Bgroup Lesson Part 9 of 10
Two people appeared to Christ on the Mount of Transfiguration: Moses and Elijah. They represent the “Law” and the “Prophets.” Elijah was an amazing leader who brought Israel to her knees in repentance by mighty signs and wonders.
Elijah wore a “garment of hair with a leather belt around his waist” (2 Kings 1: 8). It is interesting that this is the exact dress of John the Baptist also (Mt. 3: 4).
Malachi prophesied that God said, “I will send you Elijah the prophet.” Luke said that John the Baptist came in the “spirit and power of Elijah.” Elijah was a man’s man, a rough-cut, powerful “wilderness prophet.” He did not mince words but challenged kings to repent. This is a huge part of the ministry of a “prophet.”
Question: Elijah personifies a “man’s man.” Why do we always think of spiritual people as weak and effeminate? What’s wrong with this picture?
Elijah prophesied to Ahab, the wicked king and husband of Jezebel, that it would not rain until he gave the command. For 3 1/2 years he hid, first by the brook Cherith where ravens fed him twice a day and then with a widow north of Israel in Zarephath.
These miracles are miracles of “provision.” God faithfully provided a raven with meat in his mouth twice a day and caused a barrel of flour to never run out for forty-two months. Elijah even raised the widow’s son from the dead in appreciation for sustaining him in the drought.
Question: Elijah wandered in the wilderness for forty-two months, living hand to mouth. Have you ever had to trust God for “daily bread” and watched Him supernaturally supply your needs?
Elijah returned to Israel and called for the king to meet him with his 450 prophets of Baal for a spiritual “showdown.” Each group (starting with the prophets of Baal) built an altar, put on a sacrifice, and prayed for “fire.”
After a day of prayer, Baal’s prophets could produce no fire. Elijah prayed a sixty-word prayer and fire licked up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones, the water Elijah had doused the sacrifice with and even the dirt under the altar! Elijah finished by killing the prophets of Baal. This bold move infuriated Jezebel and she swore to kill him.
Question: Elijah took his stand against the prophets of Baal. What do we need to do in today’s world of wickedness and moral confusion?
After this great victory, Elijah went through a time of severe discouragement and isolation (now called the “Elijah syndrome”). Jezebel’s threat caused him to flee to the southern deserts of Israel near Egypt, all the way to Mt. Sinai. God spoke to Elijah there in a “still, small voice.” Sometimes, our greatest triumphs leave us empty and weary. We need to hear the voice of God giving us fresh direction. God told Elijah to “anoint Elisha” as his successor.
Question: Have you ever gone through a time of discouragement and depression after a great victory? How did you come out of it?
The final event in Elijah’s life was the day of his “departure” from earth. His successor, Elisha, followed him to several cities before Elijah asked him what he wanted? He replied “A double portion of your spirit”! Suddenly, a chariot of fire came between the two of them and Elijah was swept up to heaven, dropping his mantle to earth for Elisha to pick up and use. Only Elijah and Enoch are recorded as never dying. Some speculate these are the “two witnesses” of Revelation 11: 2.
Question: Who is your “Elisha”? Who are you developing as a man of God to step up when you are gone?
Action Point: Take a few minutes to pray for those in the group who may be walking through trials that are causing them to question their leadership. Encourage any group members who have not read Life 01, that now would be a great time to learn more about Jesus, our greatest Hero, and what He did for you.
The Freedom Encounter: So many men have been exposed to and even participated in immoral practices and need a time of cleansing. The Freedom Encounter is a great place to receive healing and deliverance from your past. Ask your B-Group Leader about attending at the end of this semester. Do you have another man that you are accountable to? If not, would you like one or is that a future step for you?
Leader: Take a few minutes and ask if any men need specific prayer over a need they may be facing. As you speak with the men in your group, find out what the next step is for them in the Bethany Growth Track.