The phrase “The word of the Lord came to Elijah” is a powerful and repeated expression in the Bible that signifies divine revelation and communication. Here’s what it means, broken down theologically and contextually:
🔹 Meaning of the Phrase
“The word of the Lord came to Elijah” (e.g., 1 Kings 17:2, 1 Kings 18:1)
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Direct Revelation
- It indicates that God personally spoke to Elijah, giving him instruction, prophecy, or direction.
- This is not just human intuition or imagination—it’s a divine message, often marking a turning point in events.
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Authority and Clarity
- “The word of the Lord” carries absolute authority—what follows is to be trusted, obeyed, and often proclaimed to others.
- In Elijah’s case, it often involved challenging kings, announcing judgment, or providing miraculous guidance (like during the drought or before confronting the prophets of Baal).
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A Prophet’s Calling
- Elijah, as a prophet, is not acting on his own wisdom. He speaks and acts under divine commission.
- This phrase reaffirms that Elijah’s words and actions are backed by God’s will, not personal ambition.
🔹 Biblical Examples with Elijah
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1 Kings 17:2–3 –
“Then the word of the Lord came to Elijah: ‘Leave here, turn eastward and hide in the Kerith Ravine…’”
→ God gives direction for safety and provision during a time of famine. -
1 Kings 18:1 –
“After a long time, in the third year, the word of the Lord came to Elijah: ‘Go and present yourself to Ahab, and I will send rain on the land.’”
→ Marks a dramatic moment when God is ready to end the drought and show His power over Baal.
🔹 Spiritual Significance Today
- It shows that God still speaks, often through His Word, Spirit, and servants.
- It reminds believers to listen closely for God’s voice and be ready to obey, even when the message is difficult or countercultural.
- For teachers, preachers, and prophets today, it is a call to speak only what God has given, not personal opinions.
🕊️ Reflection
The phrase also invites us to ask:
Am I listening for the Word of the Lord in my life?
And when it comes—through Scripture, prayer, or wise counsel—am I willing to act on it, like Elijah did?