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1 Kings 19:18
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Seven thousand in Israel - That is, many thousands; for seven is a number of perfection, as we have often seen: so, The barren has borne seven - has had a numerous off-spring; Gold seven times purified - purified till all the dross is perfectly separated from it. The court and multitudes of the people had gone after Baal; but perhaps the majority of the common people still worshipped in secret the God of their fathers. Every mouth which hath not kissed him - Idolaters often kissed their hand in honor of their idols; and hence the origin of adoration - bringing the hand to the mouth after touching the idol, if it were within reach; and if not, kissing the right hand in token of respect and subjection. The word is compounded of ad, to, and os, oris, the mouth. Dextera manu deum contingentes, ori admovebant: "Touching the god with their right hand, they applied it to their mouth." So kissing the hand, and adoration, mean the same thing - Thus Pliny, Inter adorandum, dexteram ad osculum referimus, totum corpus circumagimus: Nat. Hist. lib. xxviii., cap. 2. - "In the act of adoration we kiss the right hand, and turn about the whole body." Cicero mentions a statue of Hercules, the chin and lips of which were considerably worn by the frequent kissing of his worshippers: Ut rictus ejus, et mentum paulo sit attritius, quod in precibus et gratulationibus, non solum id venerari, sed etiam osculari solent. - Orat. in Verrem. I have seen several instances of this, especially in the paintings of old saints: the lips and mouth of beautiful paintings literally worn away by the unmerciful osculations of devotees.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Yet I have left me seven thousand in Israel,.... From perishing by the sword of either of them: all the knees which have not bowed to Baal; that is, had not worshipped him, which was signified by this gesture: and every mouth which hath not kissed him; either the image of Baal itself, or the hand, in reverence of him; which rites, one or other, or both, were used by his worshippers; See Gill on Hos 13:2. This either refers, as some think, to the present time, and so is an answer to Elijah, who thought he was the only worshipper left with which seems to agree Rom 11:2, or to the times to come, when destruction should be made by the above persons, and when God would have some faithful worshippers, and would take care of them; so some render the words, "I will reserve", &c. (y). (y) "reservabo vel servabo", Vatablus; so V. L. Pagninus, Montanus, Tigurine version.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
19:18 The Lord corrected Elijah’s thinking; the prophet was not alone. Earlier he had forgotten the 100 prophets protected by Obadiah (18:4, 13). Now he learned that there were 7,000 others who remained faithful to the Lord. • bowed down . . . or kissed him: These common forms of submission in the ancient Near East (2 Kgs 21:3; Isa 46:6; 60:14; Hos 13:2) are often mentioned in the annals of victorious kings or in the ancient epics. Ashurbanipal reported that on his sixth campaign, an Elamite king kissed his royal feet and tidied up the ground with his beard. In the Mesopotamian creation epic (Enuma Elish, V 86), even the great gods bowed down and kissed the feet of Marduk, the victorious head of the pantheon.
1 Kings 19:18
The LORD Speaks to Elijah at Horeb
17Then Jehu will put to death whoever escapes the sword of Hazael, and Elisha will put to death whoever escapes the sword of Jehu. 18Nevertheless, I have reserved seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed to Baal and whose mouths have not kissed him.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Men Who Met God): Elijah - "The Lord Leviticus Before Whom I Stand"
By A.W. Tozer6.6K47:50Elijah1KI 18:211KI 18:401KI 19:91KI 19:111KI 19:181KI 19:21MAT 6:332TI 4:3HEB 11:6JAS 1:121PE 5:8REV 2:10REV 3:16In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of finding reality and how sin often prevents us from experiencing it. He explores the inner conflict within humans, where the divine nature clashes with the sinful nature. The preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the meaning behind hymns and not just singing them without comprehension. He challenges the audience to take action and not waste their time, urging them to seek the faith and courage of Elijah in standing before God.
Called to Be Christ-Like
By David Wilkerson5.5K49:20Christ Likeness1KI 19:18MAL 2:14MAT 22:37ROM 8:28ROM 11:21CO 3:16EPH 4:22In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a man who becomes jealous and angry when he sees others prospering financially while he struggles. The man declares that it is his turn to be prosperous and believes that it is his right according to the Bible. However, the preacher warns that God does not accept the man's ministry or worship because he has dealt treacherously with his wife. The preacher emphasizes the importance of repentance and encourages those who feel convicted to come forward for prayer and seek Christ-likeness in their lives.
Seven Thousand Did Not Bow
By David Wilkerson4.1K1:01:161KI 19:18MAT 7:13In this sermon, the preacher recounts the story of Elijah and the prophets of Baal. He describes how the prophets of Baal tried to awaken their god through their frenzy, but failed. Then, Elijah steps forward and calls upon the Lord, and fire falls from heaven, consuming not only the sacrifice but also the water poured on it. The preacher emphasizes the power and authority of God, highlighting how Elijah, despite being elderly, outran the king's chariot. He also discusses the difficulty for rich men to enter heaven, as they often struggle to identify with the despised and poor. The preacher concludes by urging the congregation to take up their cross and follow Jesus, emphasizing the importance of preaching the truth and not trying to sleep their way into heaven.
Revelation Overview Pt. 2
By Chuck Smith2.1K1:18:16Revelation1KI 19:18MAT 6:33REV 1:19REV 3:7REV 3:20REV 4:1In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the book of Revelation, specifically Revelation chapter 2. The key to understanding the book is found in Revelation 1:19, where it is instructed to write the things that have been seen, the things that are, and the things that will be after these things. The speaker emphasizes that we are currently in the final period of church history, represented by the church of Laodicea. The sermon also highlights the importance of remaining faithful and not defiling one's garments, as those who overcome will be clothed in white and have their names confessed before God.
(1 Kings) the Work of Unknown Prophets
By David Guzik1.5K49:401KI 19:182KI 6:18MAT 25:21In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of fulfilling the tasks and responsibilities that God has given us. He warns against the temptation of almost completing the work and encourages believers to strive for the full victory that the Lord desires for them. The preacher uses a story from the Bible to illustrate this point, where a prophet is unfaithful in guarding a prisoner and offers the excuse of being busy here and there. The sermon concludes with the reminder that God has a purpose for each individual and it is crucial to take our responsibilities seriously and not let opportunities escape us in the Christian life.
A Still Small Voice
By Charles Alexander1.5K36:57Voice Of GodGEN 18:251KI 19:18ISA 55:8ROM 8:28ROM 12:19GAL 6:71PE 5:7In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the wickedness that exists in the world and the mystery of God's ways. He acknowledges that even the best of men can be driven to despair by the sinfulness around them. The preacher emphasizes the importance of God's restraining hand in preventing us from committing cruel acts and sinning. He shares a personal story from his grandmother about the potential for unguarded moments to lead to terrible consequences. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the fall of man and the hidden depths of our hearts, urging us to be aware of our capacity to harm others.
When You Would Rather Die Then Live
By Carter Conlon1.3K31:26Faith1KI 19:18PRO 18:24JER 1:5MAT 11:28ROM 3:23HEB 10:25JAS 4:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God and leaving behind our old ways. He encourages the audience to recognize that without God, they are limited and fall short of His glory. However, by allowing God to take over, they can receive the strength and guidance needed to fulfill their purpose and have a profound influence on others. The preacher also addresses the loneliness that many people feel, particularly in a bustling city like New York, and offers the message of hope and love that comes from a relationship with God.
Distress of Elijah
By W.F. Anderson77042:42GEN 24:14RUT 1:161KI 18:211KI 19:181CO 2:3GAL 6:2JAS 5:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of leaving biblical history as it is and not spiritualizing it. He encourages listeners to see the working of God in ordinary, everyday human life. The speaker also mentions the Mount of Transfiguration as a mountaintop experience that disciples had only once, but emphasizes the importance of obeying what was learned there. The sermon also references a story from the Bible about a servant looking for a wife and highlights the qualities he was seeking, including a hard-working and courteous woman.
God Is Still in Control
By Theodore Epp0Hope in DespairGod's Sovereignty1KI 19:18PSA 46:10ISA 41:10MAT 28:20ROM 8:311CO 10:13EPH 1:11PHP 4:13HEB 13:52PE 1:3Theodore Epp emphasizes that, like Elijah, we may feel isolated and overwhelmed by the challenges of faith, questioning the purpose of our efforts in a world that seems to oppose God. He reassures us that God remains sovereign and has preserved a faithful remnant, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles. Epp encourages believers to resist despair and to listen for God's still, small voice, which offers hope and assurance of His control over all circumstances. He highlights that all we need for life and godliness is found in God, who has made every provision for us. Ultimately, we are called to trust in God's plan and purpose, knowing that He works all things according to His will.
The Value and Responsibility of One Life
By J.R. Miller0Faithfulness in DutyIndividual Responsibility1KI 19:18MAT 5:14ROM 14:12GAL 6:5J.R. Miller emphasizes the profound value and responsibility of each individual life in his sermon, drawing parallels to Elijah's stand for God amidst widespread apostasy. He illustrates that, like Elijah, each person is uniquely positioned to fulfill their divine purpose, and their faithfulness can prevent moral ruin in their surroundings. Miller warns against the complacency of thinking our actions are insignificant, reminding us that even the smallest efforts can have monumental consequences. He encourages listeners to focus on their own responsibilities rather than judging others, as each life is accountable for its own choices and duties. Ultimately, the sermon calls for diligence and commitment to God's work, as our lives may be the only barrier against disaster for others.
Are You Among the 7000?
By David Wilkerson0God's RemnantHope in Christ1KI 19:18PSA 37:39ISA 40:31MAT 25:40LUK 6:20ROM 12:22CO 5:171TH 4:16HEB 10:23REV 21:4David Wilkerson emphasizes the significance of being part of God's remnant, as illustrated by the 7000 faithful individuals mentioned in 1 Kings 19:18. He outlines three key characteristics of this remnant: a steadfast commitment to the Lord despite societal pressures, a compassionate identification with the poor, and a hopeful reliance on the promise of Christ's return. Wilkerson challenges believers to reflect on whether they embody these traits, encouraging them to remain focused on God and actively engage in evangelism and ministry. Ultimately, he reassures that those who are wholly devoted to God are recognized and cherished by Him.
Alone? - Not Alone!
By T. Austin-Sparks01KI 18:221KI 19:101KI 19:18PSA 139:7MAT 18:20JHN 8:441CO 12:12EPH 4:3HEB 13:5JAS 5:17T. Austin-Sparks preaches on the importance of acknowledging and learning from the weaknesses of great servants of God like Elijah, Moses, David, and Peter, emphasizing that God's grace shines through their imperfections. He highlights how Satan targets our weakest moments to hinder our spiritual growth and service, urging believers to be aware of their vulnerabilities and not make excuses for their weaknesses. The sermon also explores the theme of loneliness in leadership, noting that those called to pioneer spiritual advancements often walk a lonely path, but reassuring that God's love, presence, and the unity of believers provide comfort and strength in times of solitude.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Seven thousand in Israel - That is, many thousands; for seven is a number of perfection, as we have often seen: so, The barren has borne seven - has had a numerous off-spring; Gold seven times purified - purified till all the dross is perfectly separated from it. The court and multitudes of the people had gone after Baal; but perhaps the majority of the common people still worshipped in secret the God of their fathers. Every mouth which hath not kissed him - Idolaters often kissed their hand in honor of their idols; and hence the origin of adoration - bringing the hand to the mouth after touching the idol, if it were within reach; and if not, kissing the right hand in token of respect and subjection. The word is compounded of ad, to, and os, oris, the mouth. Dextera manu deum contingentes, ori admovebant: "Touching the god with their right hand, they applied it to their mouth." So kissing the hand, and adoration, mean the same thing - Thus Pliny, Inter adorandum, dexteram ad osculum referimus, totum corpus circumagimus: Nat. Hist. lib. xxviii., cap. 2. - "In the act of adoration we kiss the right hand, and turn about the whole body." Cicero mentions a statue of Hercules, the chin and lips of which were considerably worn by the frequent kissing of his worshippers: Ut rictus ejus, et mentum paulo sit attritius, quod in precibus et gratulationibus, non solum id venerari, sed etiam osculari solent. - Orat. in Verrem. I have seen several instances of this, especially in the paintings of old saints: the lips and mouth of beautiful paintings literally worn away by the unmerciful osculations of devotees.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Yet I have left me seven thousand in Israel,.... From perishing by the sword of either of them: all the knees which have not bowed to Baal; that is, had not worshipped him, which was signified by this gesture: and every mouth which hath not kissed him; either the image of Baal itself, or the hand, in reverence of him; which rites, one or other, or both, were used by his worshippers; See Gill on Hos 13:2. This either refers, as some think, to the present time, and so is an answer to Elijah, who thought he was the only worshipper left with which seems to agree Rom 11:2, or to the times to come, when destruction should be made by the above persons, and when God would have some faithful worshippers, and would take care of them; so some render the words, "I will reserve", &c. (y). (y) "reservabo vel servabo", Vatablus; so V. L. Pagninus, Montanus, Tigurine version.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
19:18 The Lord corrected Elijah’s thinking; the prophet was not alone. Earlier he had forgotten the 100 prophets protected by Obadiah (18:4, 13). Now he learned that there were 7,000 others who remained faithful to the Lord. • bowed down . . . or kissed him: These common forms of submission in the ancient Near East (2 Kgs 21:3; Isa 46:6; 60:14; Hos 13:2) are often mentioned in the annals of victorious kings or in the ancient epics. Ashurbanipal reported that on his sixth campaign, an Elamite king kissed his royal feet and tidied up the ground with his beard. In the Mesopotamian creation epic (Enuma Elish, V 86), even the great gods bowed down and kissed the feet of Marduk, the victorious head of the pantheon.