Small Group Guide for "Elijah and the Widow"

  1. Home
  2. Current Sermon Series
  3. Message Detail
  4. Small Group Guide for "Elijah and the Widow"

Elijah and the Widow

Sunday, November 3rd 2024

First Scripture: Luke 21:1–4

Second Scripture: 1 Kings 17:1-16 [17-24]

Use the Two Passages: Focus on the primary and secondary passages used in this sermon.

Pray for Understanding: Before diving into the text, take a moment to pray for guidance and illumination from the Holy Spirit. Ask for wisdom and insight as you study.

Read the Scriptures: Begin by reading the selected Scriptures thoughtfully and prayerfully. Read the passages more than once to familiarize yourself with the content.

Observation Questions: After reading the text, go through the "Observation Questions" section. These questions will help you notice and record specific details about the text. Look for key words, phrases, repeated ideas, and any observations that stand out to you.

Interpretation Questions: Once you've observed the text, proceed to the "Interpretation Questions" section. These questions will guide you in understanding the meaning and context of the passage. Consider the historical and cultural background, the author's intent, and how the passage fits into the larger narrative of the Bible.

Application Questions: Finally, explore the "Application Questions." These questions will help you apply the lessons and insights from the Scriptures to your own life. Reflect on how the text speaks to your faith, relationships, and daily choices.

Journal Your Insights: Write down your observations, interpretations, and applications in a journal or notebook. This will serve as a valuable record of your spiritual growth and understanding of the Word of God.

Discussion and Sharing: If you are studying in a group, take time to discuss your findings with others. Share your insights, listen to their perspectives, and learn from one another.

Pray for Transformation: As you conclude your study, pray for the transformation of your heart and mind. Ask God to help you live out the truths you've discovered in the Scriptures.

Consistency is Key: Make a habit of using this inductive Bible study method regularly. The more you practice, the more confident and skilled you will become in studying and understanding the Bible.

Remember that the goal of this inductive study method is not just to gain knowledge but to deepen your relationship with God and apply His Word to your life. Approach your study with an open heart, a curious mind, and a desire to grow in your faith.

May your study be richly blessed, and may God's Word transform your life as you engage with it through the inductive method.

View the Sermon this Guide was Created For

Objective: To explore the story of Elijah and the widow of Zarephath and its themes of sacrificial trust, generosity, and God's provision, encouraging us to embody a heart of compassion and faith in our daily lives.

Part 1: The Widow's Offering

Scripture: Luke 21:1-4

Takeaway: The widow's offering in the temple highlights the significance of giving out of our scarcity rather than abundance. It underscores the value of sacrificial trust and reminds us that God sees and honors our wholehearted generosity.

Reflection Questions:

  • What strikes you about the widow's offering in this passage?
  • How does her act of giving relate to the idea of sacrificial trust?
  • Have you ever given something that required you to trust deeply in God's provision? How did it feel?

Activity: Share a story or an example of when you witnessed or experienced sacrificial giving. How did it impact you or others involved?

Part 2: Elijah and the Widow of Zarephath

Scripture: 1 Kings 17:1-16

Takeaway: The interaction between Elijah and the widow shows how faith in God's promises can transform scarcity into abundance. The widow's willingness to trust Elijah's word, despite her dire situation, led to God's miraculous provision.

Reflection Questions:

  • What were the fears and challenges faced by the widow in this story?
  • How did her actions reflect a deep trust in Elijah's God, whom she did not worship?
  • In what ways have you experienced transformation by trusting in God's provision during difficult times?

Activity: Reflect on a situation where you faced scarcity or fear of not having enough. Discuss how faith or trust in God helped you navigate through that period.

Part 3: Sacrificial Trust and Community Building

Scripture: 1 Kings 17:17-24 (Optional, for deeper exploration)

Takeaway: Beyond the immediate provision of food, the story continues with the revival of the widow's son, signifying the deepening of her faith and the demonstration of God's sovereignty and care. This helps illustrate how faith builds and sustains communities even across differences.

Reflection Questions:

  • How does the continuation of this story enhance your understanding of God's provision?
  • What role does community play in the context of this story, and how can we emulate that in our communities today?
  • How can we open our hearts and resources to support others, like the widow did, and build bridges of faith and compassion?

Activity: Reflect on individuals or groups within your community who may be facing scarcity. Discuss ways your small group or community can extend trust and generosity to support them.

Group Discussion and Application

Connecting to the Sermon:

Relate the themes discussed in the sermon about moving away from a scarcity mindset towards one of faith and trust in God's provision.

Consider how the actions of the widow and Elijah parallel the challenges and opportunities for faith and community in our lives.

Discussion:

  • How does the story of Elijah and the widow inspire us to live with a heart that reflects God’s care for all?
  • In what ways can we practice sacrificial trust and generosity, especially towards those who are different from us?

Prayer: Close with a prayer, asking for the grace to live with generous hearts, the courage to trust in God’s unfailing provision, and the compassion to support and uplift others in our community.

Top