One of the most striking features of 1–2 Kings is the parallels between Elijah and Jezebel. Phyllis Trible has noted numerous parallels between Elijah and Jezebel, arguing Elijah has received too much credit for his actions while Jezebel has received far too little. According to Trible, the author’s focus on Elijah rather than Jezebel is evidence of the author’s bias. This paper will re-examine the parallels between Elijah and Jezebel and argue the parallels are author-intended features of the text that demonstrate the need for covenant faithfulness and should shape the way preachers approach 1–2 Kings.
The first section of this paper will identify the parallels between Elijah and Jezebel in 1–2 Kings, drawing on the work of Trible and others. After demonstrating the existence of these parallels in 1–2 Kings, the second section will re-evaluate the function of the parallels, arguing the parallels reveal the need for covenant faithfulness and the reward of covenant faithfulness to the original readers. The third and final section of the paper will set forth a method for preaching these parallels, noting (1) the challenges involved in preaching the parallels, (2) the solution to these challenges, and (3) general principles for preaching the parallels in light of the overall message of 1–2 Kings.