God versus Baal

Text: 1 Kings 18.20-40

Thesis: To stress the supremacy of God so that we will worship Him alone.

Introduction:

(1)    We live in an age of “political correctness.”

(2)    However, the Bible makes some very exclusive, narrow claims.

Discussion:

I.                   The Story:

A.    A challenge is issued from Elijah to the 450 prophets of Baal.

1.      Two alters would be set up with offerings on them in order to get either God or Baal to respond with a sign of fire.

2.      The one who responded would be seen as the true God.

B.     The prophets of Baal go first only to receive no answer.

C.     Then, Elijah calls upon God after he had covered his alter with water 3 times and after he had filled the surrounding trench with water.

1.      God responds by sending fire to consume the offering, wood, stones, dust, and water.

2.      The verdict is clear: Yahweh alone is the true God.

II.                The Application:

A.    We must not serve idols.

1.      God is a jealous God and the first commandment that He gave on the tablets was to have no gods before Him (Exod. 20.3).

2.      We cannot serve 2 masters (Matt. 6.24).

B.     Idols cannot save us.

1.      Jesus alone is the way (John 14.6).

2.      There is no other name by which we can be saved (Acts 4.12).

C.     Therefore, we must choose to serve God.

1.      Joshua called upon Israel to make a similar choice (Josh. 24.15).

2.      Let us consider the characteristics of God:

a.       He is omnibenevolent (i.e., all loving).

b.      He is omniscient (i.e., all knowing).

c.       He is omnipotent (i.e., all-powerful).

d.      He is omnipresent (i.e., all present).

3.      When we choose to serve God, we must serve Him with all of our heart, soul and mind (Matt. 22.37).

Conclusion:

Will you choose to serve God alone?