This sermon is the first in a series on Elijah the Tishbite. The first mention of him and his service to God is in 1 Kings 17 where he announces a drought on the land of Israel. Elijah then is cared for by God first by ravens then by a widow. The account shows hardship is sometimes needed to bring repentance, trust in God during hard times, respect for God’s prophet, and more.
This Bible study looks at Abimelech in Judges 9. His rise to power was not due to God’s response to an oppressed people, but purely self-seeking arrogance. He murdered his own brothers to seize and hold his position, but was brought down when his subjects turned on him. Abimelech’s reign is short and violent; it is dark and a cautionary tale for all who would follow his path.