1 Kings 18:1 Meaning and Explanation
“And it came to pass after many days, that the word of the LORD came to Elijah in the third year, saying, Go, shew thyself unto Ahab; and I will send rain upon the earth.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →After years of drought, the LORD commands Elijah to present himself to Ahab, promising to send rain at last.
What Does 1 Kings 18:1 Mean?
The drought Elijah announced has gripped the land for three long years. Now, in its third year, the word of the LORD comes again to the prophet who has been hidden away. The command is bold: go out of hiding and stand before the very king who has been hunting him.
Rain will come, but only after Elijah obeys. God ties His promise of mercy to the prophet's costly act of faith. The same voice that sent Elijah into hiding now sends him into danger, and he goes. To walk with God is to move at His word, trusting that the One who commands the storm will also keep His promise of grace.
1 Kings 18:1 in the Original Language
dabar (דָּבָר), 'word' -- the term means both the spoken message and the deed it accomplishes; God's word carries out what it says.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Kings 18:1
What does 1 Kings 18:1 mean?
After years of drought, the LORD commands Elijah to present himself to Ahab, promising to send rain at last.