“The Contest” recalls the dramatic confrontation on Mount Carmel between the Prophet Elijah and the prophets of Baal. During a time when many Israelites had turned to false gods, Elijah challenged the people to choose between the Lord and the idols they had begun to worship. To reveal the true God, Elijah proposed a contest: both sides would prepare a sacrifice, but neither would light the fire. The god who answered by fire would be recognized as the true God.
The prophets of Baal prayed throughout the day, but no answer came. Elijah then repaired the altar of the Lord, drenched the sacrifice with water, and called upon God in faith. Immediately, fire descended from heaven and consumed the sacrifice, the wood, the stones, and even the water surrounding the altar. Witnessing this miracle, the people fell to the ground and proclaimed, “The Lord, he is God!”
The contest demonstrated God’s supremacy over false gods and called Israel back to faithfulness and worship of the one true Lord.
3 Kings 18:20–24
Elijah challenges the prophets of Baal to determine the true God.
3 Kings 18:25–29
The prophets of Baal call upon their god, but receive no answer.
3 Kings 18:30–39
Elijah offers his sacrifice, and fire descends from heaven.
3 Kings 18:39
The people proclaim, “The Lord, He is God! The Lord, He is God!”
Illustration by: Colton Rompala