1 Kings 14 - 18

Displeasing The Lord, Asa, Elijah

The kingdoms of Israel and Judah were in near total apostasy. Both had a succession of kings that did evil in the sight of the Lord. Israel goes through a series of kings each of which are more evil than the previous king. Finally they end up with Ahab, one of the most wicked kings in all of Israel's history.  Judah fares a little better in that after several evil kings, the Lord appoints Asa as king of Judah.  In 15:9, 14 we read, "Asa did what was pleasing in the Lord's sight. Asa's heart remained completely faithful to the Lord throughout his life."

As Israel fell deeper into sin, the anger of the Lord was kindled against them. Ahab marries Jezebel who is a worshiper of Baal and influences weak Ahab into setting up temples and shrines to Baal (16:31-32). Jezebel was extremely wicked and hated anyone and anything that served the true God of Israel. In 18:4 it records that she attempted to kill all the Lord's prophets. Only the cunningness of Obadiah prevents their demise.

During the time of Ahab's reign, the Lord raises up a might prophet, Elijah. He has great favor with the Lord and can perform miracles. He is not afraid to tell Ahab about his wickedness, nor is he fearful of prophesying doom to Ahab and Jezebel. He is introduced in chapter 17 in an ominous manner, calling for a devastating and protracted drought. Only at his (Elijah's) word will the drought be stopped.

To demonstrate his power with the Lord, Elijah arranges a Mt. Carmel showdown with all the prophets of Baal. He has them construct an altar, prepare and ox for sacrifice, then demand fire from their god, Baal. It is no surprise that no answer is forthcoming from a dead idol.  Then Elijah builds an altar, prepares and ox, and then has 12 large jars (about 3 gallons each) poured over the sacrifice.  It is again no surprise when the true God of Israel answers with fire consuming the ox, the altar, and the water!  The people of Israel are in awe. Elijah has them capture of the prophets of Baal, and unlike Jezebel, he is successful in killing them all.

May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.