The Dark Frown of Providence

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Jun 5, 2016 by: Dale Thiele | Series: The Life of Elijah Scripture: 1 Kings 17:17-24 Tags: prayer, faith, death, sin, Resurrection, widow, tragedy

The Life of Elijah
The Dark Frown of Providence
1 Kings 17:17-24

  • Tragedy in Perspective: What does the widow see?
  • Tragedy is Never the End: What does God do?
  • The Nature of Refined Faith

Questions for Further Study or Group Discussion

  1. Read 1 Kings 17:17-24. How does the widow interpret the situation about her son’s death? Why is it important to understand that all tragedy, in God’s providence, is the result of sin?
  2. What does the resurrection of the son teach us about God’s response to sin and tragedy in this world?
  3. If God “listened to the voice of Elijah” and raised the son, should we then believe that God will listen to our voice whenever we pray fervently? Why or why not?
  4. How does the woman’s response in verse 24 reveal faith? What is the nature of this faith that has been refined by tragedy?
  5. Why is hope and confidence in God’s word more important than physical life and comfort?

Memory Verse of the Week: Proverbs 30:5 Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. (ESV)