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These Are the Days of Elijah: How God Uses Ordinary People to Do Extraordinary Things
Bestselling Author and Theologian Explores
the Life and Ministry of Elijah
Known for his in-depth yet accessible teaching, beloved author R. T. Kendall delves into the life of one of the most famous and most relatable persons in the Old Elijah.
Drawn from a popular sermon series Dr. Kendall preached at Westminster Chapel in London, this discussion taken from 1 and 2 Kings traces the prophet's life and ministry from his first appearance and his confrontation with King Ahab until the time he is taken up to heaven. Kendall shows how even this revered prophet--an ordinary man with many imperfections--was used tremendously by God. A great study for both individuals and groups.
the Life and Ministry of Elijah
Known for his in-depth yet accessible teaching, beloved author R. T. Kendall delves into the life of one of the most famous and most relatable persons in the Old Elijah.
Drawn from a popular sermon series Dr. Kendall preached at Westminster Chapel in London, this discussion taken from 1 and 2 Kings traces the prophet's life and ministry from his first appearance and his confrontation with King Ahab until the time he is taken up to heaven. Kendall shows how even this revered prophet--an ordinary man with many imperfections--was used tremendously by God. A great study for both individuals and groups.
192 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
May 22, 2013
About the Book:
God used Elijah to accomplish great things--and He can use you, too.
Elijah is marked as one of the greatest prophets of the Bible. More than a gifted seer, he spoke directly for God, and with His authority. Elijah is the only prophet to have called down fire from heaven, and one of only two individuals in Scripture taken to heaven before tasting death. Yet this remarkable agent of the Lord was also very human, afflicted with the very same failings and fears you have.
With keen insight and practical application, beloved theologian and teacher R. T. Kendall explores the triumphs and contradictions of this powerful man of God. You will love seeing how Elijah was like you--righteous but proud, strong but cowardly, blessed but tested by trial and doubt.
And you will take joy in realizing how God will use you, as He did Elijah, for His perfect glory.
About the Author:
Dr. R. T. Kendall, a graduate of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and Oxford University (D.Phil.), was the senior minister of the historic Westminster Chapel in London for 25 years. The author of numerous bestselling books, he conducts conferences throughout the world. He and his wife, Louise, now live in Hendersonville, Tennessee. Visit rtkendallministries.com
My Review:
This book is an excellent resource on the prophet Elijah. Elijah was much like you and me but yet was set apart for many great and wonderful things done solely to glorify God. I see alot of similarities in some of the things Elijah done and the things that Jesus accomplished. Don't know if there is a connection there it was just something I noticed. Elijah was a very notable character in the Old Testament.
He was one of the two human beings that was taken to Heaven before he had a chance to actually die. He killed 850 false prophets only to be afraid of the one and only Jezebel. Those two facts alone; about him, interest me probably more than any other prophet in the Bible. The author has taken what we learned from Elijah and all he proclaimed in his day and applied it to today and what we should consider and look for in the days leading up to Christ's return.
The author has also mentions Elisha which came after Elijah to finish the work that Elijah started. But he is described as being even more powerful than the former prophet. If you are interested in learning more about this book you can do so here.
**Disclosure**I received this book for free for my honest review from Bethany House/Chosen Publishing Group
God used Elijah to accomplish great things--and He can use you, too.
Elijah is marked as one of the greatest prophets of the Bible. More than a gifted seer, he spoke directly for God, and with His authority. Elijah is the only prophet to have called down fire from heaven, and one of only two individuals in Scripture taken to heaven before tasting death. Yet this remarkable agent of the Lord was also very human, afflicted with the very same failings and fears you have.
With keen insight and practical application, beloved theologian and teacher R. T. Kendall explores the triumphs and contradictions of this powerful man of God. You will love seeing how Elijah was like you--righteous but proud, strong but cowardly, blessed but tested by trial and doubt.
And you will take joy in realizing how God will use you, as He did Elijah, for His perfect glory.
About the Author:
Dr. R. T. Kendall, a graduate of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and Oxford University (D.Phil.), was the senior minister of the historic Westminster Chapel in London for 25 years. The author of numerous bestselling books, he conducts conferences throughout the world. He and his wife, Louise, now live in Hendersonville, Tennessee. Visit rtkendallministries.com
My Review:
This book is an excellent resource on the prophet Elijah. Elijah was much like you and me but yet was set apart for many great and wonderful things done solely to glorify God. I see alot of similarities in some of the things Elijah done and the things that Jesus accomplished. Don't know if there is a connection there it was just something I noticed. Elijah was a very notable character in the Old Testament.
He was one of the two human beings that was taken to Heaven before he had a chance to actually die. He killed 850 false prophets only to be afraid of the one and only Jezebel. Those two facts alone; about him, interest me probably more than any other prophet in the Bible. The author has taken what we learned from Elijah and all he proclaimed in his day and applied it to today and what we should consider and look for in the days leading up to Christ's return.
The author has also mentions Elisha which came after Elijah to finish the work that Elijah started. But he is described as being even more powerful than the former prophet. If you are interested in learning more about this book you can do so here.
**Disclosure**I received this book for free for my honest review from Bethany House/Chosen Publishing Group
January 16, 2014
I received a copy of this book through the Goodreads Giveaway contest.
Elijah is one of the most important prophets in the Old Testament. He is revered by jews and Christians alike. He did some of some of the greatest miracles in the Bible and was one of the greatest servants of God. He is only known by his deeds. There is nothing known about his personal life, whether he was married or not. He is an intersting and complicated character.
The author does not take a scholarly look at Elijah, by trying to figure out where he came from and other details of his life. This book looks at the deeds of Elijah and how they can apply to the world now. Each chapter is based on a significant event in Elijah life as told in the Bible. The author is a preacher and he based the book on a series of sermaons he did.
I would recommend that anyone reading this book, read a chapter a day to fully contemplate and understand what the author is trying to get across.
I enjoyed the book. This was not a hard read. I read it in a couple of day. If I had the time, I could have done it one.
Elijah is one of the most important prophets in the Old Testament. He is revered by jews and Christians alike. He did some of some of the greatest miracles in the Bible and was one of the greatest servants of God. He is only known by his deeds. There is nothing known about his personal life, whether he was married or not. He is an intersting and complicated character.
The author does not take a scholarly look at Elijah, by trying to figure out where he came from and other details of his life. This book looks at the deeds of Elijah and how they can apply to the world now. Each chapter is based on a significant event in Elijah life as told in the Bible. The author is a preacher and he based the book on a series of sermaons he did.
I would recommend that anyone reading this book, read a chapter a day to fully contemplate and understand what the author is trying to get across.
I enjoyed the book. This was not a hard read. I read it in a couple of day. If I had the time, I could have done it one.
December 11, 2013
In drawing from the life of Elijah, Kendall writes about how God prepares a person for ministry. Some of the lessons highlighted include: never underestimate how God might supply your need, you will probably feel deserted by God sometime. This is a good book for relatively new Christians who feel that God wants to use them. The Bible passages are included so this book can be read anywhere. See my full review at http://bit.ly/1dqHZQE.
July 4, 2021
The more I delve into the life of Elijah, the more I see how contradictory he was. So I was pleased to see this thought in the foreword by John Paul Jackson: Elijah was a paradox, a walking contradiction of foresight and blindness, faith and fear, power and weakness. He killed 850 false prophets, yet ran from one woman. He demanded that a dying widow feed him before she fed herself and her son, yet years later raised that son from the dead. Egocentrically he complained to God that he alone was left, and God had to burst that bubble by telling him that there were seven thousand others who had not bowed their knees to Baal. He complained of hunger, ate food brought to him by ravens and walked two hundred miles on Mount Sinai after eating one loaf of bread that an angel baked for him.
Kendall makes an important distinction between prophecy at oath level (that is, "infallible assurance") and prophecy of conditional promises. (p 17ff)
He also outlines how to discern an effectual calling in another person and the faith-risk involved. (p 53)
Three phases of relationship according to Gerald Coates: veneer, disillusionment, reality. (p 57)
Coates says the curse of our generation is the desire to be understood. (p 61)
Elijah's claim that he was the only one left is inexcusable. Godly people in ungodly places (such as Obadiah) need a lot of wisdom. There is a time to shout our witness, there is also a time to protect our testimony in silence. (p 69)
The conversation between Obadiah and Elijah shows that Ahab was obsessed with Elijah - instead of turning to God, he was so angry with Elijah he would kill a messenger who didn't get it right about Elijah's whereabouts. (p 73)
"It is difficult to get a man to understand something if his salary depends on his not understanding." Upton Sinclair (p 74)
Elijah's statement that he was the only one left showed contempt for Obadiah, and for the hundred prophets he was protecting. Elijah basically said that he was the only prophet who mattered. (p 88)
Idolatry leads to self-abuse. (p 95)
The shedding of blood must come before the descent of fire. (p 98)
Jezebel used oath level language to Elijah as he had once used oath level prophecy to Ahab. (p112)
"Apart from the gracious anointing of the Holy Spirit we are all weak, fragile, mortal and pitiful. It is said of King Hezekiah that the Lord "left him to test him, and to know everything that was in his heart" (2 Chronicles 32:31). In his final days Hezekiah proved himself to be less than heroic (see Isaiah 39:5-8). We are all children of dust. The godliest of men are men at best." (p116)
Elijah's comment, "I am no better than my ancestors" reveals that he wanted to be better, he wanted to be the best, the perfect one. Indicative of ego. (p127)
Elijah's comment, "I am the only one left," reveals self-importance coming from self-righteousness. (p138)
The "Elijah complex": feeling we are the only one standing for truth. Born out of self-righteousness and self-pity. Perhaps a combination of inferiority complex, superiority complex, persecution complex and messianic complex. (p140)
Elijah pulled his cloak over his face because he knew he was in the presence of God. Just as the seraphim's wings covered their faces. (p146)
God does not always raise up successors. Joshua had none. Samuel had none. Elisha had none. (p150)
When Ahaziah sends a troop to bring Elijah to him, the fire falling from heaven should have warned the king that God would vindicate Elijah. (p162)
Kendall makes an important distinction between prophecy at oath level (that is, "infallible assurance") and prophecy of conditional promises. (p 17ff)
He also outlines how to discern an effectual calling in another person and the faith-risk involved. (p 53)
Three phases of relationship according to Gerald Coates: veneer, disillusionment, reality. (p 57)
Coates says the curse of our generation is the desire to be understood. (p 61)
Elijah's claim that he was the only one left is inexcusable. Godly people in ungodly places (such as Obadiah) need a lot of wisdom. There is a time to shout our witness, there is also a time to protect our testimony in silence. (p 69)
The conversation between Obadiah and Elijah shows that Ahab was obsessed with Elijah - instead of turning to God, he was so angry with Elijah he would kill a messenger who didn't get it right about Elijah's whereabouts. (p 73)
"It is difficult to get a man to understand something if his salary depends on his not understanding." Upton Sinclair (p 74)
Elijah's statement that he was the only one left showed contempt for Obadiah, and for the hundred prophets he was protecting. Elijah basically said that he was the only prophet who mattered. (p 88)
Idolatry leads to self-abuse. (p 95)
The shedding of blood must come before the descent of fire. (p 98)
Jezebel used oath level language to Elijah as he had once used oath level prophecy to Ahab. (p112)
"Apart from the gracious anointing of the Holy Spirit we are all weak, fragile, mortal and pitiful. It is said of King Hezekiah that the Lord "left him to test him, and to know everything that was in his heart" (2 Chronicles 32:31). In his final days Hezekiah proved himself to be less than heroic (see Isaiah 39:5-8). We are all children of dust. The godliest of men are men at best." (p116)
Elijah's comment, "I am no better than my ancestors" reveals that he wanted to be better, he wanted to be the best, the perfect one. Indicative of ego. (p127)
Elijah's comment, "I am the only one left," reveals self-importance coming from self-righteousness. (p138)
The "Elijah complex": feeling we are the only one standing for truth. Born out of self-righteousness and self-pity. Perhaps a combination of inferiority complex, superiority complex, persecution complex and messianic complex. (p140)
Elijah pulled his cloak over his face because he knew he was in the presence of God. Just as the seraphim's wings covered their faces. (p146)
God does not always raise up successors. Joshua had none. Samuel had none. Elisha had none. (p150)
When Ahaziah sends a troop to bring Elijah to him, the fire falling from heaven should have warned the king that God would vindicate Elijah. (p162)
May 24, 2017
New insights on old stories. Well worth the read. Dr. Kindall brings old testament miracles to bear on modern life. Possibilites unlimited. Faith building, inspiring, and heart-searching. Healing words for tough times!
June 3, 2017
These are the days off Elijah
Beautifully written. His book is quite anointed as well as the man. It is a very deep book but I simply could not stop reading it. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Beautifully written. His book is quite anointed as well as the man. It is a very deep book but I simply could not stop reading it. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
April 7, 2019
Elijah accomplished life changing moments through his prophetic life. With understanding of his ideas & life of a very human man, this book will allow others to see just how important the gift of prophesy is.
August 27, 2025
Genuinely enjoyed. I did not agree with everything in the book that was said, but I enjoyed the case study on Elijah and hope to read more of his works if they are like this. Would highly recommend if you want to understand the dynamic between someone and their relationship with God.
September 26, 2019
This is a pretty good study of Elijah. Though the theology is a bit dated and conservative in nature it still offers some good analysis and some interesting questions for thought and study.
September 26, 2021
Great reliving and retelling of Elijah the prophet's life and calling. RT reminds us of the parallels we are experiencing in our own lives as we are called as well to live into God's story.
February 5, 2022
I absolutely loved this book. I have already ordered more books from the author!
August 30, 2024
Once again, Reverend Kendall gets right to the point. His inside is truly amazing. This is a book to reread numerous times.
April 24, 2025
good book it builds you're faith.
May 17, 2013
Several months ago, I read this article, which asked the question, "Did Elijah and Enoch really not die?" Which is a good question. Did the Bible really say they didn't die, or did it say something that implied that. After all, it's appointed for all men once to die and then have judgement (Hebrews 9:27,28), so how could Elijah and Enoch avoid their destiny?
That question made me curious as to the details of Elijah. Yes, I've read about Elijah so many times - as a child and as an adult - but now that I am in the reasoning/seeking/true learning stage of my life, trying to piece things together in Scripture, I am more eager to see what Scripture really says and means. Especially after reading this: "No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man." John 3:13 ESV What? Then where are Enoch and Elijah?
Those questions and thoughts were the reasons I decided to read and review These Are the Days of Elijah, by R.T. Kendall. I needed a refresher on Elijah's life as told in Scripture.
This book about Elijah goes through several verses of Scripture regarding Elijah and his journey per chapter. It starts out when Elijah is suddenly made known in the Bible, and ends after he's gone via a chariot of fire, leaving one Elisha alone. I got to read the real deal and get explanations on each phase of his recorded life.
Although this refresher on Elijah is exactly what I wanted and needed, I didn't love that each chapter didn't just end with the explanation of each portion of Scripture. Kendall used his book as a witnessing opportunity. There is nothing wrong with him doing that, and since he's the author, he can do as he pleases. But, I found that part after each chapter a bit much, and not appreciated, since it seemed contrary to the point of the book.
All that to say, I enjoyed this book for its purpose, and I'm glad to have read it.
I received this book for free from Chosen Books in exchange for an honest review, of which I've given.
That question made me curious as to the details of Elijah. Yes, I've read about Elijah so many times - as a child and as an adult - but now that I am in the reasoning/seeking/true learning stage of my life, trying to piece things together in Scripture, I am more eager to see what Scripture really says and means. Especially after reading this: "No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man." John 3:13 ESV What? Then where are Enoch and Elijah?
Those questions and thoughts were the reasons I decided to read and review These Are the Days of Elijah, by R.T. Kendall. I needed a refresher on Elijah's life as told in Scripture.
This book about Elijah goes through several verses of Scripture regarding Elijah and his journey per chapter. It starts out when Elijah is suddenly made known in the Bible, and ends after he's gone via a chariot of fire, leaving one Elisha alone. I got to read the real deal and get explanations on each phase of his recorded life.
Although this refresher on Elijah is exactly what I wanted and needed, I didn't love that each chapter didn't just end with the explanation of each portion of Scripture. Kendall used his book as a witnessing opportunity. There is nothing wrong with him doing that, and since he's the author, he can do as he pleases. But, I found that part after each chapter a bit much, and not appreciated, since it seemed contrary to the point of the book.
All that to say, I enjoyed this book for its purpose, and I'm glad to have read it.
I received this book for free from Chosen Books in exchange for an honest review, of which I've given.
March 31, 2014
In many ways Elijah was an ordinary man, however, he lived in extraordinary time in Israel history, he believed and witnessed a extraordinary holy God that left him undone. Each chapter starts with a scripture in Elijah's life and how it applies with us today by showing Christ and his redemption. Elijah dealing with a evil King who came from the line of David and his wife, who worshipped other gods who were leading God's people to death is a great example for us today as a warning and as a encouragement.
The warnings for us is to know the Lord your God. Elijah warning to King Ahab and to the people of Israel was complete and left no question that it was from God. Know that the Lord is holy, humble yourself and see your pride for what it really is.
The encouragement comes in the form that Elijah was often misunderstood and at many times in his minstry felt alone, that he was the only one. There is much insight in this study that I really appreciate and if you are one that likes the study of Old Testament prophets, you too, will appreciate how God walked with Elijah during this time of depression. Elijah's zeal for the Lord and the complancey of God's people was a great tension for Elijah and caused him some despair in spite of all that God did which I think is true for us today. Resting in who He is, is so needed for our souls.
The warnings for us is to know the Lord your God. Elijah warning to King Ahab and to the people of Israel was complete and left no question that it was from God. Know that the Lord is holy, humble yourself and see your pride for what it really is.
The encouragement comes in the form that Elijah was often misunderstood and at many times in his minstry felt alone, that he was the only one. There is much insight in this study that I really appreciate and if you are one that likes the study of Old Testament prophets, you too, will appreciate how God walked with Elijah during this time of depression. Elijah's zeal for the Lord and the complancey of God's people was a great tension for Elijah and caused him some despair in spite of all that God did which I think is true for us today. Resting in who He is, is so needed for our souls.
July 11, 2013
This book is about the life of Elijah from the Bible. There are numerous life lessons using stories from his life covering a wide variety of situations.
These didn’t seem like mere words or teachings but they are anointed with the fire of the author’s experiences. I found Dr. Kendall to be extremely wise, transparent and open.
The author does not compromise. He “tells it like it is”. That is refreshing.
He includes lots of thought provoking questions and lots of what I like to call prayer fodder.
Since the life lessons include such a wide variety of circumstances and this author is his usual very wise self, I find it hard to imagine that anyone would not find at least one gem of wisdom for themselves in this book.
To purchase your own copy of this book go here: These Are the Days of Elijah: How God Uses Ordinary People to Do Extraordinary Things
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Chosen Publishers as part of their blogging for books program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
These didn’t seem like mere words or teachings but they are anointed with the fire of the author’s experiences. I found Dr. Kendall to be extremely wise, transparent and open.
The author does not compromise. He “tells it like it is”. That is refreshing.
He includes lots of thought provoking questions and lots of what I like to call prayer fodder.
Since the life lessons include such a wide variety of circumstances and this author is his usual very wise self, I find it hard to imagine that anyone would not find at least one gem of wisdom for themselves in this book.
To purchase your own copy of this book go here: These Are the Days of Elijah: How God Uses Ordinary People to Do Extraordinary Things
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Chosen Publishers as part of their blogging for books program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
May 7, 2013
Elijah a true ”Man of God” was just that a man that was blessed by God to follow God so closely that Elijah was taken from the earth without a grave to be found. Elijah did what God wanted but he had his moments when fear would get in the way and he would try to do things in the flesh. Elijah's life was blessed for sure, but as the story goes God's anointing that was given to Elijah is available to all of us that seek God's will with all of our being and put God first. Elijah was frail and “made from dust' but he set the example of a person that loved God with all his heart and that evil still lurks around every corner and will try to derail anyone even tries to get close to God. Queen Jezebel threatened Elijah's life but God took control and kept Elijah safe until It was time for Elijah to go home to Jesus.
This is an awesome story about How anyone can do what Elijah did you just have to believe.
With God all things are Possible.
I received this book for free from Chosen Books for an honest review.
This is an awesome story about How anyone can do what Elijah did you just have to believe.
With God all things are Possible.
I received this book for free from Chosen Books for an honest review.
December 11, 2015
Great book by R T Kendall (Total Forgiveness and more than 50 other books). Elijah was one of the greatest prophets. Yet also very much a human, afflicted and tested like all of us. But just as God used an ordinary man as Elijah, he is also able and willing to use you and me.
Good theology and encouraging message.
Good theology and encouraging message.
January 16, 2015
R.T. Kendall did a great job of introducing the reader to an amazing man of God, who was flawed just like the rest of us. How comforting to know that we don't have to be perfect to be used by God... just willing.
May 21, 2016
Very good book, about Elijah and how he was ordinary, but was a most impressive prophet. We are also ordinary and can become closer to God and do his will.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews