1 Kings 18:25-29

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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS

The Prophets of Baal

BACKGROUND NOTES

On what does the Bible focus concerning the Mount Carmel confrontation?
Is there ever a time for holy ridicule?
Is sincerity enough for salvation? Explain.
If enough religious zeal and fervor are shown, people will make it with God. True or False?
Idols will not answer you in your time of need. Elaborate on this point.

The failure of Baal to answer, paving the way for God’s dramatic answer.
Yes, Elijah mocked the false prophets. Sometimes it may help people get the point more clearly, but don’t make a habit of this technique.
No. Many people are deluded into thinking that if they are sincere they will get to heaven. But apart from Christ, there is no salvation. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” John 14:6.
False. The prophets of Baal had plenty of both, but they were without faith in the true and living God. On the wrong basis, fervor and zeal accomplish nothing.
Christians, as well as unbelievers, sometimes pursue idols – power, money, pleasure. These idols will not answer them when they stand before God; earthly idols will be silent. “Keep yourselves from idols,” 1 John 5:21 is addressed to Christians.

Do you recall meeting someone who was sincere, but not saved? Did you confront him? Would you confront someone like this now? How?

Is there an idol in your life? (An idol is anything that takes priority over God). Think seriously about this, and do what you need to do to make the Lord number one.