Nearly every day we encounter something in the news we'd rather forget. As 1 and 2 Kings proves, Elijah's world was no less distressing. In these 8 studies on Elijah's life, Douglas Connelly helps you look beyond the insecurity of the world to our sovereign God who reigns forever.

Introduction

Getting the Most Out of Elijah
This section introduces the topic, explains the structure followed in each study and offers tips for those approaching the study on their own as well as those participating in a group.

Session One

Obeying God in Times of Terror
God told Elijah to hide himself in a secluded ravine. Which do you think was easier for Elijah—confronting Ahab publicly or waiting in the obscurity of the ravine? Do you find it easier to do God's will or to wait for God's time? Explain what is difficult about each.

1 Kings 16:29-17:4

Session Two

When the Brook Dries Up
Why did God supply Elijah with food twice a day? Why not just stock a cave with a year's worth of groceries?
1 Kings 17:5-24

Session Three

Standing Alone
Why does Elijah expend such effort to prepare the altar and douse the sacrifice? Where would you like to see the fire of God's transforming power fall in your life?
1 Kings 18:1-40

Session Four

Prevailing Prayer
Elijah ran ahead of Ahab's chariot more than twenty miles to Jezreel. How does the passage explain this amazing feat? What spiritual results do you think this experience in prayer and empowerment produced in Elijah?
1 Kings 18:41-46

Session Five

Defeating Discouragement
What was God demonstrating to Elijah in the wind, the earthquake and the fire? When God finally spoke in the whisper, what do you think he said?
1 Kings 19

Session Six

Blood in the Vineyard
What insight does God's judgment on Ahab's family give you about God's attitude toward those who pursue injustice and oppression in our society?
1 Kings 21

Session Seven

When Mockers Speak
Recall a time in your life when you "went to Ekron"—that is, turned to other sources for answers that only God can supply. How did God intercept you or turn you back to him?

2 Kings 1

Session Eight

Heaven Without Dying
Elijah and Elisha revived an ancient tradition in Israel. They gathered committed students together into "companies of prophets." Who is your "company" of fellow learners? What can you do to strengthen your relationships with these key people?
2 Kings 2:1-14

Total number of pages - 61 pages

Douglas Connelly (M.Div. and M.Th., Grace Theological Seminary) is senior pastor at Parkside Community Church in Sterling Heights, Michigan. A writer and speaker, Connelly has written books and Bible study guides, including Encountering Jesus, Good & Evil, Miracles and Heaven, all from InterVarsity Press.

Bible Studies on Bible Characters

Elijah: Living Securely in an Insecure World