1 Kings 17:11

And as she was going to get it, he called to her and said, "Please bring me a piece of bread."

Study Bible

And as she was going to get it
This phrase occurs during a time of severe drought in Israel, which Elijah had prophesied as a judgment from God. The widow of Zarephath, a Gentile living in Phoenicia, is gathering sticks to prepare a final meal for herself and her son. Her willingness to go and fetch water for Elijah, a stranger, demonstrates hospitality and obedience, which were highly valued in ancient Near Eastern culture. This act of service foreshadows her faith and the miraculous provision that will follow.

he called to her and said
Elijah's calling to the widow signifies a divine appointment. Prophets often acted as God's messengers, and Elijah's interaction with the widow is a demonstration of God's concern for individuals, regardless of their nationality or status. This moment highlights the importance of listening to God's voice and being open to His guidance, even in unexpected circumstances.

“Please bring me a piece of bread.”
Elijah's request for bread is significant given the context of famine. Bread, a staple food, symbolizes sustenance and life. This request tests the widow's faith and willingness to trust in God's provision. The narrative parallels the provision of manna in the wilderness (Exodus 16) and foreshadows Jesus' teaching on God providing for our needs (Matthew 6:11). Elijah's request also prefigures Christ, who is the "bread of life" (John 6:35), offering spiritual sustenance to all who believe.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elijah
A prophet of God who is central to this account. He is known for his faithfulness and obedience to God's commands, even in difficult circumstances.

2. Widow of Zarephath
A Gentile woman living in Zarephath, a town in Sidon. She is approached by Elijah during a time of severe drought and famine.

3. Zarephath
A town in the region of Sidon, outside of Israel. It is significant that God sends Elijah to a Gentile area, highlighting His concern for all people.

4. Drought and Famine
The backdrop of this account is a severe drought and famine, which God had brought upon the land as a judgment against Israel's idolatry.

5. God's Provision
This event is a demonstration of God's miraculous provision and faithfulness, both to Elijah and the widow.

Teaching Points

Faith in Action
The widow's willingness to serve Elijah, despite her dire circumstances, exemplifies faith in action. Believers are called to trust God and act in faith, even when resources seem scarce.

God's Sovereignty and Care
God's direction of Elijah to a Gentile widow in Zarephath underscores His sovereignty and care for all people, regardless of their background. This challenges believers to trust in God's plan and care for them.

Obedience Leads to Blessing
Elijah's obedience to God's command to go to Zarephath and the widow's obedience to provide for Elijah result in God's miraculous provision. Obedience to God's word is often a precursor to experiencing His blessings.

Hospitality and Generosity
The widow's hospitality, even in her poverty, is a powerful example of generosity. Believers are encouraged to be hospitable and generous, trusting that God will meet their needs.

Dependence on God
The account illustrates the importance of depending on God for provision. In times of need, believers are reminded to rely on God's faithfulness rather than their own understanding or resources.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the widow's response to Elijah's request demonstrate faith, and how can we apply this kind of faith in our own lives?

2. In what ways does this account challenge our understanding of God's provision and care for people outside of our immediate community or faith tradition?

3. How can Elijah's obedience to God's direction inspire us to follow God's leading, even when it takes us to unexpected places or people?

4. What are some practical ways we can show hospitality and generosity, even when we feel we have little to give?

5. How does this passage encourage us to trust in God's provision during times of personal drought or famine, and what other scriptures reinforce this trust?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Luke 4:25-26
Jesus references the widow of Zarephath, highlighting God's grace to Gentiles and the faith required to receive His provision.

James 5:17-18
Elijah is mentioned as a man of prayer, emphasizing the power of prayer and faith in God's provision.

Matthew 6:31-33
Jesus teaches about God's provision, encouraging believers to seek first His kingdom and righteousness.