Scripture Guide

1 Kings 19:1-15

Author

Geoff Helton

Keywords (10)

Scripture

1 Kings 19:1-15

Updated

Jul 1, 2025

Preaching Commentary

Context

In Chapter 18, Elijah was on Mount Carmel, confronting and taunting the 450 prophets of Baal when Baal didn’t (or couldn’t) answer their prayers and send down fire. Baal must have been sleeping, or on vacation, or something… But Yahweh did answer Elijah’s prayers and the fire descends from heaven to consume his water-soaked offering. The people seize the prophets and Elijah kills them.

Earlier, in 17:1-7, Elijah had told King Ahab that there would be a drought and that there would be no rain or dew without his say so. But at the end of Chapter 18, Elijah tells Ahab that rain is coming: “Go up, eat and drink, for there is a sound of rushing rain.” The arrival of rain further confirms Elijah’s prophetic message and Yahweh’s…

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Author

Geoff Helton

Rev. Geoff Helton is an Ordained Elder in the Pacific Northwest Conference of the United Methodist Church and serves as the Lead Pastor at Audubon Park United Methodist Church in Spokane, WA. With a deep love for ministry and theological education, Geoff also teaches as an Adjunct Instructor in the Theology Department at Whitworth University, where he inspires students to engage critically and faithfully with biblical texts and theological concepts.

Geoff’s academic journey began at Whitworth University, where he earned a B.A. in Religion, laying a strong foundation for his theological studies. He continued his education at Princeton Theological Seminary, earning both a Master of Divinity (M.Div.) and a Master of Theology (Th.M.) in Old Testament. His advanced studies reflect his dedication to understanding Scripture in depth and his desire to equip others with the tools to do the same.

In his pastoral role, Geoff is committed to creating a vibrant and welcoming church community, encouraging spiritual growth and fostering a deep sense of connection within the congregation. He believes in the transformative power of faith, not only within the church but also as a force for good in the broader community.

Geoff and his wife, Meagan, share a fulfilling life together in Spokane, WA, where they are raising their two daughters, Elizabeth and Rebekah. As a devoted husband and father, Geoff values the importance of family and cherishes the opportunity to nurture faith and love within his own household.