Work

• Lawton, William James (1934-)

• 1977

• Moore Theological College

• Lawton on Elijah and God’s Question. Twice God asks Elijah why he was there, and Lawton poses the same question to the theological student. The Lord’s insistent question comes after Elijah’s dramatic contest with the prophets of Baal. In Israel’s history, fire often symbolised God’s presence, glory, and judgment: in Leviticus 9:24 fire consumed the offering; in Numbers 11:1 and 16:5 fire brought judgment; and in Judges 6:13 fire signified God’s response to Gideon. For Elijah’s contemporaries, such fire was a reminder that the Lord of the universe was in their midst. After this mighty display, Elijah sought God’s presence, but he still had more to learn. Lawton draws parallels with Zacchaeus, whom Jesus questioned and commissioned, teaching him that the Son of Man came to seek and save the lost. Likewise, Saul was confronted by God and sent to the Gentiles. In each case, God’s question pressed for obedience and mission. For theological students, the same truth applies: religion is not the mere accumulation of ideas, nor should it be shaped by false witnesses like the prophets of Baal. Instead, believers are called to a passion for the world, as Elijah was commanded at the close of 1 Kings 19: to go and declare God’s word.

• Elijah, (Biblical prophet)

• English

Empty

• Sound

• https://archives.moore.edu.au/documents/detail/225643 

• In copyright - educational use permitted. This item may be used for the purposes of research and study. Please acknowledge that it is held by Moore Theological College