In this sermon, Stephen emphasizes the life and faithfulness of the prophet Elijah, highlighting his unwavering commitment to God amidst a corrupt and idolatrous Israel under King Ahab and Jezebel. Elijah’s name itself signifies “whose God is Jehovah,” reflecting his bold declaration of God's sovereignty in a time of widespread apostasy. Elijah’s life was marked by prayer, obedience, and total dependence on God, which enabled him to stand firm against the prevailing evil. Despite being in exile in Gilead, Elijah remained faithful, praying earnestly for God's guidance and power. God’s instructions to Elijah—such as hiding by the brook Cherith and being fed by ravens—demonstrate God's sovereignty and ability to use unlikely instruments for His purposes. Elijah’s bold proclamation that there would be no rain or dew for years was a divine judgment rooted in God's love, meant to awaken Israel from their spiritual slumber. The story of the widow in Zarephath reveals Elijah’s humility and faith, as he relies on God's provision through a foreign widow, illustrating that God's work often surpasses human expectations. Elijah’s experience with the widow’s son teaches that God is both the God of judgment and resurrection, emphasizing the importance of knowing God personally. Stephen concludes that today, believers must be fully committed and abandoned to God, like Elijah, to faithfully declare His Word and be used in these challenging times.

Outline of Main Points

Elijah’s identity and time: a prophet in a corrupt Israel under Ahab and Jezebel.
His name signifies allegiance to Jehovah, standing against idolatry.
Elijah’s life characterized by prayer, obedience, and dependence on God.
God’s instructions to Elijah: hiding by Cherith, feeding by ravens, and trusting His provision.
The divine judgment of drought as an act of love to awaken Israel.
Elijah’s bold declaration of God’s sovereignty before Ahab.
The significance of faith and personal experience with God’s power.
The story of the widow in Zarephath: humility, faith, and God's provision.
God as the God of judgment and resurrection, teaching believers to know Him personally.
The call for believers today to be fully committed, abandoned to God, and faithful in declaring His Word.

Messages from 1 Kings 17