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1 Kings 19:12
Verse
Context
The LORD Speaks to Elijah at Horeb
11Then the LORD said, “Go out and stand on the mountain before the LORD. Behold, the LORD is about to pass by.” And a great and mighty wind tore into the mountains and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. 12After the earthquake there was a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a still, small voice.13When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. Suddenly a voice came to him and said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- John Gill
John Gill Bible Commentary
And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire,.... As he was when he descended on this mount, and spake to Moses, Exo 19:1, the Targum, and so Jarchi, interpret all these appearances of angels, and not amiss; the wind, of an host of angels of wind; the earthquake, of an host of angels of commotion; the fire, of an host of angels of fire; see Psa 104:4, these ministers of the Lord went before him, to prepare the way of his glorious Majesty; which emblems may represent the power of God, the terribleness of his majesty, and the fury of his wrath, which he could display, if he would, to the destruction of his enemies; and could as easily destroy the idolatrous kingdom of Israel, which Elijah seems to be solicitous of, as the wind rent the mountains, and broke the rocks, and the earthquake shook the earth, and the fire consumed all in its way; but he chose not to do it now, but to use lenity, and show mercy, signified by the next emblem: and after the fire a still small voice: not rough, but gentle, more like whispering than roaring; something soft, easy, and musical; the Targum is, the voice of those that praise God in silence; and all this may be considered as showing the difference between the two dispensations of law and Gospel; the law is a voice of terrible words, and was given amidst a tempest of wind, thunder, and lightning, attended with an earthquake, Heb 12:18, but the Gospel is a gentle voice of love, grace, and mercy, of peace, pardon, righteousness, and salvation by Christ; and may also point at the order and manner of the Lord's dealings with the souls of men, who usually by the law breaks the rocky hearts of men in pieces, shakes their consciences, and fills their minds with a sense of fiery wrath and indignation they deserve, and then speaks comfortably to them, speaks peace and pardon through the ministration of the Gospel by his Spirit; blessed are the people that hear this still, small, gentle voice, the joyful sound, Psa 89:15.
1 Kings 19:12
The LORD Speaks to Elijah at Horeb
11Then the LORD said, “Go out and stand on the mountain before the LORD. Behold, the LORD is about to pass by.” And a great and mighty wind tore into the mountains and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. 12After the earthquake there was a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a still, small voice.13When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. Suddenly a voice came to him and said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Call of God
By Alan Redpath6.2K46:03Call Of God1KI 19:12JON 1:3JHN 3:16REV 1:9REV 1:20In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God and fulfilling our missionary responsibilities. He highlights that living in a global village means that the world is much smaller than we think, making the task of spreading the gospel even greater. The speaker also mentions the inspiring example of retired individuals serving the Lord on the mission field. He references the story of John, who was exiled on a lonely island for proclaiming Jesus Christ, to illustrate that persecution and opposition still exist today. The sermon concludes with the reminder that the church, represented by the seven golden lampstands, must shine brightly by actively spreading the message of Christ.
(The Power of the Holy Spirit - 1) the Breath of God
By Zac Poonen3.4K56:58GEN 1:3GEN 1:61KI 19:12JOB 38:1LUK 16:29JHN 3:8JHN 8:32In this sermon, the speaker begins a series of messages on the power of the Holy Spirit. He focuses on the use of word pictures by Jesus to illustrate spiritual truths. The first picture discussed is the comparison of the Holy Spirit to wind or breath. The speaker emphasizes the importance of speaking God's word and the transformative power it has, using the example of Ezekiel prophesying to dry bones. He highlights the need for the breath of God, the Holy Spirit, to bring life and make believers soldiers in the army of the Lord.
What a Jew Does With Jesus
By Art Katz2.6K56:08Intellectualism1KI 19:12MAT 10:20MAT 16:16JHN 3:16JHN 10:27JHN 14:9ACT 19:4In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his personal journey of disillusionment and despair, leading him to a crisis in his 34th year. As a high school teacher, he realizes that the world cannot be saved through legislation, revolutions, or bloodshed. He then recounts a pivotal moment in Jerusalem where he audibly hears the voice of God, which leads him to write a book called "Ben Israel." The speaker emphasizes the importance of focusing on the still small voice of God amidst the noise and distractions of the world.
Fren-08 Elijah the Prophet
By Art Katz1.9K1:17:36ElijahEXO 32:61KI 19:12MAT 6:33JHN 12:43ACT 20:28ROM 12:22CO 6:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Elijah and the brook drying up during a devastating drought in the land. The speaker emphasizes the importance of living by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God. Despite the brook drying up and the pressure from his family, Elijah remains obedient to God's command to arise and go. The speaker highlights the power and authority that comes from a life immersed in the word of God.
Upon This Rock
By Vance Havner1.8K27:16Promises Of God1KI 18:211KI 19:12JER 2:36MAT 6:33MAT 27:51MAT 28:2ACT 2:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of finding time for reflection and stillness in our busy lives. He shares his own experience of taking time to watch the sunset and listen to the birds during the depression. He references Jesus' example of finding a solitary place to pray and encourages listeners to make time for prayer and reflection. The preacher also highlights the danger of being caught up in the rat race and urges people to prioritize their spiritual well-being over worldly pursuits.
History of Revival (1740-1851), 1
By Ian Murray1.5K53:48JDG 2:81KI 19:12MIC 2:7MAT 6:33REV 2:5In this sermon, the preacher discusses the common features observed in revivals. One of these features is a great hunger for the word of God, where people cannot hear it preached enough. As a result, churches often increase their services during revivals to accommodate the demand. Additionally, after the preaching of the word, some individuals may be so convicted and grieved that they stay behind, hoping for comfort or guidance from someone. The preacher also emphasizes the importance of not neglecting the history of the church and the works of God, as periods of spiritual declension are often associated with forgetfulness of God's dealings.
K-000 What a Jew Does With Jesus
By Art Katz1.4K56:08Jesus Christ1KI 19:12PSA 46:10MAT 11:28LUK 24:27JHN 10:27JHN 14:6ACT 9:19In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his personal journey of disillusionment and despair, leading him to a crisis in his 34th year. As a high school teacher, he had a moment of indignation where he proclaimed the need for a revolution. However, he eventually realizes that there is no human answer to the predicament Jesus faced. Through reading the Bible, specifically the story of Jesus and the woman at his feet, the speaker comes to a revelation about the true nature of power politics and the deeper issues that people are concerned with.
K-529 Circumcision as Separation
By Art Katz1.4K57:44CircumcisionGEN 17:1GEN 17:6DEU 30:2DEU 30:61KI 19:12MAT 6:33In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of worshiping the living God. He highlights that no religion or human effort can substitute for a genuine relationship with God. The preacher shares his personal testimony of how he was once an atheist but was led to believe in God through a powerful experience in Jerusalem. He also references a biblical passage in which God confounded the enemies of his people when they worshiped and praised him. The sermon concludes with the preacher emphasizing the transformative power of worship and the need for a genuine heart connection with God.
The Holy Spirit - Part 3
By Ken Baird66252:411KI 19:12PSA 119:11MAT 17:52TI 3:162PE 1:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of earning and experiencing the leading of the Holy Spirit. He encourages listeners to trust the Spirit's guidance and to pay attention to the impressions and uncertainties that the Spirit brings to their minds. The speaker also highlights the significance of Jesus being led by the Spirit into the wilderness after his baptism, showing that the Spirit's leading may not always result in a glorious experience. He emphasizes the power of the Word of God and the Spirit's role in revealing and teaching it to believers.
Sources of Power
By Basilea Schlink62204:35Radio Show1KI 19:12PSA 46:10PSA 62:1ISA 30:15MRK 1:35JHN 15:4JAS 1:22In this sermon, Basilia Schlink emphasizes the importance of quiet and solitude in order to hear and obey the voice of God. She highlights how the noise and distractions of the world can drown out God's voice, and how Satan uses these distractions to prevent people from listening to God. Schlink encourages listeners to actively seek times of stillness and solitude with the Lord, as it is in these moments that God can speak and deepen our relationship with Him. She concludes by emphasizing that communion with the living God is the greatest blessing that can be obtained through seeking stillness and solitude.
The Dangers of Pride in Ministry
By Jim Cymbala49618:481KI 19:12PRO 3:6MAT 7:24JHN 10:27JAS 1:22This sermon emphasizes the importance of listening to God's voice and following His leading, recounting a powerful experience at the Brooklyn Tabernacle where God's presence was so strong that no preaching or singing could take place. It highlights the need for pastors and believers to prioritize hearing from God through prayer, the Word, and the Holy Spirit, rather than relying on human strategies or programs. The story of a televangelist who faced consequences for not listening to God serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the significance of heeding God's voice in all aspects of life and ministry.
Elijah Encouraged
By C.I. Scofield0GEN 3:91KI 19:12ZEC 4:6MAT 11:28MRK 4:26C.I. Scofield delivers a sermon on 1 Kings 19:9-18, highlighting Elijah's encounters with God in the cave, on the mount, and being brought back into service. The central lesson emphasizes the power of quietness, showcasing that God's work is best accomplished when individuals have peaceful hearts, as demonstrated by God's presence in the still small voice, not in the wind, earthquake, or fire. This message contrasts the world's clamor and pursuit of power with God's preference for quiet trust and assurance in His Spirit, echoing Jesus' call for rest, peace, and joy in Him.
God Heard in the Still Small Voice.
By Edward Payson01KI 19:12ZEC 4:6MAT 18:3JHN 16:8ACT 2:37Edward Payson preaches about the encounter of Elijah with God on Mount Horeb, highlighting how God often speaks to us in a still small voice, addressing us personally and turning our attention to ourselves, our conduct, and our situation. He emphasizes that true conversion and the effects of preaching come from the Spirit of God alone, not from powerful means or eloquent speeches. Payson urges listeners to reflect on God's questions to Elijah - 'What dost thou here?' - and apply them to their own lives, seeking genuine repentance and a deep relationship with God.
The Power of Silence
By Charles E. Cowman01KI 19:12PSA 46:10PSA 62:5ISA 30:15HAB 2:20ZEP 3:17MRK 6:31Charles E. Cowman preaches on the power of stillness and silence in knowing God, emphasizing the importance of quieting our hearts and minds to hear His voice. He describes the peace, strength, and deep rest that come from entering into a place of stillness with God, where His presence dwells in the midst of life's busyness. Through the imagery of a hushed tempest before a storm and the quiet center of a spinning wheel, he encourages listeners to seek God in the silence and experience His transformative love and renewal.
God's Gentle Whisper
By A.W. Tozer0SilencePrayerUnion with GodEXO 14:141KI 19:12PSA 46:10PSA 62:1ISA 30:15MAT 6:6LUK 5:16JHN 15:4PHP 4:6JAS 4:8A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of silence and stillness in learning profound truths about God, contrasting it with the lessons learned in the chaos of life. He argues that while prayer often focuses on requests and obtaining things from God, the highest form of prayer is about entering into a deep union with God, transcending mere requests. Tozer highlights that true understanding and connection with God come from moments of quiet reflection and being still, as encouraged by the psalmist. This deeper communion with God is far more significant than any miraculous answers to prayer.
God's Faithful Voice
By A.W. Tozer0Listening to God's VoiceUrgency of Salvation1KI 19:12PSA 46:10ISA 30:21MAT 11:28LUK 15:10JHN 10:27ROM 10:142CO 5:17HEB 3:15REV 3:20A.W. Tozer emphasizes the urgency of heeding God's faithful voice amidst impending judgments on the earth. He points out that many, including believers, often ignore the quiet yet constant call of God's love and grace, mistakenly believing they will have time to respond later. Tozer highlights that God has consistently sent messengers throughout generations, including prophets, preachers, and transformed individuals, to convey His message of salvation. The sermon serves as a reminder that the time to listen and respond to God's voice is now, as it may soon be too late for many. Ultimately, it is the Savior's call to wandering sinners that resonates most profoundly in this day of grace.
Silence
By Martin Hope Sutton01KI 19:12PSA 46:10ISA 30:15ISA 40:31MAT 11:28Martin Hope Sutton emphasizes the importance of stillness and silence in knowing God, sharing a personal experience of how he discovered the profound voice of God within him when he quieted his heart and mind. He highlights the necessity of tuning out the noisy distractions of the world to hear the gentle whisper of the Holy Spirit guiding and comforting us. Sutton illustrates that through stillness, we receive spiritual nourishment, strength, and wisdom, enabling us to face life's challenges with the peace and vitality that come from God.
The Whisper of God
By Erlo Stegen0Listening to GodSpiritual Maturity1KI 19:12Erlo Stegen emphasizes the importance of listening to God's whisper amidst life's chaos, using the story of Elijah as a powerful example. Despite living under the wicked rule of King Ahab, Elijah remained steadfast in his faith and showed respect for authority. After a dramatic confrontation with the prophets of Baal, Elijah fled from Jezebel's wrath and encountered God at Horeb, where he learned that God's voice is often found in the stillness rather than in the tumultuous events of life. Stegen encourages believers to quiet their hearts and draw near to God to hear His guidance, which is essential for spiritual maturity and fruitful ministry. The sermon highlights the necessity of living a pure life to remain attuned to God's whisper.
The Inward Conversation of Christ With the Faithful Soul
By Thomas a Kempis01KI 19:12PSA 46:10PSA 85:8JHN 10:27COL 3:2Thomas a Kempis emphasizes the importance of listening to the Lord speaking within us, highlighting the blessings that come from receiving divine consolation and wisdom. He encourages focusing on the eternal truths taught within, rather than being distracted by the noise of the world. Kempis urges believers to close off their senses to external influences and instead seek to understand the mysteries of God, cutting off hindrances from the world to draw closer to Him and find true happiness.
Letter 58
By James Bourne01KI 19:12PSA 123:1PRO 27:22LUK 18:13JAS 4:10James Bourne preaches about facing difficulties and trials as opportunities for spiritual growth and deeper intimacy with God. He encourages the listener to humbly come before God like the Publican, acknowledging their sinfulness and desperate need for God's mercy. Bourne emphasizes the importance of seeking spiritual growth and clarity through trials, trusting that God's love and intentions are always good, even in the midst of challenges.
Mind the Checks
By Charles E. Cowman01KI 19:12PSA 25:9PSA 32:8PSA 37:5PRO 3:5PRO 16:9PRO 19:21ISA 30:21JHN 10:27Charles E. Cowman emphasizes the importance of heeding God's gentle checks and restraints, comparing His voice to a still, small voice that must be felt and followed. He encourages listeners to give constant ear to God's gentle touches, obey His leading even when it seems contradictory or foolish, and trust in His wisdom and guidance without relying on their own understanding. By learning to wait on God, obeying His voice, and moving in faith even in the dark, one can develop a deep acquaintanceship and fellowship with God that sustains through trials and pressures.
Spiritual Discernment
By John Henry Jowett01KI 19:12PSA 32:8JHN 10:27JHN 12:261CO 15:22John Henry Jowett emphasizes the importance of spiritual discernment in recognizing the voice of the Lord amidst life's distractions and challenges. He highlights the need for believers to develop a keen ear to hear God's voice in times of sorrow and joy, ultimately leading to a deeper relationship with Him. Obedience to the Lord's call is essential for spiritual growth and sharpening our ability to listen to His voice, resulting in a life filled with vitality and eternal significance.
Listening to God Before We Speak for Him
By A.W. Tozer0Listening to GodThe Power of Silence1KI 19:12PSA 39:2PSA 46:10PSA 62:1PRO 17:28ECC 3:7ISA 30:15HAB 2:1MAT 6:6JAS 1:19A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of silence and listening to God before speaking on His behalf. He reflects on how true understanding and revelation come from a quiet heart, as exemplified by David's experience of musing in silence before speaking. Tozer suggests that many Christians would benefit from taking time to be still and listen for God's voice, which can lead to profound spiritual healing and insight. He warns that a busy mouth often hinders the heart from receiving divine truth. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the practice of silence to deepen our relationship with God.
Listening for God's Voice
By Mary Wilder Tileston01KI 19:12PSA 46:10PSA 85:8HAB 2:1JHN 10:27JAS 1:19Mary Wilder Tileston, through the words of Gerhard Tersteegen, emphasizes the importance of actively listening to God's voice in prayer and in moments of quiet waiting, recognizing that God is always speaking to us. She highlights the need to be attentive and seek God's presence in all things, not just during formal prayers, in order to receive His special confidences for each soul. Tileston encourages believers to hearken to the Lord's voice and to engage in deep devotional silence and contemplation to receive the deepest truths from God.
Healing Silence
By A.W. Tozer0SilenceSolitude1KI 19:12PSA 46:10PSA 62:1ISA 30:15HAB 2:20MAT 6:6MAT 14:23MRK 6:46LUK 5:16JHN 10:27A.W. Tozer emphasizes the profound importance of silence and solitude in our spiritual lives, drawing on the example of Jesus who often withdrew to pray in silence. He critiques the modern evangelical tendency to fill life with noise, which reflects immaturity and a lack of understanding of the healing power of quietness before God. Tozer urges believers to seek the discipline of solitude, allowing their souls to be refreshed and renewed in the presence of the Father. He calls for a commitment to mastering this practice, regardless of life's busyness, to truly experience God's presence.
- John Gill
John Gill Bible Commentary
And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire,.... As he was when he descended on this mount, and spake to Moses, Exo 19:1, the Targum, and so Jarchi, interpret all these appearances of angels, and not amiss; the wind, of an host of angels of wind; the earthquake, of an host of angels of commotion; the fire, of an host of angels of fire; see Psa 104:4, these ministers of the Lord went before him, to prepare the way of his glorious Majesty; which emblems may represent the power of God, the terribleness of his majesty, and the fury of his wrath, which he could display, if he would, to the destruction of his enemies; and could as easily destroy the idolatrous kingdom of Israel, which Elijah seems to be solicitous of, as the wind rent the mountains, and broke the rocks, and the earthquake shook the earth, and the fire consumed all in its way; but he chose not to do it now, but to use lenity, and show mercy, signified by the next emblem: and after the fire a still small voice: not rough, but gentle, more like whispering than roaring; something soft, easy, and musical; the Targum is, the voice of those that praise God in silence; and all this may be considered as showing the difference between the two dispensations of law and Gospel; the law is a voice of terrible words, and was given amidst a tempest of wind, thunder, and lightning, attended with an earthquake, Heb 12:18, but the Gospel is a gentle voice of love, grace, and mercy, of peace, pardon, righteousness, and salvation by Christ; and may also point at the order and manner of the Lord's dealings with the souls of men, who usually by the law breaks the rocky hearts of men in pieces, shakes their consciences, and fills their minds with a sense of fiery wrath and indignation they deserve, and then speaks comfortably to them, speaks peace and pardon through the ministration of the Gospel by his Spirit; blessed are the people that hear this still, small, gentle voice, the joyful sound, Psa 89:15.