1 Kings 18:13: “Haven’t you heard, my lord, what I did while Jezebel was killing the prophets of the Lord? I hid a hundred of the Lord’s prophets in two caves, fifty in each, and supplied them with food and water.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Obadiah reminds Elijah of the brave actions he took to protect God’s prophets when Jezebel was killing them. Obadiah had hidden one hundred prophets in two caves and provided them with food and water, risking his life in the process. His question, “Haven’t you heard,” suggests that he’s surprised Elijah might doubt his loyalty to God. Obadiah’s fear from previous verses is balanced here by his testimony of faithfulness and courage, revealing that even though he was afraid now, he had already demonstrated strong devotion to God.
Historical Context
At this time, Jezebel, Queen of Israel and wife to King Ahab, was actively persecuting the prophets of the Lord in an effort to establish the worship of Baal across the kingdom. Elijah had declared a drought, and in response, Ahab and Jezebel sought to kill him and eliminate any remaining prophets of the Lord. Obadiah, who served as a palace administrator under Ahab, used his position to secretly hide and protect one hundred prophets from Jezebel’s wrath. This was an extremely dangerous act because Jezebel had been ruthless in her pursuit of God’s prophets, making Obadiah’s actions a significant act of faith and courage.
Theological Implications
Obadiah’s actions highlight the theme of faithfulness in the face of danger. Despite working under a corrupt regime, Obadiah remained loyal to God and went to great lengths to protect His prophets. This reminds us that serving God often requires taking risks, especially when we are called to stand for truth in a hostile environment. Obadiah’s story also speaks to the reality that God uses people in all kinds of positions to accomplish His purposes. Even though Obadiah worked for an ungodly king, he still found ways to serve God and protect His people. This is a powerful reminder that God’s work is not limited by human systems of power.
Literary Analysis
Obadiah’s appeal to Elijah in this verse is personal and defensive. His words reflect a deep need to justify his fear and hesitation, but also to remind Elijah of his previous faithfulness. The structure of the verse, which recounts Obadiah’s actions in detail, emphasizes the danger and sacrifice involved in hiding the prophets. The phrase “while Jezebel was killing the prophets” adds a layer of tension, underscoring the peril that surrounded Obadiah’s actions. His reference to “fifty in each” gives the narrative a vivid sense of scale, illustrating just how much Obadiah had risked in providing for the prophets.
Biblical Cross-References
- 1 Kings 19:10: Elijah later expresses feeling alone, believing he is the last prophet of the Lord, even though Obadiah had saved a hundred, showing the isolation prophets often felt.
- Hebrews 11:32-34: This passage speaks of heroes of the faith who performed acts of courage, like Obadiah, showing that acts of faithfulness in difficult circumstances are part of the broader story of God’s people.
- Matthew 10:16: Jesus tells His disciples to be “as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves,” which reflects Obadiah’s wisdom in protecting the prophets while serving in a hostile environment.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s believer, this verse serves as a reminder that God calls us to stand firm in our faith, even when doing so may involve personal risk or danger. Obadiah’s courage in protecting the prophets is an example of using one’s position and resources to further God’s work, even in hostile circumstances. This teaches that faithfulness often requires both courage and wisdom. It encourages Christians to look for opportunities to serve God and protect others, even in places where it seems difficult or dangerous. It also reminds us that God can use us in any situation, regardless of our role or environment.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in how He preserves His people, even during times of great persecution. Though Jezebel sought to destroy the prophets of the Lord, God provided protection for them through Obadiah’s actions. This verse shows that God cares deeply for His servants and will raise up faithful people to protect and support them in times of need. God’s love doesn’t always remove us from danger, but He works through His people to provide support and refuge when we need it most. Obadiah’s story is a testament to God’s enduring care for His faithful ones, even when evil seems overwhelming.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Obadiah’s actions in protecting the prophets mirror the role Jesus plays as our protector and advocate. Just as Obadiah risked his life to save God’s prophets, Jesus gave His life to save humanity from sin and death. Obadiah’s willingness to hide the prophets from Jezebel’s persecution also reflects Jesus’ role as our refuge, shielding us from the ultimate consequences of sin. Jesus provides spiritual protection, offering eternal life and safety in God’s presence. Obadiah’s story points forward to Christ’s greater act of salvation, where He laid down His life to protect and redeem us (John 10:11).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever been in a situation where you had to stand up for your faith or protect others, even at personal risk? How did God guide you through it?
- How can Obadiah’s example of faithfulness and courage encourage you to trust God’s protection and provision, even in hostile environments?
- What opportunities might God be giving you to serve Him, even in challenging situations? How can you use your position or resources to help further God’s work?