Overwhelmed by Emotions

What is it about?

This article explores the intertextual relationship between the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 19 and the depiction of the disciples in Luke-Acts, particularly through the lens of emotion and characterization. It challenges the traditional structural approach to biblical narratives, which views character development as static, by applying postclassical narratology to examine how readers/hearers interact with the text and construct meaning. The analysis reveals that the authorial audience of Luke-Acts is invited to compare the emotional experiences and responses of Elijah and the disciples, highlighting the latter’s struggles with emotional control and understanding of Jesus’ teachings. The disciples’ inability to manage their emotions is contrasted with Jesus’ emotional self-control. This dynamic interplay between guides readers to critically assess the disciples’ actions and underscores Jesus’ superior spiritual and emotional discipline.

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