1 Kings 17:21

Then he stretched himself out over the child three times and cried out to the LORD, "O LORD my God, please let this boy's life return to him!"

Study Bible

Then he stretched himself out over the child
This phrase describes the prophet Elijah's physical action, which is both symbolic and significant. The Hebrew word for "stretched" is "madad," which implies an act of measuring or extending oneself. This act of stretching over the child can be seen as a representation of Elijah's deep empathy and identification with the child's plight. In the ancient Near Eastern context, such physical acts were often seen as a means of transferring life or invoking divine intervention. Elijah's action here is a profound demonstration of faith and a precursor to the miracles of Jesus, who also performed acts of healing through touch.

three times
The number three in the Bible often signifies completeness or divine perfection. In this context, Elijah's repetition of the act three times underscores his persistence in prayer and his unwavering faith in God's power to restore life. The use of "three" can also be seen as a foreshadowing of the resurrection of Christ, who rose on the third day, symbolizing victory over death and the completeness of God's redemptive plan.

and cried out to the LORD
The phrase "cried out" is translated from the Hebrew word "qara," which means to call out or proclaim. This is not a mere whisper or silent prayer; it is a fervent, passionate plea to God. Elijah's cry to the LORD reflects the intensity of his faith and his reliance on God's power. In the historical context, prophets often served as intermediaries between God and the people, and Elijah's cry is a testament to his role as a faithful servant who trusts in God's ability to perform miracles.

'O LORD my God
This invocation is deeply personal and reverent. The use of "O LORD" (Yahweh) signifies a direct appeal to the covenant-keeping God of Israel. By saying "my God," Elijah expresses a personal relationship with the Almighty, highlighting the intimacy and trust he has in God's character and promises. This phrase is a reminder of the personal nature of faith and the importance of a direct, personal relationship with God.

please let this boy’s life return to him!
Elijah's request is straightforward yet profound. The Hebrew word for "life" is "nephesh," which can also mean soul or breath. Elijah is asking for the restoration of the boy's very essence, his life force. This plea is a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty over life and death. In the broader scriptural context, it points to the hope of resurrection and the belief in God's power to restore and renew. Elijah's prayer is an act of faith that anticipates the ultimate resurrection through Christ, who is the source of eternal life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elijah
A prophet of God, known for his powerful prayers and miracles. In this passage, he is interceding for the life of a widow's son.

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

3. The Widow's Son
The child who becomes ill and dies, and whom Elijah prays for to be revived.

4. Zarephath
A town in Sidon, outside of Israel, where Elijah stays with the widow. It is significant as a place where God demonstrates His power and provision through Elijah.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, to whom Elijah prays for the boy's life to return.

Teaching Points

The Power of Persistent Prayer
Elijah's prayer was fervent and persistent, demonstrating the importance of earnest prayer in seeking God's intervention.

Faith in God's Sovereignty
Elijah's actions show a deep trust in God's power to give life, encouraging believers to have faith in God's ability to work miracles.

God's Care for All People
The miracle occurs in a Gentile region, illustrating God's love and care for all humanity, not just Israel.

The Role of Prophets
Elijah's role as a prophet highlights the importance of being a vessel through which God can work, reminding believers to be open to God's calling.

Life and Resurrection
The restoration of the boy's life prefigures the resurrection power of Christ, offering hope in God's ultimate victory over death.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Elijah's method of prayer in 1 Kings 17:21 inspire you to approach God in your own prayer life?

2. In what ways does the account of the widow of Zarephath challenge or encourage your understanding of God's provision?

3. How can Elijah's faith in God's power to raise the dead influence your perspective on seemingly impossible situations in your life?

4. What does this passage teach us about God's concern for people outside of the traditional boundaries of faith communities?

5. How can the account of Elijah and the widow's son deepen your understanding of the resurrection and its significance in the Christian faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

James 5:16-18
This passage highlights the power of a righteous person's prayer, using Elijah as an example of effective prayer.

Luke 4:25-26
Jesus references Elijah's stay with the widow of Zarephath, emphasizing God's care for Gentiles and the faith of the widow.

2 Kings 4:32-35
Elisha, Elijah's successor, performs a similar miracle by raising a Shunammite woman's son, showing the continuation of God's power through His prophets.

Hebrews 11:35
This verse mentions women receiving their dead back to life, connecting to the faith and miracles seen in the lives of prophets like Elijah.