Biblical Reference:
The account of Elijah raising the widow's son is found in 1 Kings 17:17-24. This narrative is a significant event in the life of the prophet Elijah and serves as a powerful demonstration of God's power and compassion.

Context and Background:
Elijah, a prophet of God during the reign of King Ahab in Israel, is introduced in 1 Kings 17. He is sent by God to proclaim a drought as a judgment upon the land due to the idolatry led by Ahab and Jezebel. During this time, God provides for Elijah by sending him to the brook Cherith and later to the town of Zarephath, where a widow is commanded to sustain him.

The Widow of Zarephath:
The widow of Zarephath is a Gentile woman living in the region of Sidon. Despite her dire circumstances, she demonstrates faith by obeying Elijah's request to first make him a small cake with the last of her flour and oil. In response to her obedience, God miraculously provides for her, her son, and Elijah, ensuring that the flour and oil do not run out during the drought (1 Kings 17:8-16).

The Death of the Widow's Son:
The narrative takes a dramatic turn when the widow's son falls ill and dies. The widow, in her grief, questions Elijah, saying, "What do you have against me, O man of God? Have you come to remind me of my sin and kill my son?" (1 Kings 17:18). Her words reflect a common belief of the time that personal sin could result in divine retribution.

Elijah's Response and Prayer:
Elijah responds with compassion and urgency. He takes the boy from his mother's arms, carries him to the upper room where he is staying, and lays him on his own bed. Elijah then cries out to the LORD, "O LORD my God, have You also brought tragedy on this widow with whom I lodge, by killing her son?" (1 Kings 17:20). Elijah's prayer is earnest and heartfelt, demonstrating his deep reliance on God.

The Miracle of Resurrection:
Elijah stretches himself upon the child three times and prays, "O LORD my God, let this boy’s life return to him!" (1 Kings 17:21). The LORD hears Elijah's prayer, and the boy's life returns to him. Elijah then presents the living child to his mother, saying, "Look, your son is alive" (1 Kings 17:23).

Significance and Theological Themes:
This miracle is the first recorded instance of resurrection in the Bible, highlighting God's power over life and death. It underscores the theme of God's compassion and faithfulness, even to a Gentile widow, illustrating that God's mercy extends beyond the boundaries of Israel. The event also serves to authenticate Elijah's prophetic ministry, as the widow declares, "Now I know that you are a man of God and that the word of the LORD from your mouth is truth" (1 Kings 17:24).

Typology and Foreshadowing:
The raising of the widow's son can be seen as a typological foreshadowing of the resurrection power that would be fully revealed in Jesus Christ. It prefigures the New Testament accounts of Jesus raising the dead, such as the widow's son at Nain (Luke 7:11-17) and Lazarus (John 11:1-44), ultimately pointing to Christ's own resurrection.

Lessons and Applications:
The account of Elijah raising the widow's son teaches believers about the power of prayer, the importance of faith, and the boundless compassion of God. It encourages Christians to trust in God's provision and to seek His intervention in times of crisis, knowing that He is able to bring life and hope out of despair.