Elijah and the Prophets of Baal

1 Kings 18:18-40

Elijah said to Ahab, “Jezebel’s prophets pollute the land.
So gather them 450 to 1; let’s see who’ll be left to stand.”
So Ahab called for all to assemble to give the gods a test.
The people gathered at Mount Carmel to see which god was best.

Elijah the prophet addressed the crowd, “It’s time to make up your mind.
It’s time to stop this wavering dance; I propose we ask for a sign.
Let each side slay a bull on the altar, but their god will start the fire.
By doing this it should be clear: one god is real, the other a liar.”

The prophets of Baal brought their bull, sacrificed it before the crowd.
They arranged the pieces on the wood, called to Baal long and loud.
They danced and cried from morning to noon, their fear beginning to haunt them.
Knowing their god was a devilish fake, Elijah began to taunt them.

“What’s wrong with Baal? Why doesn’t he answer? I hear you wail and weep.
I think you need to shout much louder. Perhaps he’s still asleep.”
They slashed their limbs and cut themselves; their blood did freely flow,
Throughout the day they prophesied, but Baal did not show.

Elijah rebuilt the altar of God; laid the bull upon the wood.
The water outpoured was performed so no one misunderstood.
He said, “Fetch four barrels, water it thrice until it fills the trench.
If God be God there is nothing on earth His fire cannot quench.”

Then he stepped back, raised his hands and cried out to the Lord,
“Oh Show the people you are God; true worship must be restored.”
With a thunderous clap and a brilliant flash, fire fell before their eyes.
All was consumed; the water lapped up; the ground before him was dry.

All of Israel fell on their face, His glory they proclaimed.
The God of Elijah won the day, their allegiance was reclaimed.
The evil prophets of Jezebel were judged at God’s command.
Once again God’s glorious name was honored throughout the land.

Is there a prophet from Jezebel alive in your heart today?
Will Jesus find idolatry that you have allowed to stay?
When Jesus comes will you rejoice or will you silently quake?
Two possible futures lie ahead. Which future do you take?

© Copyright George M. Cuff, All Rights Reserved