besides has lifted up the same cry of despair. The noblest of mankind are nothing when once the fire of trust is quenched in the soul. "The just shall live by faith;" when faith dies, every good and noble thing dies with it. <p><span class="cmt_subheading">II.</span> HOW GOD BINDS UP THE BROKEN HEARTED. <p><span class="Text_Heading">1.</span> <span class="accented">He gives rest</span>. "He lay and slept." Even in the desert to which we flee unbidden, God gives shelter and rest. "For so he giveth his beloved sleep." <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> <span class="accented">He imparts strength for the onward way to where light will break upon the darkness and a new mission will be given</span>. Elijah is fed once and again with angel food, and in the strength of it goes "forty days and forty nights unto Horeb, the mount of God." We are revived with tender heavenly ministrations: we see His goodness in the land of the living, and pass onward to the place where we shall meet with Him and hear His voice. - J.U <p> </div> <div class="comm"><div class="ttl"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/auth/rowland/the_causes_of_despondency.htm">The Causes Of Despondency </a></div><div class="vrs"><a href="/1_kings/19-4.htm">1 Kings 19:4</a></div><div class="auth"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/authors/rowland.htm">A. Rowland </a></div>Human character is more complex than many imagine. Its elements are so diverse, and sometimes so contradictory, that only God can fairly judge it. The biographies of Scripture and the subtleties of our own hearts combine to enforce the lesson, "Judge not, that ye be not judged." We should have placed in the foremost rank the disciple who first acknowledged the divinity of our Lord, and we should have cast him out of the Church who denied his Lord with oaths and curses; yet both the one and the other were the outcome of the same character. Never was contradiction more complete than in Elijah. One day he leads a whole nation in penitence, the next he flees to save his life, as one who has thrown up all hope of Jehovah's cause. None but the pitiful and patient Father-God would have judged him aright; nor was Elijah the last to say, "Thy gentleness hath made me great." We are reminded that it is difficult to judge ourselves as well as others. On Carmel, Elijah might have thought himself invincible, and in Horeb an unmitigated coward, but he was neither. Varieties of mood must not he too much considered. They do not afford a fair index to character. We are not infidels because we pass through a phase of doubt, we are not reprobates because we are deeply conscious of sin, nor are we Christians because we enjoy a religious service. A sad and frequent experience of religious life, that of <span class="accented">despondency</span>, is set before us here, and we will seek to discover its causes. <p><span class="cmt_subheading">I.</span> REACTION AFTER EXCITEMENT. Great natures are peculiarly subject to this. The impulse which impels to a noble act has a rebound proportioned to its intensity. Peter and John the Baptist stand beside Elijah as exemplars of this fact. From it arises the special peril of revivalistic services. Excitement has its place and power in the advance of Christ's kingdom, but we must not substitute spasmodic feeling for steady growth. <p><span class="cmt_subheading">II.</span> EXHAUSTION OF PHYSICAL AND NERVOUS ENERGY. Even the gigantic strength of Elijah underwent a terrible strain on Carmel Anxiety, enthusiasm, burning zeal, exultation combined to agitate him, and these were doubtless preceded by many days and nights of passionate, agonizing prayer. God's provision for the prophet - the sleep that came over him, as over a tired child, the food prepared by angel hands - prove that this was recognized. Show the mutual dependence of body and mind. Neither the equable temperament of some Christians nor the excitability of others is due always to the presence or absence of Divine grace. Good food, fresh air, and change of scene would do more than religious exercises to restore tone to some who are despondent. The neglect of sanitary laws is a sin. There was far-reaching wisdom in Paul's declaration, "I keep the body under." <p><span class="cmt_subheading">III.</span> ABSENCE OF SYMPATHY. "I am left <span class="accented">alone</span>." "I <span class="accented">only</span> am left." Such was the burden of Elijah's cry. This is a special source of despondency to missionaries surrounded by the heathen. It affects also multitudes who are not so literally alone. They may have many Christians around them, but in their special work, in their peculiar difficulty, they can find none to help, or even to understand them. "Alone in a crowd" is a true description of many a disciple of Christ, who is thinking his own thoughts and fighting his own foes. Show from this the wisdom of the provision God has made in Church fellowship. Point out the causes which tend to make such communion unreal or unhelpful. Urge the cultivation of sympathy with young disciples, with obscure workers, etc. <p><span class="cmt_subheading">IV.</span> INFLUENCE OF DOUBT. The confidence of the prophet on Carmel had broken down. Jezebel had not been cowed by the sudden revulsion of popular feeling. She doubted its permanence, and at all events resolved that she would not lose heart, so Ahab and his courtiers were reassured when she swore to have revenge on Elijah. The prophet thought now that he had been too sanguine - that the one chance had come and gone without effect. Doubt paralyzed him. Doubt of God's willingness to forgive plunges the penitent into despondency. He would scarcely venture secretly into a crowd to touch the hem of Christ's garment. Doubt of God's readiness to hear and answer prayer keeps the Christian from the light of His countenance, etc. <p><span class="cmt_subheading">V.</span> INVISIBILITY OF ANTAGONISTS. Elijah could face his visible foes on Carmel without quailing - indeed, he dared to taunt them at the risk of being torn to pieces - but against this vague feeling of despair he could not hold his own. Moral battles are the hardest to fight. He who can grapple with what is tangible sometimes fails when called on to "wrestle not with flesh and blood, but with principalities, and powers, and the rulers of the darkness of this world." Some would rather run the risk of being condemned hereafter, as wicked and slothful servants, than have the certainty of being sneered at now as those who are "righteous overmuch." <p><span class="cmt_subheading">VI.</span> ENFORCED INACTIVITY. Elijah's opportunity for vigorous action seemed over. He was cast in upon his own thoughts. Few could bear it less patiently than he. The man who can dare and do anything finds it specially hard to wait and to suffer. Similar temptation to despondency comes to those who are laid aside by illness, or removed from a happy sphere of service. But that is the time to wait on the Lord, and so "renew our strength." <p><span class="Emphasized">CONCLUSION.</span> <span class="accented">In all hours of despondency remember that He who knew the agony of Gethsemane and Calvary pities us, and feels for us</span>. "We have not a High Priest who cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities," etc. - A.R. <p> </div> <div class="comm"><div class="ttl"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/auth/macdonald/elijah_at_horeb.htm">Elijah At Horeb </a></div><div class="vrs"><a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/1_kings/19-9.htm">1 Kings 19:9-18</a></div><div class="auth"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/authors/macdonald.htm">J.A. Macdonald </a></div>Elijah went in the strength of the refreshment he had received from the Angel-Jehovah a forty days' journey to Horeb. He was now on holy ground. It was the "mount of God" on which Moses had seen the Angel-Jehovah in the bush, and was within sight of Sinai, memorable for the giving of the law. On Horeb he lodges in a cave, perhaps the very recess from which Moses witnessed the Shechinah (see <a href="/exodus/32-22.htm">Exodus 32:22</a>), and here becomes the subject of Divine communications and revelations. Consider now - <p><span class="cmt_subheading">I.</span> HIS INTERCESSION AGAINST ISRAEL. <p><span class="Text_Heading">1.</span> <span class="accented">Observe the occasion</span>. <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> The question came to him by the word of the Lord, "What doest thou here, Elijah?" In answer to this he urged what Paul calls his "intercession against Israel" (<a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/romans/11-2.htm">Romans 11:2, 8</a>). Wherever we are it behoves us to ask ourselves what business we have here. Everywhere our first business is to glorify God. <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> This question is thought to suggest that Elijah might have been more profitably employed elsewhere. But did he not come here after receiving supernatural strength from God Himself expressly for this journey 2 (See vers. 7, 8.) <p><span class="note_emph">(3)</span> Rather must we not look upon his journey in the light of a parable, showing how God abandons those who refuse to be reformed? (Compare <a href="/jeremiah/9-2.htm">Jeremiah 9:2</a>.) In this view we can see how Elijah acted in "faith" in this journey; for Paul seems to allude to him in <a href="/hebrews/11-38.htm">Hebrews 11:38</a>. <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> <span class="accented">The matter of the accusation</span>. <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> The view now given harmonizes with this, the substance of which is the prophet's great jealousy for the Lord God of hosts, whose honour had been outraged by the apostasy of the children of Israel. Here is no confession of that unworthy timidity with which Elijah has been, we think, too hastily charged. Nor had he any rebuke from God for such supposed dastardliness, which doubtless he would have received had he deserved it. He is here because he cannot abide in the land of Israel, where Jehovah was commonly insulted. <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> He recounts the particulars of his grief. "For the children of Israel have forsaken flay covenant" - have substituted false Elohim for Thee; "thrown down thine altars" - attempted to abolish Thy worship; "slain thy prophets with the sword" - to provide against any revival of the pure religion of their fathers; "and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life to take it away." Of what use, then, could he be to such a people? (See <a href="/hosea/4-17.htm">Hosea 4:17</a>.) <p><span class="note_emph">(3)</span> The motive of this intercession to God against Israel is not personal revenge, but zeal for Jehovah. And though we are bound, as Christians, to love our enemies, that does not say that we are to love the enemies of God. There is a spurious charity in high favour which the Scriptures do not sanction. (See <a href="/2_chronicles/19-2.htm">2 Chronicles 19:2</a>; <a href="/psalms/119-19.htm">Psalm 119:19</a>; <a href="/psalms/139-21.htm">Psalm 139:21</a>; <a href="/luke/14-26.htm">Luke 14:26</a>.) Beware of that charity which has complicity with sin. <p><span class="note_emph">(4)</span> The repetition of the answer when a second time the question was put evinces the deep sincerity of the prophet's soul. <p><span class="cmt_subheading">II.</span> THE ANSWER OF GOD UNTO HIM. I. <span class="accented">This was first given in symbol</span>. <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> To witness the vision he was caused to stand on the mount before the Lord. Probably this was the place where Moses stood on a similar occasion (see <a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/exodus/19-9.htm">Exodus 19:9, 16</a>). We should have the Rock of Ages for our foundation when we witness visions of God. All shall witness them in the judgment of the great day. <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> Terrible signs immediately followed upon the passing by of Jehovah. <p><span class="note_emph">(a)</span> First, "a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord." Here was a sign of wrath upon the rulers and people, through <span class="accented">invasion</span>. (Compare Jet 4:11-15; <a href="/ezekiel/6-2.htm">Ezekiel 6:2</a>; <a href="/amos/4-1.htm">Amos 4:1</a>). <p><span class="note_emph">(b)</span> "And after the wind an earthquake." This is a sign of <span class="accented">revolution</span>, whether in things civil, ecclesiastical, or both. (Compare, <a href="/psalms/68-8.htm">Psalm 68:8</a>; <a href="/revelation/6-12.htm">Revelation 6:12</a>; <a href="/revelation/16-18.htm">Revelation 16:18</a>). <p><span class="note_emph">(c)</span> "And after the earthquake a fire. This is the symbol of <span class="accented">judgments</span> more immediately from <span class="accented">God</span> (see <a href="/deuteronomy/4-24.htm">Deuteronomy 4:24</a>; <a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/psalms/18-12.htm">Psalm 18:12-14</a>; <a href="/psalms/66-12.htm">Psalm 66:12</a>; <a href="/jeremiah/48-45.htm">Jeremiah 48:45</a>). <p><span class="note_emph">(3)</span> But the Lord was in none of these. Judgments are a strange work to Him. They are necessary to the order of His government, but not congenial to His nature. "He <span class="accented">delighteth</span> in mercy." So the Lord was in the "still small voice" which followed. The gentle voice of the gospel follows the law which came with the uproar of the elements, and <span class="accented">God is in it</span>. So Elijah wrapped his face in his mantle. (Compare <a href="/exodus/3-6.htm">Exodus 3:6</a>; <a href="/isaiah/6-2.htm">Isaiah 6:2</a>.) <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> <span class="accented">It was afterwards expounded in words</span>. <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> Elijah, the intercessor against Israel, and therefore the impersonation of anger against sin, was to return to Israel by way of Damascus, where he was to "anoint Hazael to be king over Syria." In Hazael now we must look for the "strong wind" that was to come up and make havoc upon the mountains and rocks of Israel. (Compare <a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/2_kings/8-12.htm">2 Kings 8:12, 13</a>; <a href="/2_kings/10-32.htm">2 Kings 10:32</a>, 38; 13:3.) <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> "Jehu the son of Nimshi" was Elijah to "anoint to be king over Israel." Here was the instrument of the "earthquake" of revolution. (See <a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/2_kings/9-1.htm">2 Kings 9:1-3</a>.) Not only did Jehu bring a signal destruction upon the whole house of Ahab; he brought down judgment also upon the worshippers of Baal (<a href="/2_kings/10-28.htm">2 Kings 10:28</a>). <p><span class="note_emph">(3)</span> "Elisha the son of Shaphat" was this impersonation of righteous anger to "anoint to be prophet" in his room. Here is God's instrument of "fire." His words are to be swords of flame. So "it shall come to pass that him that escapeth from the sword of Hazael shall Jehu slay; and him that escapeth from the sword of Jehu shall Elisha slay." No sinner can escape the fire of God's word. <p><span class="note_emph">(4)</span> But the "still small voice" of the gospel of mercy has its triumphs. "Yet I have left me seven thousand in Israel," etc. God has His faithful "hidden ones" (<a href="/psalms/83-3.htm">Psalm 83:3</a>). No wonder Elijah should cover his face with reverent gratitude at the discovery of that sealed company in whose midst was JEHOVAH-SHAMMAH! (<a href="/ezekiel/48-35.htm">Ezekiel 48:35</a>; <a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/revelation/7-13.htm">Revelation 7:13-17</a>.) - J.A.M. <p> </div> <div class="comm"><div class="ttl"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/auth/rowland/a_question_from_god_for_the_consideration_of_man.htm">A Question From God For The Consideration Of Man </a></div><div class="vrs"><a href="/1_kings/19-9.htm">1 Kings 19:9</a></div><div class="auth"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/authors/rowland.htm">A. Rowland </a></div>Elijah was fleeing from peril and from work, but he could not flee from God. The Father seeth in secret. No man is out of His sight, no feeling eludes His vigilance (<a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/psalms/139.htm">Psalm 139</a>.) Christ knew the plans of His foes (<a href="/matthew/12-25.htm">Matthew 12:25</a>). He understood the unexpressed wants of the sinful (<a href="/matthew/9-2.htm">Matthew 9:2</a>). He heard the secret conversations of His followers (<a href="/mark/9-33.htm">Mark 9:33</a>), and lovingly answered their unspoken questions (<a href="/john/16-19.htm">John 16:19</a>). In this story God's pity is as conspicuous as His knowledge. Refreshed by the provision given by unseen hands, Elijah went to Horeb, a place sacred in its associations and lonely in its grandeur. There, hidden in a cave from the wrath of Jezebel, the voice of Jehovah reached him, saying, "What doest thou here, Elijah?" <p><span class="cmt_subheading">I.</span> THE QUESTION CAME TO A PROPHET IN HIS HOUR OF DESPAIR. This Divine interposition on his behalf teaches us the means God uses to bring us out from our despondency. The prophet was delivered from his depression by learning the following lessons: <p><span class="Text_Heading">1.</span> <span class="accented">That God was near</span>. Whatever the sin that needs pardon, the weakness that wants conquering, the doubt that wants unravelling, there is no fear of the issue if we can consciously bring it to God. Elijah was saved because he dared tell Jehovah all that was in his heart. Moses sometimes was compelled to leave his work to the elders, that he might speak to God face to face. The disciples "went and told Jesus" their grief and their triumph. Aye, and the Master Himself nerved Himself for work and for suffering by prayer - on the mountain or in the garden., Satan says, Give up prayer till your difficulties are removed. Christ says, Come unto me, all ye that labour, and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> <span class="accented">That success was assured</span>. Elijah thought he stood alone. but the Lord said, "Yet I have left me seven thousand in Israel," etc. Success was not where the prophet had looked for it. The crowds on Carmel had not been radically changed, but the secret worshippers of God had been strengthened by his heroism. So in the Lord's ministry, the nucleus of the Church was not found in the applauding multitudes on Olivet, but in the few faithful ones in the garden of Gethsemane. Our work may be greater than we think. No word or work for Christ fails of its reward. "For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater: so shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it." <p><span class="Text_Heading">3.</span> <span class="accented">That work was waiting</span> (ver. 15). Elijah was not to remain in the cave, any more than the disciples were to dwell on the mount of transfiguration. For his own sake and for the good of others he was to be up and doing. If you would be saved from brooding, despondency, and doubt, throw yourselves into the work of God. Do with all your might what your hands find to do: and your service will restore tone to your mind, and bring hope to your heart, and prepare you to hear the "Well done, good and faithful servant." <p><span class="cmt_subheading">II.</span> THIS QUESTION CAME TO A MAN IN A FALSE POSITION. "What doest thou here, Elijah?" The inquiry should pursue others who have fled in caves in which they would fain hide themselves from responsibility. <p><span class="Text_Heading">1.</span> <span class="accented">It comes to the impenitent, in the cave of concealment</span>. They say, "Doth God know?" He sees the secret sin. He knows the iniquity of that which society applauds, and the day is coming when excuses shall be stripped off, and wickedness discovered Before that terrible day, when "the secrets of all hearts shall be disclosed," come to the feet of a pardoning God. <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> <span class="accented">It comes to the penitent in the cave of despondency</span>. To all such God says, "Come now, and let us reason together." <p><span class="Text_Heading">3.</span> <span class="accented">It comes to the indolent in the cave of sloth</span>. Years of profession unrelieved by a single act of service or sacrifice call for repentance. <p><span class="Text_Heading">4.</span> <span class="accented">It comes to the sorrowful in the cave of murmuring</span> "Lift up the hands which hang down," etc. Suffer your Redeemer to bring you out of the horrible pit, and "put a new song into your mouth, even praise unto our God." <p><span class="Emphasized">CONCLUSION.</span> The Lord speaks to all. "Today if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts." - A.R. <p> </div> <div class="comm"><div class="ttl"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/auth/urquhart/elijah_at_horeb.htm">Elijah At Horeb </a></div><div class="vrs"><a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/1_kings/19-9.htm">1 Kings 19:9-18</a></div><div class="auth"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/authors/urquhart.htm">J. Urquhart </a></div><p><span class="cmt_subheading">I.</span> How GOD DEALS WITH THE DESPAIRING. <p><span class="Text_Heading">1.</span> <span class="accented">Elijah's mistake</span>. Because Jezebel's enmity remained unsubdued the straggle was at once given over as hopeless; "and he came thither unto a cave, and lodged there." The same mistake is made by those who labour on with unexpectant toil, whose wrestling with God is given up, whose feeble thought and listless tones proclaim their hopelessness: by those who have laid down the work to which God called them - preachers in retirement or in other spheres, teachers, etc. - and those who have ceased to strive against their own sin. <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> <span class="accented">God's remedy</span>. <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> The heart is searched. "What doest <span class="accented">thou here</span>, Elijah?" A prophet in the desert? A living man illumined with the light of the knowledge of God, a companion of reeks and stones and solitude; and death and sin crying to be visited with the rebuke of God, and hearts fainting for lack of His light and consolations? Was it for this God endowed and called thee? A word for those who have left the vineyard; for those who have not yet entered; for the worldly and the sinful. To hear this voice is preparation for entering the path of life and of service. Till it be heard there is no possibility of either. <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> Unbelief is unveiled. When God's voice is heard, and the reasons for the wilderness flight are named, it is seen that He has been shut out of sight. He mentions his own zeal, and Israel's sin, but of God there is nothing said. It is unbelief alone which can kill prayer and earnest, hopeful toil. It was only when Peter ceased to gaze on Jesus that the stormy waves engulfed him. If we are in the wilderness, forgetfulness of God has set us there. <p><span class="cmt_subheading">II.</span> THE PATH OF DELIVERANCE FOR THE HOPELESS. <p><span class="Text_Heading">1.</span> <span class="accented">The vision of God</span>. Elijah's thoughts of God's way were corrected. <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> God was not in the whirlwind, or the earthquake, or the fire. What had failed to turn Israel and subdue Jezebel was not what was really God's power unto salvation, but what Elijah erroneously conceived to he this. We despair because certain methods, influences, arguments fail; but they can only fail because God is not <span class="accented">in them</span>. <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> God was in the still small voice that awoke within the heart. The power which now held and searched the prophet's own soul was the manifestation of what was power for the souls of others. <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> <span class="accented">The recognition of ourselves as only part of the manifold agency of God</span>. Other hands as well as his were to carry on the work of judgment and of mercy (vers. 15-17). To feel our brotherhood with the servants of God fills us with joy and power. <p><span class="Text_Heading">3.</span> <span class="accented">The assurance that God never works in vain</span> (ver. 18). The results may be hid from us, but they are known to Him. - J.U. <p> </div> <div class="comm"><div class="ttl"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/auth/rowland/the_still_small_voice.htm">The Still Small Voice </a></div><div class="vrs"><a href="/1_kings/19-12.htm">1 Kings 19:12</a></div><div class="auth"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/authors/rowland.htm">A. Rowland </a></div>Describe the stupendous scenes amidst which Elijah stood. A wind came shrieking up the mountain ravines, unseen yet instinct with secret force; an earthquake made the solid ground heave and reel; fire glared from heaven, like that which had fallen on the sacrifice at Carmel, or on a subsequent occasion consumed the captains and soldiers of Ahaziah. Amidst this war of the elements the prophet was unmoved by fear; indeed, probably a wild exultation filled his heart as he saw this stormy reflection in nature of the conflict within him. (Compare Shakespeare's splendid description of King Lear in the storm.) The uproar in nature was succeeded by a solemn calm; and as Elijah waited for the next marvellous display of Divine power, "a still small voice" broke the silence, and the prophet knew that it was the voice of God. He who till now had been undaunted and unmoved, now reverently covered his face with his mantle, and bowed in humble worship in the felt presence of Him before whom angels veil their faces. This strange and weird experience evidently had reference to the work which Elijah had attempted, and over which he was now so despondent. When he learnt that the Lord was not in the wind, the earthquake, or the fire, he re-fleeted that permanent religious reformation might not result from the material signs of Divine power, displayed in the withholding of the rain, the raising of the dead, or the fall of fire on Carmel, but from the more quiet testimony of his own devout]fie, and from the fidelity of the "seven thousand who had not bowed the knee to Baal." In effect, the message to him and to us was this: "Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord." We are taught, in the first place - <p><span class="cmt_subheading">I.</span> THE SPIRITUAL WEAKNESS OF WHAT SEEMS MIGHTY. "The Lord was not in the wind ..... in the earthquake, .... in the fire." Let us exemplify this truth - <p><span class="Text_Heading">1.</span> <span class="accented">By the experience of Elijah</span>. He had done many mighty works, but the people were startled rather than reformed. No radical and abiding change had been effected. "The wind" may represent the drought, both in its coming and in its ceasing; "the earthquake," the raising of the child from the dead; and "the fire," the answer to prayer on Carmel. It was not these wonders which could change the heart of the people, but "the still small voice" speaking within for God. <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> <span class="accented">My the miracles of judgment</span>. Take the plagues of Egypt as specimens. Marvellous enough they were, but in the result "Pharaoh's heart was hardened." <p><span class="Text_Heading">3.</span> <span class="accented">By the penalties of the law</span>. Show from the history of Israel, and from the comments made on it in the Epistles, the powerlessness of the law to put away sin. The fear of punishment may check the outward manifestation of sin, but in itself does not conquer innate sinfulness. If a child does not love his father, no orders, however stringently enforced, will make him happy. It was not John the Baptist, but Jesus Christ, who was the world's Redeemer, <p><span class="Text_Heading">4.</span> <span class="accented">By the events of Providence</span>. Illness, the dread of death, a startling bereavement, a national calamity, etc., do not convert men, unless through them or after them "the still small voice" is heard. Men may be driven to alarm, to murmuring, to despair, perhaps to suicide; but their hearts are still rebellious under the influence of trouble. It is not the storm, but the voice of Jesus in the storm, saying, "It is I," that brings rest to those who welcome Him. <p><span class="cmt_subheading">II.</span> THE SPIRITUAL STRENGTH OF WHAT SEEMS FEEBLE. The still small vice, which only a listening man could hear, was more Divine and more mighty than all Elijah had witnessed before. There was all the difference between God's <span class="accented">power</span> and God's <span class="accented">presence</span>. "The Lord was not in the fire," but His was the still small voice; concerning which we observe - <p><span class="Text_Heading">1.</span> <span class="accented">It follows on preparation</span>. Elijah had heard so much, had been so startled into keen listening for the wonderful, that he did not fail to hear this. So the miracles which had not converted the people had made them ready for Elisha and the school of the prophets. Similarly John preceded Jesus. It is thus in personal experience. The earthquake did not convert the jailer at Philippi, but it aroused him to ask, "What must I do to be saved?" Trouble does not save a man, but it may make him ready to listen to the words of life. Some must lose all before they find all in God. <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> <span class="accented">It reminds of secret forces</span>. The most mighty are silent in nature and in grace; <span class="accented">e</span>.<span class="accented">g</span>., gravitation is far more tremendous than volcanic agency. <p><span class="Text_Heading">3.</span> <span class="accented">It</span> <span class="accented">typifies the influence of the Holy Spirit</span>. "He shall convince the world of righteousness," etc. How secretly He melts the heart to repentance, faith, and obedience, and changes the whole current of affection and thought. <p><span class="Text_Heading">4.</span> <span class="accented">It whispers of the love of Christ</span>. He forced none into His kingdom, but won all His subjects man by man. Not His reproaches, but His look of love, broke the heart of Peter into penitence, after the denial. Paul's inspiration was found not in applause or success, but in this - that he could ever say, "The love of Christ constraineth me." <p><span class="Emphasized">CONCLUSION.</span> <span class="accented">Wait for no resistless influences</span>, for no startling events; but listen to the "still small voice" which speaks within, testifying of your deep necessity and Christ's glorious redemption. - A.R. <p> </div> <div class="comm"><div class="ttl"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/auth/macdonald/the_call_of_elisha.htm">The Call Of Elisha </a></div><div class="vrs"><a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/1_kings/19-19.htm">1 Kings 19:19-21</a></div><div class="auth"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/authors/macdonald.htm">J.A. Macdonald </a></div>After the visions of Horeb, and in pursuance of the commission there received, Elijah returned from the wilderness and re-entered the land of Israel. Whether he went round by Damascus, and in his course anointed Hazael to be king over Syria, as Samuel had anointed David long before he ascended the throne of Israel, we are not informed. It is not necessary for the fulfilment of his instructions (ver. 15) to suppose that he did so; for prophets are said to do things which they <span class="accented">predict</span>. (See <a href="/jeremiah/1-10.htm">Jeremiah 1:10</a>; <a href="/ezekiel/43-3.htm">Ezekiel 43:3</a>; <a href="/romans/4-17.htm">Romans 4:17</a>.) The reason is that their predictions are sure to be accomplished; and upon the same principle a true faith in the promises of God is said to be the "substance" or subsistence of "things hoped for" (<a href="/hebrews/11-1.htm">Hebrews 11:1</a>). It is certain that <span class="accented">Elisha</span> made provision for the anointing of Jehu; <span class="accented">Elisha</span> also informed Hazael that he should be king over Syria (see <a href="/2_kings/8-13.htm">2 Kings 8:13</a>; <a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/2_kings/9-1.htm">2 Kings 9:1-3</a>). The call of Elisha was by the hand of <span class="accented">Elijah</span>. <p><span class="cmt_subheading">I.</span> THE CALL OF ELISHA WAS FROM GOD. <p><span class="Text_Heading">1.</span> <span class="accented">Elijah threw his mantle over Elisha</span>. <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> The prophet's mantle was the symbol of his office. It seems to have been the skin of an animal, or composed of some hairy material (see <a href="/2_kings/1-8.htm">2 Kings 1:8</a>; <a href="/zechariah/13-5.htm">Zechariah 13:5</a>; <a href="/isaiah/20-2.htm">Isaiah 20:2</a>; <a href="/matthew/3-4.htm">Matthew 3:4</a>). In allusion to this, perhaps, the popes invest their cardinals with the <span class="accented">pallium -</span> a cloak or <span class="accented">pall</span> made of wool. <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> The mantle of Elijah thrown upon Elisha was the sign that he was to "follow him," to be his servant first, and eventually to be his successor. The mantle, accordingly, came fully into the possession of Elisha when his "master" was "taken from his head" (<a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/2_kings/2-3.htm">2 Kings 2:3, 16</a>). <p><span class="note_emph">(3)</span> The "spirit of Elijah" then "came upon Elisha." So essential to a prophet is the Spirit of God that prophets themselves are called "spirits." False prophets also are called "spirits," but for an opposite reason (see <a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/1_kings/22-22.htm">1 Kings 22:22, 23</a>; <a href="/1_corinthians/14-32.htm">1 Corinthians 14:32</a>; <a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/1_john/4-1.htm">1 John 4:1, 2</a>). <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> <span class="accented">Elijah acted under Divine direction</span>. <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> After he had asked for himself that he might die, God expressly commissioned him to anoint "Elisha the son of Shaphat of Abel-Meholah" to be "prophet in his room" (ver. 16). The lame minister is God's gift. <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> God knew the qualities of Elisha. The manner in which he received the call proved him to be a true man. God's order is, first "grace," then "apostleship" (see <a href="/romans/1-5.htm">Romans 1:5</a>). Those persons deceive themselves who, being destitute of godliness, affect apostleship (see <a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/psalms/1.htm">Psalm 1</a>:16). Nor can apostleship abide where grace is forfeited (<a href="/acts/1-25.htm">Acts 1:25</a>). <p><span class="note_emph">(6)</span> Elijah found Elisha, not in the schools of the prophets, but ploughing in the field. The spirit of prophecy will not be tied down to human institutions, however venerable and respectable. <p><span class="cmt_subheading">II.</span> THE RESPONSE OF ELISHA WAS TO GOD <p><span class="Text_Heading">1.</span> <span class="accented">He accordingly renounced the world</span>. <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> He had something to sacrifice. The "twelve yoke of oxen" indicate prosperity. The glimpse we get of his home is sufficient to discover comfort and happiness. Everybody has something to give up for God. <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> At the call of God he gave up all. Instantly he "left the oxen and ran after Elijah." There should be no hesitation in entering upon the service of God. Elisha did not go home to <span class="accented">ask</span> but to take leave of his parents. For the authority of God is above that of parents. His proposal to return to his home was not a pretext for delay, else he would have merited the censure of our Lord (see <a href="/luke/5-29.htm">Luke 5:29</a>; <a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/luke/9-61.htm">Luke 9:61, 62</a>) The completeness of his renunciation of the world was expressed in his sacrificing the oxen together with the gear. Ministers, in particular, should be free from the entanglements of this life (see <a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/matthew/10-9.htm">Matthew 10:9, 10</a>; <a href="/1_corinthians/9-14.htm">1 Corinthians 9:14</a>; <a href="/2_timothy/2-4.htm">2 Timothy 2:4</a>). <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> <span class="accented">He followed Elijah</span>. <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> He had something to encounter. The life of a prophet was not without its privations and discomforts. And in following Elijah, whose life was threatened with an oath by Jezebel, he would expose himself to her malignity. The offence of the cross has not ceased. <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> He encountered all cheerfully. Elijah responded to his request to let him kiss his father and mother before following him, saying, "Go, return; for what have I done to thee?" This answer was intended to throw upon Elisha the consideration of all that was involved in his call, so that his choice might be intelligent and free. He was not long in counting the cost. God had predisposed his heart (see <a href="/psalms/110-3.htm">Psalm 110:3</a>). Soon we find him pouring water upon the hands of Elijah - lovingly serving the servant of his Lord (<a href="/2_kings/3-11.htm">2 Kings 3:11</a>). Observe: <p><span class="Text_Heading">1.</span> Elisha, though evidently a great man at Abel-Meholah, could handle the plough. There is no disgrace in honest labour. It is even honourable. <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> While in pursuit of his business he was called of God. Business will not be honest if it prevent us from hearing God's voice. <p><span class="Text_Heading">3.</span> He returned to kiss his father and mother and make a farewell feast with his household before following Elijah. Natural affection and social endearments, within proper limits, are respected by religion. <p><span class="Text_Heading">4.</span> Elisha's parents do not seem to have hindered him. Those parents incur fearful responsibilities who, under worldly influences, hinder their sons from responding to a call of God to enter His ministry. - J.A.M. <p> </div> <div class="comm"><div class="ttl"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/auth/waite/the_call_of_elisha.htm">The Call Of Elisha </a></div><div class="vrs"><a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/1_kings/19-19.htm">1 Kings 19:19-21</a></div><div class="auth"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/authors/waite.htm">J. Waite </a></div>It was by an express Divine command that Elijah summoned Elisha to the prophetic office (ver. 16). And yet we may discern a purely human element in this. He did it by the impulse of natural feeling. Stern, rugged, self reliant as he was, he needed sympathy and companionship. He yearned for the society of a kindred spirit. He could not bear to live alone. Whether he had any previous personal knowledge of Elisha we know not; but it is certain that, totally different as the two men were, he found in him a faithful friend and servant. And scanty as the materials of the narrative may be, there is enough to show how deep and tender an affection existed between them. Note in reference to this call - <p><span class="cmt_subheading">I.</span> THE SOVEREIGNTY OF THE DIVINE CHOICE. No indication is given as to why Elisha particularly should have been called to this office. So it has generally been in the case of those who, in the olden times, were raised up to occupy distinguished positions in the development of the Divine plan. (Abraham, Moses, Saul, David, etc.) So was it in Christ's choice of the inner circle of His disciples; as when to the sons of Zebedee mending their nets, and to Matthew at the receipt of custom, He said, "Follow me." But the elections of God are never arbitrary and capricious. He chooses whom He will to be the instruments of His purpose, "taking one of a city and two of a family" as it pleases Him (<a href="/jeremiah/3-14.htm">Jeremiah 3:14</a>). But there is always some deep and sufficient reason for this, though we may not be able to trace it. Every man who has done any great work for God in the world has been more or less deeply impressed with this sense of a special Divine call and commission. And it has given a dignity to his bearing and strength and courage to his spirit that nothing else could give. Every true Christian finds highest inspiration in the thought that God has singled him out from the crowd and summoned him to the service of a consecrated life. "Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you," etc. (<a href="/john/15-16.htm">John 15:16</a>). <p><span class="cmt_subheading">II.</span> THE SACRED PERSONAL RELATION IT ESTABLISHED BETWEEN THE PROPHET AND HIS SERVANT. Elijah's throwing his "mantle" upon him as he passed by was a symbolic act indicative of this. It was the sign of their common prophetic vocation, the seal and bond of the new relation existing between them. It betokened <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> some kind of adoption to sonship. "My Father, my Father" (<a href="/2_kings/2-12.htm">2 Kings 2:12</a>). <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> A transference of the responsibility of the prophetic work. <p><span class="note_emph">(3)</span> The impartation of the same spirit, even the "double portion" of the firstborn (<a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/2_kings/3-9.htm">2 Kings 3:9, 10</a>). We see here something dimly typical of the relation Christ sustained towards His chosen apostles. "As thou hast sent me into the world, even so also have I sent them," etc. (<a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/john/17-18.htm">John 17:18, 19</a>). Some such relation subsisted between Paul and his "dearly beloved son" Timothy. "As a son with the father he hath served with me in the gospel" (<a href="/philippians/2-22.htm">Philippians 2:22</a>). "Wherefore I put thee in remembrance," etc. "Hold fast the form of sound words," etc. (<a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/2_timothy/1-6.htm">2 Timothy 1:6, 13</a>). The thought becomes proverbial when we speak of the "mantle" of a great leader falling upon his successors. One of the chief ends of a noble life is answered when others take up the work that it left unfinished, and catch the spirit of its example; nothing more sacred than the spiritual bond thus established. <p><span class="cmt_subheading">III.</span> THE COMPLETENESS OF ELISHA'S SELF SURRENDER. Natural feeling for a moment throws an obstacle in the way. "Let me, I pray thee, kiss my father and my mother." It was a hard task for him at once to loosen himself from family ties, and relinquish the comforts of what was probably a prosperous pastoral life, and cast in his lot with the wandering prophet. Elijah's answer seems to disown the exercise of any undue constraint upon him, and simply leaves him free to choose. But the loyalty of his spirit to the Divine authority soon settles the alternative, and aider an act expressive of his entire abandonment of the associations of his former life, "he arose and went after Elijah and ministered unto him." We are reminded of the way in which Christ called on men to surrender their all and follow Him (<a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/luke/9-57.htm">Luke 9:57-62</a>). Fidelity to Him demands complete self-sacrifice. The strongest fascinations, and even the dearest ties of earth, will give way to the realized sovereignty of His claims. "He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me" (<a href="/matthew/10-37.htm">Matthew 10:37</a>). - W. <p> </div> <div class="comm"><div class="ttl"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/auth/urquhart/the_prophet's_call.htm">The Prophet's Call </a></div><div class="vrs"><a href="//niv.scripturetext.com/1_kings/19-19.htm">1 Kings 19:19-21</a></div><div class="auth"><a href="//ibiblestudies.com/authors/urquhart.htm">J. Urquhart </a></div><p><span class="cmt_subheading">I.</span> THE CALL TO SERVICE. <p><span class="Text_Heading">1.</span> <span class="accented">Where it found him</span> - in the field engaged in laborious, careful toil. The Master chooses servants for higher trusts who have been faithful in lower. <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> <span class="accented">How it came</span>. The mantle cast upon him was a sign of adoption. It was a call to share the prophet's home and love. Elijah was to find a son in the newly-called servant of God, and Elisha a father in the great prophet of Israel. We pass into God's service through union with His people. <p><span class="cmt_subheading">II.</span> INDECISION REBUKED (ver. 20). <p><span class="Text_Heading">1.</span> The request. He "ran after Elijah," yet with entreaty for permission to go back and kiss father and mother. The new ties and the old were both binding him, and the vain attempt was made to comply with both. God's call must from the first have the mastery. The seeming severity which we are called upon to exercise will yield fruits of joy. God, fully chosen, will be fully known; and the breaking of lower ties may preach the claims of God to those we love best. <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> <span class="accented">The answer</span>. "Go back again, for what have I done to thee?" The gift neglected is taken away. As we value it and sacrifice for it, in that measure is it given to us. Treat God's grace as nothing, and to you it becomes nothing. <p><span class="cmt_subheading">III.</span> THE CHOICE MADE. <p><span class="Text_Heading">1.</span> <span class="accented">The past was broken with</span>. His own yoke of oxen were slain, the instruments of his toll consumed. <p><span class="Text_Heading">2.</span> <span class="accented">It was done with gladness</span>. He made a feast for the people. <p><span class="Text_Heading">3.</span> <span class="accented">He took the place which God meanwhile assigned him</span>. "Then he arose, and went after Elijah, and ministered unto him." Humble, loving companionship with God's people is preparation for taking up their work. - J.U. <p> </div></div></div><div id="botbox"><div class="padbot"><div align="center">The Pulpit Commentary, Electronic Database.<br />Copyright © 2001, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2010 by Biblesoft, Inc.<br />All rights reserved. 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