1 Kings 17:19

But Elijah said to her, "Give me your son." So he took him from her arms, carried him to the upper room where he was staying, and laid him on his own bed.

Study Bible

But Elijah said to her
The phrase begins with "But," indicating a contrast or a shift in the narrative. Elijah, the prophet of God, is responding to the widow's distress. The name "Elijah" means "My God is Yahweh," reflecting his role as a prophet who demonstrates God's power and presence. In the historical context, Elijah is a central figure during a time of spiritual decline in Israel, serving as a conduit for God's miraculous works.

Give me your son
This command is direct and authoritative, reflecting Elijah's confidence in God's power to intervene. The Hebrew root for "give" (נָתַן, natan) implies a transfer of trust and responsibility. By asking for the widow's son, Elijah is inviting her to place her faith in God's ability to restore life. This act of faith is significant, as it sets the stage for a miraculous demonstration of God's power.

So he took him from her arms
The imagery of Elijah taking the child from the mother's arms is poignant, symbolizing a transfer of care and hope. The act of taking the child signifies Elijah's willingness to bear the burden of the widow's grief and to act as an intermediary between her and God. This reflects the compassionate nature of God's prophets, who often serve as mediators of divine grace and intervention.

carried him to the upper room
The "upper room" is significant in biblical narratives as a place of prayer, reflection, and divine encounter. In ancient Near Eastern architecture, upper rooms were often used for private and sacred activities. This setting underscores the solemnity and spiritual significance of what is about to occur. Elijah's choice to bring the child to this space indicates his intention to seek God's presence and intervention.

where he was staying
This phrase highlights Elijah's temporary residence, emphasizing his status as a sojourner and a man of God who relies on divine provision. The transient nature of Elijah's stay reflects the broader theme of dependence on God, a recurring motif in the lives of the prophets. It also underscores the idea that God's presence and power are not confined to a single location but are accessible wherever His servants call upon Him.

and laid him on his own bed
By laying the child on his own bed, Elijah is creating a personal and intimate space for the miracle to unfold. The bed, a place of rest and vulnerability, becomes a symbol of faith and expectation. This act of laying the child down is a preparatory step for the prayer and miracle that will follow, demonstrating Elijah's faith in God's ability to bring life from death. The personal nature of this gesture reflects the deep compassion and commitment of Elijah to the widow and her son, as well as his unwavering trust in God's power to save.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elijah
A prophet of God, known for his faithfulness and miraculous works. In this passage, he is staying with a widow in Zarephath during a time of famine.

2. The Widow of Zarephath
A Gentile woman who provides for Elijah during the famine. Her son falls ill and dies, prompting Elijah's intervention.

3. The Widow's Son
The child of the widow, whose illness and subsequent death become the focal point of Elijah's miraculous act of raising him back to life.

4. Upper Room
A private space in the widow's house where Elijah was staying. It becomes the setting for the miracle of resurrection.

5. Zarephath
A town in Sidon, outside of Israel, highlighting God's work beyond the borders of His chosen people.

Teaching Points

Faith in Action
Elijah's response to the widow's crisis demonstrates active faith. Believers are called to trust God and act in faith during difficult times.

God's Sovereignty
The miracle of resurrection underscores God's control over life and death, encouraging believers to trust in His ultimate authority.

Prayer's Power
Elijah's prayerful approach to the situation highlights the importance of earnest prayer in seeking God's intervention.

God's Care for All
The account of the widow of Zarephath illustrates God's compassion and provision for all people, regardless of their background.

Miracles as Testimonies
The resurrection of the widow's son serves as a testimony to God's power and faithfulness, encouraging believers to share their own testimonies of God's work in their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Elijah's response to the widow's crisis demonstrate his faith in God, and how can we apply this in our own lives when facing challenges?

2. In what ways does the account of the widow of Zarephath illustrate God's care for those outside of Israel, and how does this relate to the New Testament message of the Gospel?

3. How does Elijah's prayer in this passage serve as a model for our own prayer life, especially in times of crisis?

4. What does the miracle of the widow's son teach us about God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding impact our daily trust in Him?

5. How can we use the testimonies of God's work in our lives, similar to the miracle in this passage, to encourage and strengthen the faith of others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 17:21-22
Elijah's prayer and the subsequent resurrection of the widow's son demonstrate God's power over life and death.

Luke 4:25-26
Jesus references the widow of Zarephath, emphasizing God's care for Gentiles and His provision through Elijah.

James 5:17-18
Elijah is cited as a man of powerful prayer, reinforcing the importance of prayer in the life of believers.

Hebrews 11:35
The faith of women who received their dead back to life is celebrated, connecting to the widow's experience.