This is War: Divided Hearts
1 Kings 18 shows a nation paralyzed by compromise and a prophet calling them back to wholehearted devotion. On Mount Carmel, God exposes the emptiness of false gods and answers by fire to reveal Himself as the one true Lord. The passage reminds us that divided loyalty leads to spiritual drought, but repentance invites restoration. Ultimately, the fire that fell points us to Christ, who bore judgment so we could receive mercy.
Sermon Outline
Discussion Questions
1. When you hear the phrase “This is war,” what kind of battle comes to mind first — physical, emotional, spiritual? Why?
2. Why do you think the people said nothing when Elijah asked, “How long will you waver?”
3. What stands out to you about the difference between Elijah’s prayer and the prophets of Baal’s efforts?
4. Why was it important that Elijah repaired the altar before praying?
5. In what ways was Israel trying to serve both God and Baal?
6. What does this passage teach us about the danger of divided loyalty?
7. Why do false gods often require so much effort but produce no real peace or power?
Sermon Outline
- Understanding the Battle
- The War Cry
- The Enemy’s Strategy
- The Turning Point
- When Fire Falls
- After the Fire Comes the Rain
Discussion Questions
1. When you hear the phrase “This is war,” what kind of battle comes to mind first — physical, emotional, spiritual? Why?
2. Why do you think the people said nothing when Elijah asked, “How long will you waver?”
3. What stands out to you about the difference between Elijah’s prayer and the prophets of Baal’s efforts?
4. Why was it important that Elijah repaired the altar before praying?
5. In what ways was Israel trying to serve both God and Baal?
6. What does this passage teach us about the danger of divided loyalty?
7. Why do false gods often require so much effort but produce no real peace or power?
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