Untitled Sermon (3)

Morsel of bread

Faith in the Face of Scarcity

Bible Passage: 1 Kings 17:1-16

Summary: In this passage, God instructs the prophet Elijah to seek sustenance from a widow during a severe drought. The widow, who appears to have little left, demonstrates extraordinary faith as she responds to Elijah's request, leading to the miraculous multiplication of her limited resources. This story teaches us that God often uses those who are at their lowest to display His power and provision, highlighting themes of reliance, desperation, and divine intervention in times of crisis.

Application: This sermon can empower Christians to recognize that even in our bleakest moments, God is present and capable of transforming our circumstances. It emphasizes the importance of surrendering our concerns to God and trusting Him to provide for our needs, encouraging believers to take steps of faith even when their resources seem insufficient.

Teaching: The key teaching of this sermon is that God delights in using the humble and the seemingly insignificant to accomplish His purposes. By sending Elijah to the widow, He demonstrates that faith does not depend on abundance but on a willingness to trust Him, no matter how dire the situation might be.

How this passage could point to Christ: This narrative foreshadows the ministry of Christ, who often provided for the needs of the hungry and needy, both physically and spiritually. Just as God provided for the widow and Elijah, so too does Christ offer spiritual nourishment and sustenance through His presence and teachings, fulfilling the promise of being a provider for those who have faith.

Big Idea: Miracles often emerge from moments of desperation when we choose to trust God with our little.

Recommended Study: To enhance your preparation for this sermon, consider analyzing the theological implications of God's provision as depicted in 1 Kings 17 through your Logos library. Explore scholarly perspectives on the cultural and religious significance of widows in ancient Israel, which may illuminate the message of divine care for the marginalized. Additionally, investigate how this story illustrates God’s character as a provider, allowing you to draw connections to the New Testament teaching concerning faith and reliance on Christ.

1. Proclamation Prompting Provision

1 Kings 17:1-6

You could focus on Elijah's initial proclamation to King Ahab about the coming drought. Highlight Elijah's faith and obedience to God's tough instructions. Reflect on how God's providence and protection are demonstrated even in the isolated wilderness through the ravens bringing him food. This can remind believers that God sometimes leads us into uncomfortable or unexpected places to deepen our reliance on Him and show His power in unexpected ways.

2. Paradox of Scarcity

1 Kings 17:7-12

Perhaps emphasize the widow's dire situation when Elijah arrives. Despite her limited resources, Elijah's request requires a leap of faith. This section can illustrate how God speaks into our own scarcity, calling us to trust Him with the little we have. It can inspire the congregation to step out in faith, trusting that God sees beyond our limitations and has a plan for our circumstances.

3. Promise of Abundance

1 Kings 17:13-16

Maybe stress the miraculous provision that occurs when the widow obeys Elijah's request. This could serve as a powerful reminder that faith-filled obedience can result in divine provision, and that God's resources never run dry. Highlight Christ's role as our true provider who meets all spiritual and physical needs, urging believers to walk in faith and expectancy, even when their resources seem inadequate.

The feeding of the 5,000 illustrates the significant impact of sharing our resources. When a boy offered his five loaves and two fish, he may not have realized the miracle it would ignite. This story serves as a reminder of how our small acts of generosity can lead to wonderful outcomes when placed in the hands of Jesus. It affirms that every contribution counts, encouraging us to participate in God’s work, even when it feels insignificant.

What does the widow's response to Elijah's request reveal about her faith in God?

How can we relate the widow's situation in 1 Kings 17 to our own experiences of scarcity?

In what ways does this passage show that God provides for us even in desperate times?

Why is it significant that God chose to send Elijah to a widow during a drought?

How does the story of Elijah and the widow illustrate the theme of reliance on God?

What teaching can be derived from the widow's limited resources leading to miraculous provision?

How does this story teach us about the importance of taking steps of faith?

What parallels can you draw between the widow's faith and our current challenges?

In church, you might feel disconnected or find it hard to engage with others during worship and activities. Consider the story of the early church in Acts, where believers gathered to share and support one another. This week, reach out to at least one person you don’t usually connect with. Invite them for lunch or coffee to encourage deeper relationships. By being proactive, you can foster a stronger community and reflect Christ's love more effectively, making your church a warmer place for everyone.

In your public life, you may often witness injustice or unkindness but feel unsure about how to respond. The story of the Good Samaritan serves as a powerful example of compassionate action. This week, keep your eyes open for someone in need, whether it’s a stranger struggling in a public space or a friend facing difficulty. Take a moment to offer assistance, whether through a kind word, a small act of service, or simply lending an ear. Engage with others not only as citizens but as Christ’s ambassadors.

Faith is not a refuge from reality. It is a demand that we face reality, with all its difficulties, opportunities, and implications.

Evelyn Underhill (Exponent of the Mystical Life)

Never can we rise to face God by what we know and by what we are, but only by love and faith are we lifted thus to know Him and adore Him!32

A. W. Tozer

Faith doesn’t ignore problems; it faces them honestly and seeks God’s help in solving them.

Warren W. Wiersbe