1 Kings 17:13
And Elijah said unto her, Fear not; go and do as thou hast said: but make me thereof a little cake first, and bring it unto me, and after make for thee and for thy son.
1 Kings 17:13 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of 1 Kings, Elijah, a prophet of God, encounters a widow who is preparing to make her last meal for herself and her son before they succumb to starvation. When the widow expresses her fear and desperation, Elijah reassures her, telling her not to be afraid and to go ahead with her plan. However, he then asks her to first make a small cake for him and bring it to him before making food for herself and her son. This seemingly selfish request is actually a test of the widow's faith and obedience to God. By asking for the first portion of her meal, Elijah is challenging the widow to prioritize serving God and trusting in His provision over her own immediate needs. Ultimately, the widow follows Elijah's instructions, demonstrating her faith and obedience, and miraculously, her jar of flour and jug of oil do not run out, providing sustenance for her family throughout the famine. This verse serves as a lesson in faith, obedience, and the blessing that comes from putting God first in all aspects of our lives.
Theological Overview
In this verse from 1 Kings 17:13, Elijah instructs the widow of Zarephath to make him a small cake first before making food for herself and her son. The theological interpretation of this verse reveals a lesson in faith and trust in God's provision. Elijah's request demonstrates the importance of prioritizing God's servants and trusting that by honoring them, blessings will follow. This act of giving to God's chosen messenger first before attending to one's own needs symbolizes putting God first in all aspects of life. Additionally, this verse can be seen as a test of the widow's faith and obedience to God's commandments, as well as a demonstration of God's faithfulness in providing for those who trust in Him. Through word study, the significance of the widow's act of hospitality and generosity towards a stranger like Elijah can be emphasized, highlighting the importance of caring for others and showing kindness even in times of scarcity.
1 Kings 17:13 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Elijah said unto her, Fear not; go and do as thou hast said; but make me thereof a little cake first, and bring it forth unto me, and afterward make for thee and for thy son.
World English Bible
Elijah said to her, “Don’t be afraid. Go and do as you have said; but make me of it a little cake first, and bring it out to me, and afterward make some for you and for your son.
Douay-Rheims
And Elias said to her: Fear not; but go, and do as thou hast said but first make for me of the same meal a little hearth cake, and bring it to me, and after make for thyself and thy son.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Eliiah said vnto her, Feare not, come, do as thou hast sayd, but make me thereof a litle cake first of all, and bring it vnto mee, and afterward make for thee, and thy sonne.