In this powerful closing message of the Elijah series, Rev. Jeff Switzer traces the stunning presence of the prophet Elijah throughout the New Testament and shows how his life, ministry, and message become a clear lens revealing the glory and gospel of Jesus Christ.
Preached at New Prospect Methodist Campground in Vancleave, Mississippi, this standalone sermon walks through key hinge points of redemptive history where Elijah reappears:
- John the Baptist – The forerunner who came “in the spirit and power of Elijah,” pointing people to the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.
- Jesus’ first sermon (Luke 4) – The radical illustration of Elijah and the widow of Zarephath, highlighting God’s mercy to outsiders and foreshadowing the universal scope of Christ’s mission to Jew and Gentile alike.
- Caesarea Philippi (Matthew 16) – When people wondered if Jesus was Elijah or one of the prophets, Peter’s confession revealed the greater truth: Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of the living God.
- The Transfiguration (Matthew 17) – Moses (the Law) and Elijah (the Prophets) appear with Jesus, yet the Father’s voice declares, “This is my beloved Son… Listen to Him.” Jesus alone remains—the fulfillment of everything that came before.
- The Crucifixion (Matthew 27) – Bystanders misunderstand Jesus’ cry and wait to see if Elijah will rescue Him. Instead, Jesus enters the suffering Elijah could never bear, freely offering Himself as the sacrifice for sin.
Elijah is the shadow; Jesus is the substance. Elijah prepares the way; Jesus is the Way. Elijah calls Israel back to God; Jesus calls the world. Elijah calls down fire; Jesus baptizes with the Holy Spirit and fire.
Drawing from the wisdom of Winnie the Pooh (“I always get to where I’m going by walking away from where I’ve been”), Rev. Switzer closes with a clear gospel invitation: Repent—walk away from where you’ve been—and walk to Jesus, the Lamb of God, the universal Messiah, and the Son of the living God.
Whether this is your first time joining us or you’ve been with us all week, this message stands on its own and points clearly to the person and work of Christ.
Scripture: 1 Kings 18 (with extensive New Testament connections in the Gospels)
Series: Life and Times of Elijah (Campmeeting 2026)
About the Service
Preached by Rev. Jeff Switzer
Saturday, October 17, 2026
New Prospect Methodist Campground, Vancleave, MS
Connect with Mount Pleasant Global Methodist Church:
Website: https://mtpleasantgmc.org/
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God bless you.
“This is my beloved Son. Listen to Him.”
