Journal Through the Bible: Week 50 Thursday

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I Kings 18:17-19:3

This is one of those well-known passages of scripture detailing the showdown on Mount Carmel between Elijah and the prophets of Baal.

Does God issue any commands?

• God answered the prayer of Elijah based upon commandments that He had previously given to the Children of Israel, the most notable being the First Commandment, "Thou shalt have no other gods before me." Another thing He had told them was that they were not to cut themselves or to seek the help of evil spirits. (See Leviticus chapter 19.)
• In Elijah's prayer He asked God to prove Himself to the people to show that Elijah had done all these things at God's command. (18:36)

Does God make any promises?

• God does not speak directly, but it is evident that He had made promises to Elijah that He would show the people a sign prior to sending rain after the 3 1/2 year drought.

Does this passage teach anything about Jesus?

• Jesus is the God who rained the fire down from Heaven upon the sacrifice, wood, water, dust surrounding the altar, and even the stones of the altar itself. Our God is a consuming fire and is to be worshiped with reverence. (See Hebrews 12:24-29.)

Does this passage teach anything about yet-future events?