April, 2001

This mighty prophet had a calling that was anything but free from conflict. He was strong, but self-controlled; disciplined, but forgiving; courageous, but kind. Swindoll explores each of these traits. He shows us a portrait of an ordinary man whom God transformed into His spokesman to confront the idolatry and evil of the ancient world.

This honest picture shows not only his strength, but also his human weaknesses. Elijah had the courage and faith to confront over 400 prophets of the false god Baal. After this success, he became so terrified of Queen Jezebel that he ran for his life, forgetting his trust in God's protection.

Swindoll explains that we are all subject to times of bravery and times of fear. He gives examples of modern day events and people with whom we can identify. Down through the ages, God had men and women in every era carry on His work.

From II Kings 2:11 we read that Elisha and Elijah were walking together and suddenly a chariot of fire and horses of fire appeared and separated the two of them. Elijah was swept up to heaven in a whirlwind. Then Elisha picked up the cloak that had fallen from Elijah and the spirit of Elijah fell on him.

The book Elijah is the fifth volumn of the series, “Great Lives from God's Word.” Each volume is a profile of that special character.

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