Sermon Series – The Life of Elijah


November 11, 2014 |

From September 2014 to January, 2015, we’ll be studying the life of Elijah (1 Kings 16  up to 2 Kings 2)

To listen to any sermons in the series, click here.

WHY a series on the life of Elijah?

1) Elijah is a powerful example to us of a faith-full, spirit-filled life. Furthermore, he was one of the greatest prophets. His importance is underscored during the ministry of Jesus, at the transfiguration, where Jesus is seen by his disciples in his glory, and two central figures appear with him: Moses and Elijah. So, Elijah was a pivotal Old Testament character, and it is therefore well worth our time to study his life and find out why he was such a great man of God, and how we can emulate his example.

2) The New Testament underscores how similar Elijah was to us. James 5:17 says, “Elijah was a man just like us.” He had emotions like us. He had ups and downs like us. He had like passions. He got emotionally drained. He got discouraged. He got depressed. He felt fear. He wasn’t perfect. He sinned and made mistakes. He was like us in more ways than we might think.

3) The life of Elijah has so much to teach us today. Let us remember what the The New Testament says about the Old Testament stories.

Romans 15:4 says, “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.” God has something to teach us from every story in the Old Testament, including the stories recorded about Elijah. Though he lived some 3000 years ago, his life speaks to us with contemporary power. As we study the story of Elijah we’re going to see that …

  • Elijah experienced great hardships in life. Therefore his story speaks to those who are facing serious hardships.
  • Elijah experienced great isolation. Therefore his story speaks to those who feel all alone.
  • Elijah, at times, felt quite helpless in the battle against evil. Therefore his story speaks to those who feel weak and worn out trying to withstand evil or temptation.
  • Elijah also experienced failure. Therefore, his story speaks to those who feel like failures.
  • Elijah was used powerfully by God. Therefore, his story speaks to those who desire to live a life that counts spiritually.
  • Elijah stood strong for God in a time where there was lots of opposition towards him. Therefore, his story speaks to those who want to stand strong for God in our world today.

 

 

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