Elijah the Tishbite

The class explores the background to Elijah's ministry, focusing on the moral and spiritual decline of Israel under kings like Saul, David, and Solomon. It highlights the importance of faithfulness to God's commands and the consequences of idolatry and disobedience.

Passages: 1 Kings 16:32-33, Deuteronomy 31:9, Deuteronomy 17:14-20, Joshua 6:26

The class discusses Elijah's journey and sustenance during the drought, emphasizing his faithfulness and obedience to God's commands. It covers Elijah's time by the brook Kareth, where he is fed by ravens, and his subsequent journey to Zarephath to stay with a widow, highlighting God's provision and the widow's faith.

Passages: 1 Kings 17:1-16

The class discusses Elijah's interactions with a widow whose son dies, exploring themes of faith, suffering, and divine testing. It also covers Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal, emphasizing the power of true faith and prayer.

Passages: 1 Kings 17:17-24, 1 Kings 18:20-46

The class focuses on Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, emphasizing the importance of faith and obedience. Elijah repairs the altar and performs a sacrifice, demonstrating God's power and leading the people to recognize Yahweh as the true God.

Passages: 1 Kings 18:30-40

The class explores Elijah's journey to Horeb after his confrontation with the prophets of Baal, emphasizing God's broader purpose beyond Israel and Elijah's need for perspective. It also draws parallels with Job and Jesus' teachings on the still, small voice of God, highlighting the importance of obedience and perseverance in faith.

Passages: 1 Kings 19:1-18, Acts 7:1-38, John 3:1-8, Luke 9:51-62

The class covers Elijah's interactions with King Ahab and Queen Jezebel, focusing on the story of Naboth's vineyard and the consequences of Ahab's repentance. It emphasizes the importance of deep, heartfelt repentance and the moral decay that results from compromise.

Passages: 1 Kings 21:1-16, 1 Kings 21:27-29, 2 Kings 2:9-15