Definition: And he answered him, I [am]: go, tell thy lord, Behold, Elijah [is here].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from the Book of 1 Kings, chapter 18, verse 8. It’s a really important and dramatic moment in the story! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is sending a powerful messenger to confront someone who is defying him. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And he answered him…” : This tells us that King David is speaking to Elijah, a prophet who had been troubling God with his strange and rebellious behavior. “I [am]”: David says, "I am." This isn't just a statement of fact; it’s a declaration of his identity as the king and, importantly, as someone who is standing up to God. He’s acknowledging that he’s in charge and resisting God's will. “Go, tell thy lord…” : This is the crucial part. David is telling Elijah to go and tell him – to warn him – that he is disobeying God. “…Behold, Elijah [is here].” : This is where it gets really significant. "Behold" means "look!" The word “Elijah” means “the one who sees.” So, this phrase means God has seen that Elijah is acting against him. It’s a direct observation of God’s presence and his displeasure with Elijah's actions. What does it mean practically? This verse sets the stage for a major conflict. It suggests that Elijah has been causing trouble, potentially challenging God’s authority and possibly even disrupting God’s plan. David is essentially saying, "I recognize you're breaking the rules, and I am taking action to stop you." In essence, it’s a warning and a challenge. It highlights that God isn't just concerned with Elijah's behavior; He's actively watching over his people and ensuring they follow His commands. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some context about the story of 1 Kings 18? Discuss what this verse might symbolize (like rebellion, disobedience, or divine judgment)?