1 Kings 19-20:

Summary: In 1 Kings 19-20, the prophet Elijah, discouraged after his victory over the prophets of Baal, flees to Mount Horeb. There, God reveals Himself to Elijah in a still, small voice and encourages him to continue his prophetic mission. Meanwhile, King Ahab of Israel, under divine guidance, leads his people to victory over the Aramean king Ben-Hadad, who had besieged Samaria. Despite God's intervention, Ahab shows mercy to Ben-Hadad, which leads to a prophecy of his own demise.

Key People:

• Prophet Elijah
• King Ahab of Israel
• King Ben-Hadad of Aram
• A prophet of the Lord

Key Places:

• Mount Horeb
• Samaria

Key Events:

• Elijah's discouragement and flight to Mount Horeb
• God's revelation to Elijah in a still, small voice
• Israel's victory over the Arameans under King Ahab's leadership
• Ahab's mercy towards Ben-Hadad
• A prophecy of Ahab's demise

Questions to Consider:

1. How does God's revelation to Elijah in a still, small voice illustrate His gentle and comforting nature?
2. What lessons can be learned from Elijah's discouragement and God's encouragement?
3. Why was Ahab's mercy towards Ben-Hadad seen as a negative act, and what consequences did it have?

Luke 23:1-25:

Summary: In Luke 23:1-25, Jesus is brought before the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate, and King Herod for trial. Despite finding no fault in Jesus, Pilate succumbs to the pressure of the crowd and agrees to crucify Jesus while releasing the criminal Barabbas. This passage highlights the political and social factors that contributed to Jesus' crucifixion.

Key People:

• Jesus Christ
• Pontius Pilate
• King Herod
• Barabbas
• Jewish leaders and the crowd

Key Places:

• Jerusalem

Key Events:

• Jesus' trial before Pontius Pilate and King Herod
• Pilate's declaration of Jesus' innocence
• The crowd's demand for Jesus' crucifixion
• The release of Barabbas

Questions to Consider:

1. How do the actions of Pilate and Herod reflect the complex political and social dynamics of Jesus' time?
2. Why did the crowd demand Jesus' crucifixion despite Pilate finding no fault in Him?
3. What can we learn from Jesus' response to the injustice he faced during his trials?