Our God is the only God, yet we so often run to our idols, and so we limp through life. This week is the famous contest between the true God and Baal. Elijah has complete confidence in whom the winner will be. Last week Paige said every “hero” in Scripture is not to be worshipped, but is raising his hands, pointing us to worship and trust the real God. She told about seeing a giant size poster in a friend’s home of Tiger Woods.
Not thinking they were huge fans of Tiger Woods, she said, “Tell me about this photograph.”
Her friend said, “Isn’t that a great picture of Doug?” Paige looked closer and way back in the corner of the crowd she saw her friend’s husband, one of many, raising both hands in praise to Tiger.
That’s how we should see every “hero,” like Elijah. They are little people raising their hands in praise to our great God.
And how clear that is this week.
Thursday: The Setting
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Read 1 Kings 18:1-15
A. Contrast the goals of Obadiah and Ahab. (verses 1-6)
B. What is Obadiah’s fear and how does Elijah reassure him? (verses 7-15)
Click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIXtjlGA1Ok and watch to 14:39 where she says pick up with me in verse 16.
2. Paige reviews the setting and gives some principles for Biblical interpretation.
A. What does she remind us about all the kings in the Northern Kingdom and about Ahab?
B. What do we learn about God through his bringing Elijah and Elisha at this time?
3. We must understand what a passage means before we can apply it.
A. What do you find out about God through His sending Elijah at this dark time and how is this relevant to us?
B. She said Elijah is not about giftedness, but about faithfulness. How does this apply to you? (Be specific)
4. What was her point about her story of the inebriated cousin looking for a “real woman?”
Friday: How Long Will You Limp?
5. Read 1 Kings 18:16-21
A. What does Elijah ask Ahab to do and why?
B. Paige said a good translation of verse 21 is how long will you hobble? How has running after an idol caused you to hobble or limp?
6. Listen to Paige up to minute 31 just after she says “We are all following what we think is most true.”
A. The Israelites were trying to follow God and Baal. How do we do that with our idols?
B. What did Paige say is our rival religion? How does this apply to you?
I wish I could hear her lecture at the school that warned her not to offend anyone but to be inclusive! It reminded me of when Mother Teresa was told not to speak about abortion at the National Prayer Breakfast and it was the first thing she addressed. Paige’s courage showed a victory over the idol of approval.
C. Why does she say we cannot just “like” God?
D. Baal was a specialist who didn’t claim authority over whole life. In contrast, what does Matthew 6:24 say?
E. Paige said we can’t get away from “You are what you eat.” What did she mean? How does this apply to what or who we worship?
F. What was her point concerning her conversation with the college student who said, “At least I know what is right.”
G. Has anyone ever asked you, “Can I do _______________and still be a Christian?” If so, how did you or how would you answer?
Saturday: Facing Delusions
Baal’s speciality was fire, throwing thunderbolts of fire. So Elijah is going to have God take Baal on in Baal’s area of expertise.
7. Read 1 Kings 18:22-27
A. How many prophets will call to Baal? How many to God?
B. Baal was the God of fire — what is the irony here?
C. When Baal does nothing, what does Elijah suggest his followers do? (verse 27)
8. Listen to Paige up to minute 45:08 after she gives David Powlison’s definition of idolatry.
A. The contest is to show the people if the choices they are making are the right choices. For whatever choices you are making for your life in parenting, finances, eating, whatever, you should ask, “Is Jesus the Son of God?” Why should you ask that?
B. What was her point with her story of a night at the lake with friends and the girl who didn’t want to stop playing a game until she lost to Paige?
C. How did Elijah stack the deck in Baal’s favor?
D. God loves to be at a disadvantage to show He wins. What examples from Scripture did she give?
9. Is there an idol that you are finding victory over? How has God shown Himself so much better than that idol?
Sunday: God Hunt Sunday
10. How are you or have you experienced the risenness of Christ this week?
Monday: Follow the Frenzy
11. Read 1 Kings 18:28-29 and describe the frenzy.
12. Listen from 45:08 to 57:08 when she says “You have to go looking in a completely different place for the problem.”
A. The New Testament switches from the language of idols to the language of desires, and often they are good things that have taken the rightful place of God. How has that been true in your life?
B. She says a sure way to find your idols is to follow the frenzy. How have you seen that with an idol in your life — you expected to meet your need, but it didn’t, and you are undone. Give examples.
C. Why was there no answer from Baal? (verse 29)
D. Calvin said our hearts are perpetual idol-making factories. Is that true in your life? How has an awareness of this helped you?
E. What are some ways you can help your children when they are in a frenzy about an admission letter, a friend, or a sport?
F. What devastation has come to your life as a result of following an idol?
G. Does anything else stand out to you?
Tuesday: Where The Fire Fell
13. Read 1 Kings 18:30-39
A. How does Elijah pray? (36-37)
B. What happened and how did the people respond?
14. Listen to the end of Paige’s lecture.
A. Where did the fire fall, and where didn’t it fall? How does this relate to Jesus?
B. What did she mean when she said “God does not forgive sin, He forgives sinners?”
C. Contrast what our idols ask with what God asks.
D. What stood out to you from her reading of The Silver Chair?
Wednesday:
15. What is your takeaway and why?
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Thursday
1. Read 1 Kings 18:1-15
A. Contrast the goals of Obadiah and Ahab. (verses 1-6)
Obadiah feared the Lord…Ahab did not.Obadiah was hiding and feeding the prophets of the Lord in caves…King Abab’s wife, Jezebel was killing them and Ahab was trying to find a way to keep livestock alive.
B. What is Obadiah’s fear and how does Elijah reassure him? (verses 7-15)
Obadiah’s fear is that when he goes to Ahab to let him know Elijah is here, that Elijah will be carried away by the Spirit of the LORD to a place unknown to Obadiah and when he tells Ahab he can’t find him, Ahab will have him killed. Elijah reassures him by saying, “As the LORD of hosts lives, before whom I stand , I will surely present myself to him today.”
2. Paige reviews the setting and gives some principles for Biblical interpretation.
A. What does she remind us about all the kings in the Northern Kingdom and about Ahab?
That they all turned from serving God to worship idols and that Ahab is the most wicked king ever.
B. What do we learn about God through his bringing Elijah and Elisha at this time?
That He is pursuing His people, He wants to offer Himself.
3. We must understand what a passage means before we can apply it.
A. What do you find out about God through His sending Elijah at this dark time and how is this relevant to us?He is a God of grace and love and He longs for a relationship with us…to make Him first place, to be committed and obedient to Him,
B. She said Elijah is not about giftedness, but about faithfulness. How does this apply to you? (Be specific)
In using the gifts God gave me, it is more important that I remain faithful to Him and do what He wants me to do always pointing to Him as my source, bringing glory to Him.
4. What was her point about her story of the inebriated cousin looking for a “real woman?”
He found what he wanted but it was much more than he bargained for. The people are thinking that God coming for a show-down, to show that He is the true God is really cool, what a great idea but they’re going to get a lot more than they bargained for or even dared ask for. He’s not coming to offer rain, but Himself.
Great start for us, Sharon. Thank you for being so faithful!
Thank you Dee and I so appreciate your perseverance in doing this blog every week…means more than you know!!
AMEN TO Sharon!!
1. Read 1 Kings 18:1-15
A. Contrast the goals of Obadiah and Ahab. (verses 1-6)
Obadiah was a Godly man. He wanted to save the prophets from Ahab. Ahab was self-centered. He wanted to save his cattle.
B. What is Obadiah’s fear and how does Elijah reassure him? (verses 7-15)
He was afraid Ahab would kill him if he went to him with any news about Elijah. Elijah promised to go see the king promptly.
Paige reviews the setting and gives some principles for Biblical interpretation.
A. What does she remind us about all the kings in the Northern Kingdom and about Ahab?
It is a divided kingdom. Follow the great sin of idolatry. They were mean and bad, but Ahab was the worst.
Some kings reign a long time and they get a small recognition and vice versa.
The historical accounts reveal God. It is not about me.
We need to understand what it means to find out what He has done for us.
B. What do we learn about God through his bringing Elijah and Elisha at this time?
He is tying to get His people’s attention. He brings them because He is faithful. He is sustaining His people to do His work. He is seeking them.
3. We must understand what a passage means before we can apply it.
A. What do you find out about God through His sending Elijah at this dark time and how is this relevant to us?
God will not ever give up on us. He will give us what we want (even if it’s not good for us) and sit back a wait. But, eventually He will come and reveal Himself. He is the Hound of Heaven.
B. She said Elijah is not about giftedness, but about faithfulness. How does this apply to you? (Be specific)
He doesn’t give up. He does what God wants. Elijah does not waver in his faith. Ever. My faith will not waver. Period. He. Is. Lord.
4. What was her point about her story of the inebriated cousin looking for a “real woman?”
He was not interested in the average girl. God comes to have a “show down” to shock them, but He is coming to with grace to give them more than they really want. They are trying to serve idols and God at the same time. They are seeking Elijah. They are being asked the question “Which God is real?”
So relatable about trying to serve God and our idols at the same time!
Read 1 Kings 18:1-15
A. Contrast the goals of Obadiah and Ahab. (verses 1-6)
Ahab followed the way of the previous kings of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. He was the most wicked king in Israel’s history. Ahab had no interest in the true God, only in the worship of Baal and idols. Obadiah, feared the Lord. When Jezebel (wife of Ahab) was destroying the prophets, Obadiah provided 100 prophets with shelter in a cave, bread and water.
B. What is Obadiah’s fear and how does Elijah reassure him? (verses 7-15)
Obadiah fears that he will be put to death by Ahab when he announces that Elijah is here. He fears that Elijah will be taken away again, by the spirit of the Lord when Ahab seeks him out. Obadiah will look like he has lied and then be put to death.
2. Paige reviews the setting and gives some principles for Biblical interpretation.
A. What does she remind us about all the kings in the Northern Kingdom and about Ahab?
Because of Solomon’s arrogance and his son, Rehoboam, following his ways, turning away from the Lord, the Kingdom of Israel is divided. The bulk of the tribes are in the Northern Kingdom and all of the Northern Kings follow the great sin of Jeroboam, who led them into idolatry. Ahab is the most evil King in Israel’s history.
B. What do we learn about God through his bringing Elijah and Elisha at this time?
God’s Word will not be ignored; God will not fail on His covenant promise to pursue His people.
3. We must understand what a passage means before we can apply it.
a.) What does it look like to be committed to the Lord. b.) What does it look like to be disobedient to the Lord? c.) How does the Lord respond to those things?
We must understand all of these before we can see “what it means for me.” We study not to find out what we should do for Him; First we find out what He has done for us. Then, we commit our lives to that Love and what it look like to live in that Love. We study what has been revealed in His Word.
A. What do you find out about God through His sending Elijah at this dark time and how is this relevant to us?
God is always pursuing us and holding up His covenant with us. We are called to be faithful to Him; In His time, He will reveal Himself, if we are faithful and committed to Him.
B. She said Elijah is not about giftedness, but about faithfulness. How does this apply to you? (Be specific)
I need to be faithful day by day. I cannot plan in my head what my expectation is of HOW God is using me, but that I am WILLING to be used by Him for His greater purpose. This is so hard to do, but if we are in total trust of Him, He will reveal our path one day at a time.
4. What was her point about her story of the inebriated cousin looking for a “real woman?”
What you are expecting is way less than what God has in mind. God is offering Himself to you, not just an answer to your immediate prayer ~ it is so much more. If we wait on the Lord. I am reminded of this favorite verse: Isaiah 40:31 They that wait upon the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not be weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
I love that verse, too, Patti. And yes, what we are expecting is way less than what He has in mind…He wants to give us Himself! How precious, and how often I settle for the beggarly elements of this world and turn away my lovely Lord.
So good from Patti:
I cannot plan in my head what my expectation is of HOW God is using me, but that I am WILLING to be used by Him for His greater purpose. This is so hard to do, but if we are in total trust of Him, He will reveal our path one day at a time.
I love this Patti- “We study not to find out what we should do for Him; First we find out what He has done for us. Then, we commit our lives to that Love and what it look like to live in that Love. We study what has been revealed in His Word.”
Beautifully said. And this: “I need to be faithful day by day. I cannot plan in my head what my expectation is of HOW God is using me, but that I am WILLING to be used by Him for His greater purpose.”
There are few people in my life God has ever used as much as He is using you. I am SO encouraged by your example, your faithfulness and unconditional love. You truly shine of Jesus, so thankful He brought you into my life!
A. Contrast the goals of Obadiah and Ahab. (verses 1-6) Obadiah was a God fearing man who was trying to save the people of God. Ahab was trying to save livestock. B. What is Obadiah’s fear and how does Elijah reassure him? (verses 7-15) That after he told Ahab that Elijah was there, God would take Elijah away and Ahab would kill Obadiah.
2. Paige reviews the setting and gives some principles for Biblical interpretation.
A. What does she remind us about all the kings in the Northern Kingdom and about Ahab?That they were incorporating idols into their worship. Ahab was the most wicked king of all.
A. What do you find out about God through His sending Elijah at this dark time and how is this relevant to us? That God is always seeking to bring us back to Himself.
B. She said Elijah is not about giftedness, but about faithfulness. How does this apply to you? (Be specific) I don’t have any gifts that I can think of so I have to focus on what God is calling me to do and not on what I feel “equipped” to do.
4. What was her point about her story of the inebriated cousin looking for a “real woman?” He got what he asked for, but it wasn’t what he wanted.
2B. What do we learn about God through his bringing Elijah and Elisha at this time? That Israel was so far off track that God needed to do some startling things to wake them up and bring them back to Him.
Dawn–while I DO see giftedness in you, a love of truth and for God’s justice…your answer helped me because I feel like even at my age I still don’t really know what I’m good at…but I like what you said about faithfulness. So good.
Okay, Dawn. Wait a minute. You definitely have gifts. I see both discernment and administration in you. Even your noticing her mistake on the chalkboard. I am so right-brained that I don’t pick up on things. I am the worst copy editor, for example. As everyone here knows! I can’t even number right. I don’t think it is self-centered to know where you are strong and where you are weak. But I do agree that is is best to concentrate on Him and simply being faithful to Him. I see you as a very valuable part of the body of Christ and am so glad you are here.
Dawn, Amen to Dee!! And I see the gift of insight in so many of your comments!!
5. Read 1 Kings 18:16-21
A. What does Elijah ask Ahab to do and why? Bring 450 prophets of Baal and 400 prophets of Asherah to Mount Carmel to show them God’s power and that He alone is the true God. He is offering them grace by giving them more than they ever dared to ask for.
B. Paige said a good translation of verse 21 is how long will you hobble? How has running after an idol caused you to hobble or limp? The time I spend pursuing an idol keeps me from spending time with God.
6. Listen to Paige up to minute 31 just after she says “We are all following what we think is most true.”
A. The Israelites were trying to follow God and Baal. How do we do that with our idols? We think that we can have God and whatever is our idol.
B. What did Paige say is our rival religion? Worldliness How does this apply to you? Trying to keep from offending anyone by not speaking the truth. Trying to make what I want to do (the idol) fit in with what God wants me to do.
I wish I could hear her lecture at the school that warned her not to offend anyone but to be inclusive! It reminded me of when Mother Teresa was told not to speak about abortion at the National Prayer Breakfast and it was the first thing she addressed. Paige’s courage showed a victory over the idol of approval.
C. Why does she say we cannot just “like” God? If you study the claims of Jesus you will either hate him and what he says about himself or you will love him and give your life to him. There is no middle ground.
D. Baal was a specialist who didn’t claim authority over whole life. In contrast, what does Matthew 6:24 say? “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other…”
E. Paige said we can’t get away from “You are what you eat.” What did she mean? Whatever you take in is what you are. How does this apply to what or who we worship? What you are doing shows who you are and what you truly believe.
F. What was her point concerning her conversation with the college student who said, “At least I know what is right.” This girl thought that there was some merit in proclaiming that she knows what is true and right, but she wasn’t ready to give up her “life”, as if that was somehow better than saying that she doesn’t believe at all (kind of like Obadiah).
G. Has anyone ever asked you, “Can I do _______________and still be a Christian?” If so, how did you or how would you answer? Being a Christian means following Christ, not rules. It’s not a matter of what can I hold on to or keep doing if accept Jesus, but what does He want me to do or stop doing. That can only come through prayer, studying the Word and fellowship with other Christians.
Beautiful answer from Dawn.
Being a Christian means following Christ, not rules. It’s not a matter of what can I hold on to or keep doing if accept Jesus, but what does He want me to do or stop doing. That can only come through prayer, studying the Word and fellowship with other Christians.
Dawn–this is so timely for me with my son right now! Love this! “Being a Christian means following Christ, not rules.”
Amen! What a straight forward, to the point, honest answer Dawn! I will remember that one!
I haven’t listened to the whole study yet, but I think she may have a typo on her whiteboard. She lists under nature of idols 1. How they ask 2. How Baal answers. Then under nature of God she lists 1. How Elijah asks 2. How Baal answers. I’m pretty sure that God answered.
Oh dear! I didn’t notice that! 😆
I saw that, too, Dawn. Thanks for posting it here.
Friday:
This was so eye- opening for the prevailing progressivism of our day. A god we can LIKE is being promoted more than a God of truth. Yet, she speaks to our own hearts when she says we like to criticize other religions as false while we, ourselves, worship the god of worldliness. She quotes J. Stott in his book, The Cross of Christ, who talks about the myth of the innocuous Jesus. He is not a Jesus we can LIKE. It is a delusion to think we can add Jesus to our lives but not allow Him to gain authority in our lives and tell us what to do and what not to do. Like Elijah said to the false prophets and people, if He is the true God, then you must follow Him to the exclusion of all rival idols. In fact, if you believe Him to be the true God, you are crazy not to follow Him. Paige said we don’t mind being told to believe in something or someone, but we hate to be told to follow Him or obey Him. Paige makes the shocking, but true statement: Can I be a true Christian and not follow Christ? NO!!! Choose you this day whom you will serve! I’ve had discussions with family members and others who seem to be turning away from the faith of the Scriptures. It is disturbing to be told that clear Scripture is “your opinion.” If it is my opinion, you are under no obligation to comply, but clear Scriptural commands demand our obedience. If we don’t have Scriptural truth to moor us in these changing times, what do we have? I so want the idols in my own heart to be dethroned and replaced with the throne ship of Jesus Christ.
Such a good desire. So often we pray for God to give us our idols, instead of praying for Him to dethrone them and replace them with Him.
Oh, Missy! AMEN!! I love this entire statement!! So true! So Love this: It is a delusion to think we can add Jesus to our lives but not allow Him to gain authority in our lives and tell us what to do and what not to do.
And this! If we don’t have Scriptural truth to moor us in these changing times, what do we have? I so want the idols in my own heart to be dethroned and replaced with the throne ship of Jesus Christ.
Amen! I agree completely Miriam! “All for Jesus, I surrender, all to Him I truely give…”
5. Read 1 Kings 18:16-21
A. What does Elijah ask Ahab to do and why?
Elijah asks Ahab to meet him on Mount Carmel with all of Israel and their “prophets,” Baal and Asheran. He did this to confront the people about their beliefs and to remind them of God and what they were missing.
B. Paige said a good translation of verse 21 is how long will you hobble? How has running after an idol caused you to hobble or limp?
I am slow to read my Bible. I forget to pray before meals. I become the person I used to be…where church and God were only on Wednesdays and Sundays.
6. Listen to Paige up to minute 31 just after she says “We are all following what we think is most true.”
A. The Israelites were trying to follow God and Baal. How do we do that with our idols?
We split our time between the world and God.
B. What did Paige say is our rival religion? How does this apply to you?
Worldliness is our rival religion; the food the drink, the clothes, the body, the _______. It is self-serving. It is not serving others.
C. Why does she say we cannot just “like” God?
We either will love Him or hate Him, there is no in between. He is not like Mr. Rogers. We base this idea on His explanation of who He really is, from the Bible. We can’t just add Him to our lives; becoming more spiritual.
D. Baal was a specialist who didn’t claim authority over whole life. In contrast, what does Matthew 6:24 say?
““No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money.”
Matthew 6:24 NLT
E. Paige said we can’t get away from “You are what you eat.” What did she mean? How does this apply to what or who we worship?
We are what we consume. It is who we are.
F. What was her point concerning her conversation with the college student who said, “At least I know what is right.”
The girl couldn’t seem to do the right thing, but knew what the right thing was. She needed to follow what is true instead of what she wanted to follow. She had the “then” part of the “if…then” statement. The “if” part was her belief in what she wanted not in what was true and right.
G. Has anyone ever asked you, “Can I do _______________and still be a Christian?” If so, how did you or how would you answer?
I haven’t had this experience, however I have had people comment that, “God wouldn’t have me because of _______.” I told them He loves everyone. “Love God and love people.”
If they asked I would probably dodge the question and instead either ask a question (“Do you want to change your life?) or say something like “…knowing God transforms our lives.”
Great notes, Laura!
I am on the Island, and just listened to you speak. Thank you, thank you! I needed to hear it! PTL!!
Welcome Deb — would love to have you jump in. We’re just getting started!
Welcome Deb! How blessed you are to have heard Dee speak!
Friday
5. Read 1 Kings 18:16-21
A. What does Elijah ask Ahab to do and why?
He asks him to summon all of Israel, along with 450 prophets to Mt. Carmel to ask them, “how much longer will you waver, hobbling between 2 opinions? If the LORD is God, follow Him! But if Baal is God, then follow Him!
B. Paige said a good translation of verse 21 is how long will you hobble? How has running after an idol caused you to hobble or limp?
It has disabled me to be of full service to God, making my relationship with God so much more difficult than it had/has to be.
6. Listen to Paige up to minute 31 just after she says “We are all following what we think is most true.”
A. The Israelites were trying to follow God and Baal. How do we do that with our idols?
We know it’s right to follow God but our idols/desires become more appealing.
B. What did Paige say is our rival religion? How does this apply to you?
Being worldly.
I wish I could hear her lecture at the school that warned her not to offend anyone but to be inclusive! It reminded me of when Mother Teresa was told not to speak about abortion at the National Prayer Breakfast and it was the first thing she addressed. Paige’s courage showed a victory over the idol of approval.
C. Why does she say we cannot just “like” God?
If we just “like” God then we’re not all in. Our relationship with Him isn’t ultimately important. We aren’t willing to drop everything and follow Him and therefore we must make a choice, not just take a dip when it is convenient.
D. Baal was a specialist who didn’t claim authority over whole life. In contrast, what does Matthew 6:24 say?
We can’t serve 2 masters, as we will hate one and love the other, be devoted to one and despise the other. God must be our everything…He does claim authority over our whole life!
E. Paige said we can’t get away from “You are what you eat.” What did she mean? How does this apply to what or who we worship?
If we have a lack of consistency in following/serving the Lord, we’ll become who we are following/serving. Whatever we follow/serve is what we will worship.
F. What was her point concerning her conversation with the college student who said, “At least I know what is right.”
We may know what is right and true but if we’re not following that, then we’re following what we think is right and true. In other words we’re following our own truth! If it feels good, do it.
G. Has anyone ever asked you, “Can I do _______________and still be a Christian?” If so, how did you or how would you answer?
If you still want to do those things then you need to ask yourself what is more important…following Jesus or the world?
So good from Sharon — especially the “dip” part!
If we just “like” God then we’re not all in. Our relationship with Him isn’t ultimately important. We aren’t willing to drop everything and follow Him and therefore we must make a choice, not just take a dip when it is convenient.
Sharon, this is so good! Whatever we follow/serve is what we will worship. Amen to Dee: Love the “dip” !
Thursday: The Setting
Read 1 Kings 18:1-15
A. Contrast the goals of Obadiah and Ahab. (verses 1-6)
B. What is Obadiah’s fear and how does Elijah reassure him? (verses 7-15)
Obadiah feared for his life since Ahab is looking for Elijah and if Obadiah does not tell Ahab where Elijah is, he will kill Obadiah. Elijah reassured him by saying he will show himself to Ahab.
Click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIXtjlGA1Ok and watch to 14:39 where she says pick up with me in verse 16.
2. Paige reviews the setting and gives some principles for Biblical interpretation.
A. What does she remind us about all the kings in the Northern Kingdom and about Ahab?
B. That they followed the sins of Rehoboam doing evil and Ahab was the worst of them all in the history of Israel.
C. What do we learn about God through his bringing Elijah and Elisha at this time?
That He is faithful in pursuing His people and Elijah and Elisha will be the megaphones of his covenantal relationship with the Israelites.
3. We must understand what a passage means before we can apply it.
A. What do you find out about God through His sending Elijah at this dark time and how is this relevant to us?
God continues to pursue His people then as He is doing now.
B. She said Elijah is not about giftedness, but about faithfulness. How does this apply to you? (Be specific)
I cannot dwell on what I believe are my strengths. I need to be faithful to what God has called me to do ad He will be faithful to provide what I need to do His purposes in my life.
4. What was her point about her story of the inebriated cousin looking for a “real woman?”
We look for something that we think is the real thing and when we think we have found it, it is not what we expect. I can look to something that I think would give me real joy or meaning in life and when I get it, it fails to deliver what I was looking for.
Saturday
7. Read 1 Kings 18:22-27
A. How many prophets will call to Baal? 450. How many to God? 1
B. Baal was the God of fire — what is the irony here?
The 450 prophets were to ask Baal to provide the fire for the altar, given all day to do this and nothing happened.
C. When Baal does nothing, what does Elijah suggest his followers do? (verse 27)
Shout louder!
8. Listen to Paige up to minute 45:08 after she gives David Powlison’s definition of idolatry.
A. The contest is to show the people if the choices they are making are the right choices. For whatever choices you are making for your life in parenting, finances, eating, whatever, you should ask, “Is Jesus the Son of God?” Why should you ask that?
This is the first question we should ask before making choices about our life, parenting, finances etc, because it makes us stop and think about choosing Him first and allow Him to direct us in making the right choices. It puts everything into perspective.
B. What was her point with her story of a night at the lake with friends and the girl who didn’t want to stop playing a game until she lost to Paige?
This story made me smile😄. As much as Paige was trying to give her friend an advantage to beat her at connect 4, God was giving Baal and his prophets the advantage in this contest.
C. How did Elijah stack the deck in Baal’s favor?
1. The place, Mt. Carmel was saved land for Baal
2. The agents, 450 Baal prophets vs. Elijah
3. The crowd, Ahab, all his court and the Israelites vs. Elijah
4. The equipment, Baal had a nice new flammable altar, first choice bull vs. a ruined inflammable altar with water soaked stones and wood with an overflowing trench all the way around.
5. Time frame, Baal’s prophets had all day vs. the length of one simple prayer
D. God loves to be at a disadvantage to show He wins. What examples from Scripture did she give?
Joseph going from prison to being ruling, Gideon defeating the Midianites, Daniel in the lions den and Jesus on the cross.
9. Is there an idol that you are finding victory over? How has God shown Himself so much better than that idol?
I am slowly gaining victory over my idol of approval as I already have God’s approval and that is so much more satisfying.
Friday: How Long Will You Limp?
5. Read 1 Kings 18:16-21
A. What does Elijah ask Ahab to do and why?
To summon the prophets of Baal and Asherah to meet him at Mt. Carmel. It is showdown time!
A. Paige said a good translation of verse 21 is how long will you hobble? How has running after an idol caused you to hobble or limp?
Hobble means to walk in an awkward way of walking, typically due to pain from an injury.
To limp means to walk with difficulty.
Running after an idol can put me in a physical and spiritual frenzy. Just when I think I have caught up with it, my idol moves further away. and I would hobble if I refuse to see the spiritual injury in my heart (the sin beneath the sin). Until that is taken care of, I cannot walk freely.
6. Listen to Paige up to minute 31 just after she says “We are all following what we think is most true.”
A. The Israelites were trying to follow God and Baal. How do we do that with our idols?
We want to keep our idols nearby just in case God does not deliver. We also want to keep God nearby just in case our idols do not deliver. God can become our Baal.
B. What did Paige say is our rival religion? How does this apply to you?
Our rival religion is worldliness. I cannot be straddling the fence. One foot in Christianity so I can call on God when it suits us; the other foot in the world since I live in it and would be tempted to fit in.
I wish I could hear her lecture at the school that warned her not to offend anyone but to be inclusive! It reminded me of when Mother Teresa was told not to speak about abortion at the National Prayer Breakfast and it was the first thing she addressed. Paige’s courage showed a victory over the idol of approval.
C. Why does she say we cannot just “like” God?
We cannot just like God because we have to make a commitment to Him and follow him even if we do not like what He tells us to do.
D. Baal was a specialist who didn’t claim authority over whole life. In contrast, what does Matthew 6:24 say?
No one can serve 2 masters. Either you will hate the one and love the others, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
E. Paige said we can’t get away from “You are what you eat.” What did she mean? How does this apply to what or who we worship?
We worship what we follow.
F. What was her point concerning her conversation with the college student who said, “At least I know what is right.”
It is not enough to know what is right. We must follow what is right. You follow what you think is most true.
G. Has anyone ever asked you, “Can I do _______________and still be a Christian?” If so, how did you or how would you answer?
I would often say, “why don’t we look at what the Word of God say?” and if they do not want to look into the Word of God, then they have made their choice.
7. Read 1 Kings 18:22-27
A. How many prophets will call to Baal? How many to God?
450. One.
B. Baal was the God of fire — what is the irony here?
God answered with fire.
A. When Baal does nothing, what does Elijah suggest his followers do? (verse 27)
He mocked them and asked the to shout louder.
8. Listen to Paige up to minute 45:08 after she gives David Powlison’s definition of idolatry.
A. The contest is to show the people if the choices they are making are the right choices. For whatever choices you are making for your life in parenting, finances, eating, whatever, you should ask, “Is Jesus the Son of God?” Why should you ask that?
If Jesus is the son of God, then we must trust Him to be Lord over everything in our lives.
B. What was her point with her story of a night at the lake with friends and the girl who didn’t want to stop playing a game until she lost to Paige?
Not sure?
C. How did Elijah stack the deck in Baal’s favor?
There were 450 prophets of Baal to Elijah’s one. Elijah did not have a crowd but the prophets had the king and his cohorts in Baal’s box; Baal’s wood was dry and Isaiah was very, very wet. Baal’s prophets had all day to cry to Baal and Elijah had one prayer.
B. God loves to be at a disadvantage to show He wins. What examples from Scripture did she give?
Joseph, Daniel, Jesus.
9. Is there an idol that you are finding victory over? How has God shown Himself so much better than that idol?
Yes, my idol of approval. God approves of me always because I am hidden in Christ. He sees Jesus in my place when I blow it. I am the apple of His eye. Others, not so much. I am only approved by other people when I meet their expectations. And even if I do, there are always more expectations. Approval of man always leaves some notion of “is this all there is to it?” Approval of God always brings joy and peace.
Bing, I love your answer to #9…I am hidden in Christ, Amen!
Beautiful from Bing:
God approves of me always because I am hidden in Christ. He sees Jesus in my place when I blow it. I am the apple of His eye. Others, not so much. I am only approved by other people when I meet their expectations. And even if I do, there are always more expectations. Approval of man always leaves some notion of “is this all there is to it?” Approval of God always brings joy and peace.
Amen to Dee!! What a powerful and meaningful statement, Bing! I need this where I can read it daily!
God Hunt Sunday:
3 big things this week:
I was struck by Paige’s comment that to find our idol we should “follow the frenzy.” I always obsess about seeing the dermatologist for she makes me look so awful for weeks. I care far to much about my appearance and get in a frenzy.
Had an anointed retreat on Washington Island with a dear group of women who were so hungry.
My dear friend Ann has a battle with cancer, but a pretty successful ten hour surgery at Mayos. Covet prayer for her.
Dee, “frenzy” has taken on a new perspective for me. I feel like I will be asking myself from now on, “Are you in a frenzy, Bing?” What “frenzy” am I following?”
Thankful for your time on Washington Island and the successful surgery of your friend, Ann.
So thankful for your anointed retreat, Dee. I will pray for Ann. Thankful her surgery went well.
Thank you Bing and Patti!
So glad your retreat went well, I will be praying for your friend Ann.
I had my 2 little grandsons all last week, it was fun but exhuasting! Will try to stay focused on answering your questions and spending more time in prayer digesting all the information and notes from Paiges’ teaching.
Praying now for Ann, Dee. So thankful for these mercies!
Sunday: God Hunt Sunday
10. How are you or have you experienced the risenness of Christ this week?
This past week has been hectic, but I have experienced God’s peace as He guided me through the decisions I must make. And once I made a particular decision, I sensed His smile. There is less hesitancy and second-guessing on my part about what to do next.
I worked hard on a recommendation letter for a student who would receive a significant amount of scholarship if her application is approved. When I got done, I sent it to several in my organization to look over. Though I struggled again with wanting approval, God continually reminded me that He is all that matters, and I knew He has guided me when I wrote the letter. I would normally have stewed over people’s comments.
She’s blessed to have you in her corner, Bing.
7. Read 1 Kings 18:22-27
A. How many prophets will call to Baal? How many to God?
450 prophets call to Baal. Elijah is the only prophet calling to God.
B. Baal was the God of fire — what is the irony here?
Baal did not produce fire in the best of all conditions.
C. When Baal does nothing, what does Elijah suggest his followers do? (verse 27)
“Call out with a loud voice, for he is a god; either he is occupied or gone aside, or is on a journey, or perhaps he is asleep and needs to be awakened.”
8. Listen to Paige up to minute 45:08 after she gives David Powlison’s definition of idolatry.
A. The contest is to show the people if the choices they are making are the right choices. For whatever choices you are making for your life in parenting, finances, eating, whatever, you should ask, “Is Jesus the Son of God?” Why should you ask that?
It confirms that Jesus is the one we need to consult about everything we do. He is our Lord and will direct us in the choices we make. He is the only One we need approval from. I want each decision I make to be from Him and point to Him.
B. What was her point with her story of a night at the lake with friends and the girl who didn’t want to stop playing a game until she lost to Paige?
Paige was trying to give her friend every advantage to win the game….
C. How did Elijah stack the deck in Baal’s favor?
Elijah made sure that the worshipers of Baal had every advantage: On a sacred mountain, 450 prophets, the king and his court all on the side of Baal, new altar and choice bull, dry wood, Baal’s “special power of the thunderbolt, all day long to wait for Baal to act ~ Yet, Elijah did all according to the Word of the Lord.
D. God loves to be at a disadvantage to show He wins. What examples from Scripture did she give?
Joseph in prison just before he becomes ruler of Egypt.
Gideon, with only 300 men defeated the Midianites.
Daniel being thrown in the lions’ den.
Jesus on the Cross.
9. Is there an idol that you are finding victory over? How has God shown Himself so much better than that idol?
Yes. The Lord is helping me to let go of my idol or approval and my idol of fear. I need to sit back and wait on the Lord. I stayed silent in a matter that I wanted to defend and the Lord answered my prayer in an amazing way. It was a huge lesson and it happened this week during this lesson!
Looks like we all can pray for one another’s idols of approval!
7. Read 1 Kings 18:22-27
A. How many prophets will call to Baal? How many to God?
450 for Baal, one for God.
B. Baal was the God of fire — what is the irony here?
If he was the god of fire, then why couldn’t they summon him to start the fire?
C. When Baal does nothing, what does Elijah suggest his followers do? (verse 27)
He suggests they shout louder.
8. Listen to Paige up to minute 45:08 after she gives David Powlison’s definition of idolatry.
A. The contest is to show the people if the choices they are making are the right choices. For whatever choices you are making for your life in parenting, finances, eating, whatever, you should ask, “Is Jesus the Son of God?” Why should you ask that?
We are called to live in the world but not be of the world. If the world loves us then we are in the world, not with Jesus.
If He is (the Son), then what does that mean for everything else? Are they the right choices?
B. What was her point with her story of a night at the lake with friends and the girl who didn’t want to stop playing a game until she lost to Paige?
She was trying to let the friend win. SHe was “stacking” the game to the friend’s advantage. This is what was happening with the “contest” the Elijah and Baal’s prophets were to accomplish.
C. How did Elijah stack the deck in Baal’s favor?
Mount Carmel was on the borderland, a sacred mountain for the Baal cult.
There are 450 prophets!
He has the king and all of his court with him.
The equipment: a flammable altar and the best bull.
Baal should be able to make a fire since that is his specialty (!).
All day long to have this occur.
D. God loves to be at a disadvantage to show He wins. What examples from Scripture did she give?
Joseph imprisoned before he is on the throne
Gideon before he defeats the Midianite hoards
Daniel thrown into the fire
Jesus on the cross
9. Is there an idol that you are finding victory over? How has God shown Himself so much better than that idol?
I am trying, but it’s not necessarily what I would call “victory.” He has given me another issue to focus on instead of the idol. It shows me He is in charge though. He is showing me joy in my life through giving up this idol.
10. How are you or have you experienced the risenness of Christ this week?
I have taught for a very long time now. We had our usual “open house” last week, but this time I was not anxious at all. Usually, I have a slight pit in my stomach; I’m crossing the “T’s” and dotting the “i’s.” I felt comfortable in my own shoes. In fact I am feeling that way all around in school. It’s like I have “arrived!” Whew….it sure took a long time!
That’s real progress!
I love this, Laura! God is so good! I know that you are an amazing teacher!
Praise the Lord! Laura, you are a daughter of the Most High King! I have been feeling more grounded in Christ too, I believe as a result of the prayers and study in God’s Word!🙏🧡🙏
Yay, Laura! That is a good feeling!
11. Read 1 Kings 18:28-29 and describe the frenzy.
The people loudly shouted, they cut themselves, they “…raved all afternoon.”
12. Listen from 45:08 to 57:08 when she says “You have to go looking in a completely different place for the problem.”
A. The New Testament switches from the language of idols to the language of desires, and often they are good things that have taken the rightful place of God. How has that been true in your life?
Work, food, drink, exercise, dance, kids, ? Whatever I want to “make” me happy.
B. She says a sure way to find your idols is to follow the frenzy. How have you seen that with an idol in your life — you expected to meet your need, but it didn’t, and you are undone. Give examples.
I would say that would have been my children. Oh! how I was frantic!
C. Why was there no answer from Baal? (verse 29)
He can’t. Only God can. Baal was nonexistent. Our idols are “nonexistent.”
D. Calvin said our hearts are perpetual idol-making factories. Is that true in your life? How has an awareness of this helped you?
It’s me against God…it is to reveal our hearts. Reflection is important. We must confront the idols wrong place in our heart. We must remember that Jesus is our life. Whatever it is, remember to keep it in perspective. Jesus is our life, not food, not drink, not straight A’s, not the job promotion, not _______.
E. What are some ways you can help your children when they are in a frenzy about an admission letter, a friend, or a sport?
To remind them that Jesus is our life.
F. What devastation has come to your life as a result of following an idol?
Our children are somewhat “hostile,” not loving, the weight problem still exists, the _______ is still a problem. Ugh.
G. Does anything else stand out to you?
Belonging to God means “no frenzy.” Peace.
10. How are you or have you experienced the risenness of Christ this week?
Spending time with our granddaughter, Hannah, was such a blessing. We prayed together and talked for hours about life, choosing a godly spouse and family life. She has a very nice Christian boyfriend, who really loves Jesus in all he does and says. So refreshing! We had fun shopping for autumn items for her home and continued the shopping via face time when she got back home.
11. Read 1 Kings 18:28-29 and describe the frenzy. They shouted louder and slashed themselves with swords and spears until the blood flowed. They continued their frantic prophesying…but there was no response, no one answered, no one paid attention.
12. Listen from 45:08 to 57:08 when she says “You have to go looking in a completely different place for the problem.”
A. The New Testament switches from the language of idols to the language of desires, and often they are good things that have taken the rightful place of God. How has that been true in your life? Looking back, I can see that my husband and children were often in the place of God in my heart and motivating my actions.
B. She says a sure way to find your idols is to follow the frenzy. How have you seen that with an idol in your life — you expected to meet your need, but it didn’t, and you are undone. Give examples. When I was a young teen, I had the oportunity to get a great education in Music at my churches private college in San Diego, I competeted in writing and performing my original music. But, I had a boyfriend that I had allowed into my heart, where my Lord should have been. He was jealous of my talent and did not want me to go away to school. He undermined my confidence and faith to the point that I gave up on the plans that God had given me. A year later the boyfriend had moved on and I lost my oportunity.
C. Why was there no answer from Baal? (verse 29) Because there was no answerer! Baal was a fake!
D. Calvin said our hearts are perpetual idol-making factories. Is that true in your life? How has an awareness of this helped you? Yes, it is true. I am praying that this awareness will help me to follow Jesus more nearly, love Him more dearly,see Him more clearly. E. What are some ways you can help your children when they are in a frenzy about an admission letter, a friend, or a sport? I can pray with them and ask the Lord to be first in their lives as well as mine.
F. What devastation has come to your life as a result of following an idol? When my husband died I felt an extreme loss of purpose for awhile. But God got my attention and He began to show me my real purpose in Him…I am still single, for that reason. I am sure God doesnt want me to put anyone else in His place.
G. Does anything else stand out to you? “Is illegitimate rationalization driving us?” If I do 40 days if praise, volunteer to lead a focused prayer group…maybe then God will answer me and give me what I want? I call this “let’s make a deal” prayer. I have found myself doing this in desparate circumstances. I know this line of thinking is not from our Lord. I start out great every morning, focused on the Lord after devotions and prayer and somewhere in the process of the day find myself on the wrong path in my thoughts. Lord Jesus help me to lay down any vain thing that attempts to be greater than You in my life.
Very honest answer to G — I think most of us have been there!
Amen to Dee!
This is so good, Lydia! Thank you! Lord Jesus help me to lay down any vain thing that attempts to be greater than You in my life.
Monday: Follow the Frenzy
11. Read 1 Kings 18:28-29 and describe the frenzy.
The priests of Baal were shouting loud and louder and slashed and cut themselves till their blood flowed.
12. Listen from 45:08 to 57:08 when she says “You have to go looking in a completely different place for the problem.”
A. The New Testament switches from the language of idols to the language of desires, and often they are good things that have taken the rightful place of God. How has that been true in your life?
My job and my ministry and in raising our daughter. These are good things but they can easily be consuming and have left me with no margin in my life at various times. Someone once said to “keep white spaces” on your calendar to give oneself breathing space. Dr. Swenson’s book on Margin was an eye-opener for me years ago. I still struggle with it periodically but not as I used to.
B. She says a sure way to find your idols is to follow the frenzy. How have you seen that with an idol in your life — you expected to meet your need, but it didn’t, and you are undone. Give examples.
I was guilty of helicopter parenting when my daughter was little. I kept watch over her and felt deep disappointment when something happens to her. I stewed over what I could have done better, and it was very emotionally draining. Pride and approval of many was my idol. The enemy kept me in his grip with guilt every time I blew it.
C. Why was there no answer from Baal? (verse 29)
Because there was no answerer. Baal is non-existent!
D. Calvin said our hearts are perpetual idol-making factories. Is that true in your life? How has an awareness of this helped you?
I jump from approval to control to comfort. Being aware of it and its signs and symptoms helps me to nip it in the bud. And by this, I mean, not a quick turnaround but a steady humming prompt from the Spirit that it is not God’s ways I am following. Now I have the word “frenzy” to catch my attention.
A good verse that comes to mind is: “You will hear a voice behind you saying, “This is the way. Follow it, whether it turns to the right or to the left.” Then you will dishonor your silver-plated idols and your gold-covered statues. You will throw them away like clothing ruined by stains. You will say to them, “Get out!” Isaiah 30: 21-22
A. What are some ways you can help your children when they are in a frenzy about an admission letter, a friend, or a sport?
Agree that they have done their best, they invested effort in what they want to do but they must remember it is all about Jesus. Jesus in them. We have an audience of One.
“This is not your life; Jesus is your life.
Whether this person likes you or not does not make you.”
F. What devastation has come to your life as a result of following an idol?
Fractured relationships
B. Does anything else stand out to you?
Baal is non-existent; he is an imagination. My idol is me.
Great verse from Isaiah — throw them away like stained clothes!
13. Read 1 Kings 18:30-39
A. How does Elijah pray? (36-37)
He prays using the forefathers’ names. He begs God to show Himself to the people to prove who He is.
B. What happened and how did the people respond?
God strikes the altar. He makes Himself known! The people are convinced that He is Lord and they agree to follow Him again.
Awake early this morning and finished listening to Paige’s teaching. Then did a cursory read of comments. I long to just jump back in to the discussion here but it has been kind of physically and emotionally exhausting the last few weeks since my mother had her heart attack. She was in the hospital for over a week and then we had to find a skilled nursing facility that would take her. She is now in one in a small town about 20 minutes from me and 20 minutes from my sister. Next week God willing Mom will turn 98 years old. She is stable and coherent but bedfast and on hospice. Our goal is to keep her comfortable. She maintains a sweet spirit which is a testimony of Jesus in her life. My sister and I have started emptying Mom’s apartment where she has lived the last 7 years. For the time being we are pulled in several directions and on the road a lot. Like Bing mentioned in one of her comments she will never look at frenzy the same again without asking in relationship to idols. I was impressed with that point in Paige’s teaching this morning and the thought that I need to follow the frenzy so that I am aware of what my idols are. And to commit and submit to the authority of Jesus for my life and there I can experience his peace. I am going to a Women’s Bible study at my church this morning because I have a new neighbor who has agreed to attend with me. She is a younger widow and I sense she needs Jesus in her life. Her husband died of cancer two years ago and she just moved here from another state. She tells me he had a strong faith but she has little knowledge of the things of the Lord herself. Trusting God to work. So appreciate this group and your prayers.
Bev, You have so much on your plate. Prayers for you and your sister, as you care for your mom. So thankful that she knows and loves Jesus. What a blessing you are for your new neighbor; praying that she comes to know Jesus.
Bev — I agree with Patti and her prayer!
I am praying for you Bev, as you lean into Jesus for strength in this journey. Just call on His Name, He will never leave you. So glad you have your sister’s help, what a blessing you are to your dear Mother.
Keeping you in my prayers Bev. ♥️
Monday
11. Read 1 Kings 18:28-29 and describe the frenzy.
After they had called, danced and hobbled to summon Baal and got no answer, they started shouting louder and cutting themselves with knives and swords (which was a normal custom) until blood gushed out. They raved all afternoon til the evening sacrifice, but still no response.
12. Listen from 45:08 to 57:08 when she says “You have to go looking in a completely different place for the problem.”
A. The New Testament switches from the language of idols to the language of desires, and often they are good things that have taken the rightful place of God. How has that been true in your life?
My desire for approval has been my idol for quite some time and honestly doing studies with Dee brought this to the forefront, thanks Dee😜!!! Anyway, to get back on track, my daughter was a very stubborn and as Dr Dobson would say, “strong willed” child! I would get so embarrassed when she would show that side of herself, and I would get very angry! I always wondered what ppl thought of me, such as, “she has no control over her daughter, she’s not a very good mother”…etc. Looking back and reading that just makes me cringe but also makes me realize how gracious God has been with me and the baby steps I have made in replacing Him with that idol/desire. It really shows the “me” when using desire!!!
B. She says a sure way to find your idols is to follow the frenzy. How have you seen that with an idol in your life — you expected to meet your need, but it didn’t, and you are undone. Give examples.
See answer to A 😏 I have more examples but then you’d all think I lived my life in a frenzy! The idol of approval has never met my need…ugh!!
C. Why was there no answer from Baal? (verse 29)
Because there was no answerer…idols are non cooperative!
D. Calvin said our hearts are perpetual idol-making factories. Is that true in your life? Yes. How has an awareness of this helped you?
It has helped open my eyes and see the need to replace them with God. It just seems like it’s never ending but it is important that I’m aware.
E. What are some ways you can help your children when they are in a frenzy about an admission letter, a friend, or a sport?
I remember when my daughter was waiting to hear if she passed the bar exam and I prayed with her and told her that whatever the outcome God was in control. I wished I had told her that whatever happens, her identity is found in Jesus, not if she passed/failed the bar.
F. What devastation has come to your life as a result of following an idol?
I will have to ponder this question.
G. Does anything else stand out to you?
I had to smile when she said, “most of our idols are things we can’t get rid of…got to get rid of my kids”😀😜. Being more aware of all this…I don’t want to get rid of my grandsons!!!
Thank you Dee, for these challenging and thought provoking questions.
You make me smile — you are so loveable.
I have not been able to participate like I used to, or like I long to, but I finally finished Paige’s lesson and I am continually amazed at how God uses her to blow me away and speak directly to my heart! The “follow the frenzy”–wow. And I love how she mentioned Powlison’s “Idols of the Heart and “Vanity Fair”” I think you first showed that to us Dee? I’ve had a hard copy of it that I have pulled out so many times, at least once a year, along with his “x-ray questions”, so powerful. So thankful for this lesson!
I too love “follow the frenzy!” And I need to re-read Powlison’s Vanity Fair. Maybe we’ll do it on our “off” week!
13. Read 1 Kings 18:30-39
A. How does Elijah pray? (36-37) He calls God by His Covenant Names, God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel let it be known today that You are God in Israel and that I am Your servant and have done all these things at Your command. Answer me oh Lord, answer me. So these people will know that You are God and that You are turning their hearts back again.
B. What happened and how did the people respond? Then the fire of the Lord fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench.
The people fell on their faces and cried “the Lord He is God, the Lord He is God”!
14. Listen to the end of Paige’s lecture.
A. Where did the fire fall, and where didn’t it fall? How does this relate to Jesus? That the fire fell, shows He is God. Where the fire fell, shows us His will. It did not fall on the people, it fell on the sacrifice. Jesus is the Sacrifice, the substitute for me. The cross was a transfer, He bore my sin in my place.
B. What did she mean when she said “God does not forgive sin, He forgives sinners?” God forgives sinners, sin has to be paid for by a substitution. Jesus paid it ALL! Every other God says “slash yourself for me”! Jesus is the only God who slashed Himself for me.
C. Contrast what our idols ask with what God asks. Every other idol or god says “slash yourself for me”! God says “I will slash Myself for you” and thus Jesus died on a Roman Cross for my sins.
D. What stood out to you from her reading of The Silver Chair? It breaks my heart for unbelievers who are so desperately thirsty for God, but terrified of Him(surrender to Him) to the point of dying without Him. I love the Chronicles of Narnia! My Mother read them with me when I was young and I read them to my children…so many precious Truths!
What a great heritage you have, Lydia.
Tuesday
13. Read 1 Kings 18:30-39
A. How does Elijah pray? (36-37)
”O LORD, God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (the covenant God), prove today that You are God in Israel and I am your servant. Prove I have done all the things You commanded. O LORD, answer me! Answer me so these people will know that You are God and that You have brought them back to Yourself.”
B. What happened and how did the people respond?
Immediately the fire of the LORD flashed down from heaven and burned up the young bull, the wood, the stones and the dust. It even licked up the water in the trench.
The people fell face down on the ground and cried out, “The LORD – He is God! Yes, the LORD is God!”
14. Listen to the end of Paige’s lecture.
A. Where did the fire fall, and where didn’t it fall?
It fell only on the altar and not on the people.
How does this relate to Jesus?
The fire consumed the substitute just as Christ is our substitute and He was consumed by the wrath of God, not me. He was condemned in my place and bore the fullness of the fire.
B. What did she mean when she said “God does not forgive sin, He forgives sinners?”
He can’t pay for sin because it had to be paid for. The cross didn’t cancel sin, it transferred it to Christ so the sinner could be forgiven.
C. Contrast what our idols ask with what God asks.
Our idols ask us to slash ourselves, in other words, they ask us to jump through different hoops to be accepted, to be heard, to be loved etc. God says, I sent My Son Jesus to be slashed for you and therefore I am all you need, it’s paid in full!
D. What stood out to you from her reading of The Silver Chair?
Knowing all that God has done for me is not the same as giving myself to God. All I have to do is bring Him my thirst. Praise the Lord! Amen!!
14. Listen to the end of Paige’s lecture.
A. Where did the fire fall, and where didn’t it fall? How does this relate to Jesus?
The fire fell on Elijah’s bull, not on them. It fell on the sacrifice. It is just like Jesus. The “fire” fell on Jesus, not us.
B. What did she mean when she said “God does not forgive sin, He forgives sinners?”
Then cross was a transfer. Everything I deserved was put on Jesus. Sin must be paid for somehow.
C. Contrast what our idols ask with what God asks.
The idols all say to “slash yourself for me.” Only Lord Jesus says, “I have slashed myself for you.”
D. What stood out to you from her reading of The Silver Chair?
When Aslan says, “There is no other stream.” If anyone is thirsty come and drink. She made me cry at the end 😢. So sweet Lord, thank You.
This week has been crazy busy at my house, my son, his wife and 4 children are staying with us as they are having sewer problems and can’t get anyone to come out for a week. I did get to listen to all of Paige’s study this week, though. My favorite take away is the encouragement near the end. “This (idol/thing you want) isn’t your life, Jesus is your life.”
That does sound crazy/busy! Good you listened though.
15. What is your takeaway and why?
Paige said idols are a matter of the heart and that we humans are idol making factories. After comitting this question to prayer of “what is my takeaway and why” I feel the Lord encouraging me to be more aware of my own heart and face my fears qnd failings with Him. Keeping my eyes on Jesus all day, every day so that no person, place or thing will take His place in my heart.
Great!