Elijah
Carousel of images for this Bible Exhibit
Elijah Raises the Widow’s Son
The prophet Elijah stands in the doorway of life and death, holding the widow’s son whom God has just restored. Light breaks through the darkness of grief, illuminating this moment of divine mercy and power. The outstretched arms of the mother express awe and hope as life returns, reminding us that God hears the cries of His people and brings life where there was despair.
Elijah Healing the Widow’s Son
In this tender moment, the prophet Elijah places his hand on the young boy who had fallen gravely ill, bringing him back to life through the power and mercy of God. The mother’s expression blends hope and relief as life returns to her child, illustrating a profound act of compassion and divine intervention. The scene captures the transformative mercy of God, turning sorrow into joy through His faithful servant.
Elijah was a prophet whose name means “My God is the Lord.” He appeared suddenly in Israel during the reign of King Ahab to confront idolatry and call the people back to the Lord 1 Kings 17:1 . Though we know little about his background, Elijah’s ministry shaped Israel’s history and theology. He lived during a dark time when Baal worship dominated, yet he stood alone to declare that the Lord is God.
Elijah first declared a drought in Israel, and for three years, no rain fell. During that time, God sustained him first by ravens at the brook Cherith, and then through a widow in Zarephath whose flour and oil miraculously never ran out 1 Kings 17:2-16 . When the widow’s son died, Elijah prayed, and the boy’s life returned, showing that God alone holds power over death 1 Kings 17:17-24 .
The most dramatic moment in Elijah’s ministry came at Mount Carmel. There, he challenged 450 prophets of Baal to call on their god while he called on the Lord. After they failed, Elijah rebuilt the Lord’s altar, drenched it with water, and prayed. Fire fell from heaven, consuming the sacrifice, stones, and water. The people cried out, “The Lord, He is God” 1 Kings 18:30-39 . Then, Elijah had the false prophets put to death, and the long-awaited rain finally came 1 Kings 18:40-46 .
But Elijah was not invincible. When Queen Jezebel threatened his life, he ran into the wilderness, prayed to die, and fell into despair 1 Kings 19:1-18 . God met him gently. He fed him, gave him rest, and led him to Mount Horeb. There, God revealed Himself not in wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a quiet whisper. Elijah felt alone, but God told him that 7,000 in Israel had not bowed to Baal. He gave Elijah new assignments and told him to anoint Elisha as his successor.
Elijah continued to confront kings and call Israel to faith. When his time came, he crossed the Jordan River with Elisha, and a chariot of fire appeared. Elijah was taken to heaven in a whirlwind, never tasting death 2 Kings 2:1-12 .
Elijah reappears in the New Testament. He stood with Moses at Jesus’ transfiguration Luke 9:30-31 . Jesus said John the Baptist came in the spirit and power of Elijah Matthew 11:14 , and James called him a man of prayer whose faith moved heaven James 5:17-18 . Elijah’s life was marked by power and fear, courage and exhaustion. He was human, but obedient. He shows that God works through ordinary people, sustains His servants, and speaks not only in fire but also in whispers.
