We continue our new Sermon Series ‘What can we know about God from Elijah?’. With preaching from Nathan Gordon and our service led by David Casse.

Sermon Notes

The Road to Victory

Last week we covered Elijah’s season of preparation in chapter 17, whereby isolation in the brook of Cherith, unusual methods of provision by a raven and poor widowed woman. However, in chapter 18 despite the road being paved with obstacles and challenges, Elijah through the power of God would realise a tremendous victory on Mount Carmel.

As we discover the battle on Mount Carmel the road to victory in our lives may involve…

Moving out of your comfort zones – v12

• Elijah had a proven track record of following the Lord’s will even in challenging circumstances
• God’s will may not always be cosy and comfy but it’s the best place to be (See chapter 17)

Challenge – Obadiah recognised the Spirit of the Lord was directing Elijah’s steps, in like manner are we prepared to go where the Spirit leads us?

Making unpopular decisions – v21

• Elijah’s conviction of the true God of Israel was against the overwhelming majority, yet he remained resolute in his belief.
• Taking a stand for God’s word may often be unpopular in our society, but God honours those who are faithful to His word.

Challenge – Elijah was prepared to stand on his convictions despite being outnumbered by 850 prophets of Baal and Asherah combined. Are we prepared to make such decisions to stand against trends or policies that violate the word of God in our day?

Recognition of God’s Power – v39

• The fire of the Lord fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones, and the soil, and licked up the water in the trench.
• The prophets of Baal recognised the power of God and confessed him as LORD

Challenge – after every victory in our lives, it’s important to recognise who is responsible for the outcome. Are we looking inwardly at ourselves or others, or are we first giving glory and honour to God who afforded us the victory?

Song lyrics from Rich Tolbert Jr – Never be defeated

I shall rise I shall be
I shall go in victory
No weapon formed against me
Will ever overtake me

And because God is the greatest power
We shall never, never be defeated

Isaiah 54:17

No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn.

Romans 8:37

Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

Questions

1. Obadiah’s remarks are thought-provoking “I don’t know where the Spirit of the LORD may carry you when I leave you.” Discuss the joy and challenges of being open to following the Lord where he leads? What excites you or what do you find daunting? (V12)
2. Discuss why “wavering between two opinions” can be detrimental to our lives and spiritual walks with God? (V21) – the prophets of Baal would incorporate worship to Baal & God.
3. Discuss the challenges of taking a stand for God’s word in our society and the potential repercussions?
4. The fire represented God’s power and authority on Mount Carmel, discuss moments in your life where you recognised it could only have been the power of God in your situation? 
5. Discuss verse 40 – why do you think the prophets of Baal after recognising God’s power were seized and killed?