Preparation at Kerite – Preaching
Preaching Outline on 1 Kings 17:2-3 – “Then the word of the Lord came to Elijah, saying, “Get out of here, go east, and hide by the brook Cherith, which is east of the Jordan.”
Introduction to 1 Kings 17:2-3
The prophet Elijah appeared at a time of spiritual crisis in Israel, when the people had turned away from the true God to follow idolatry and practices contrary to the covenant. In the midst of this chaos, God calls Elijah to be an instrument in his hands. However, before using him on a large scale, God takes him to the brook Cherith, a place of isolation and preparation.
The Kerite was not just a physical hiding place, but a spiritual space where God would shape Elijah to fulfill his mission. So it is with us too: the process of preparation is essential if we are to be effective instruments in God’s work.
Development
The call and isolation
- The context of the call:
Elijah was called in difficult times, where courage and faithfulness to God were indispensable. His first mission was to announce a drought in the land, which put him in direct opposition to King Ahab and Queen Jezebel.Polylang placeholder do not modify
- Isolation at Cherith:
After the proclamation, God instructs Elijah to withdraw to the brook Cherith. In the original, “to hide” means “to prepare”. Even after being used with power, Elijah needed time to be shaped by God.Polylang placeholder do not modify
Isolation in Kerite symbolizes the moment when God separates us to work on us, adjusting areas of our lives that only He knows.
2. Querite: The place of adjustment and training
- “Kerite” means “Put on the Right Size”:
Elijah needed to be fitted to God’s measure before moving forward on his mission. God is not in a hurry, but works with perfection so that we are empowered at the right time.Polylang placeholder do not modify
- The Waiting Time:
Elijah spent about three years in Cherith. During this time, God sustained him with water from the brook and food brought by ravens. This period taught Elijah to depend exclusively on God.Polylang placeholder do not modify
Like Elijah, we too need a time of preparation. Sometimes we think we’re ready, but God, who knows us inside out, knows when there are still adjustments to be made.
3. The formation of the servant in Kerite
- God adjusts character:
In Kerite, God works on the character of the servant. He shapes our attitudes, strengthens our faith and teaches us to depend totally on Him.Polylang placeholder do not modify
- God proves faithfulness:
Elijah had to rely on God’s provision day after day. This time in Kerith was a test of faith, showing that the servant must not rely on his own strength, but on divine care.Polylang placeholder do not modify
- God strengthens for the future:
Elijah was being prepared to confront the prophets of Baal and perform great miracles, but this would only be possible after the period of training in the Cherith.
Kerite is the place where God forges great men and women for His work. Those who learn to trust God in isolation will be ready to face the challenges of the future.
Conclusion of 1 Kings 17:2-3
The brook Cherith was fundamental in Elijah’s life. There, he was adjusted to the right size, prepared to be one of the greatest prophets of the Old Testament.
Like Elijah, you may be going through your “Kerite” – a time of waiting, isolation or even frustration. But remember: God is working on you. He is adjusting your life, shaping your character and strengthening your faith so that, when the time is right, you will be ready to fulfill the purpose He has for you.
- Even if it takes a long time, God is never late. When you are “just the right size”, He will lift you up and use you powerfully
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- Kerite is not the end, but the beginning of God’s great plan. Allow Him to work in your life. Like Elijah, your time will come too!
Preaching Outline on 1 Kings 17:2-3 – “Then the word of the Lord came to Elijah, saying, “Get out of here, go east, and hide by the brook Cherith, which is east of the Jordan.”
More Preaching Outlines
- The formation of the Church – Genesis 2:24
- Elisha’s call – II Kings 2:1-7
- Elijah and the widow of Zarephath – I Kings 17:2-11
