Division: A Study in 1 KingsSample

What does it say?

When Elijah challenged the prophets of Baal, the Lord sent fire to consume the entire altar. All of Israel worshipped the Lord, and heavy rain ended the drought.

What does it mean?

The showdown atop Mount Carmel was intended to force the people of Israel to choose between following Baal and worshipping the Lord. His challenge was initially met with silence. As the lone prophet of the Lord, Elijah faced 450 prophets of Baal with unwavering confidence; false gods were just that – false. The Lord answered Elijah’s prayer with such finality that there was no doubt regarding His identity, “the Lord is God!” The people of Israel could be silent no longer. Appropriately, they fell to the ground and worshipped Him as Lord.

How should I respond?

By definition, a follower of Christ can’t sit on the fence regarding daily obedience to the Lord. But many Christians have become so accustomed to enjoying all the world has to offer that they are no longer following Jesus. As you think back on this week, what pulled your attention or affection away from the Lord? What activity or television show took you in a direction away from following Christ? We are guilty of sitting on the fence if we claim Jesus as our Savior, yet follow things that oppose His teachings and offer false hope. How will you respond to Elijah’s challenge? “If the Lord is God, follow Him!” Will you sit on the fence, or worship the Lord with your words and life?