EGW Writings1 Kings 18
Ellen G. White · Page 1 of 2
Read 1 Kings 18 in the Bible1 Kings 18:1-19
Prophets and Kings
Chapter 10—The Voice of Stern Rebuke
PK 129.1
For a time Elijah remained hidden in the mountains by the brook Cherith. There for many months he was miraculously provided with food. Later on, when, because of the continued drought, the brook became dry, God bade His servant find refuge in a heathen land. “Arise,” He bade him, “get thee to Zarephath, [known in New Testament times as Sarepta], which belongeth to Zidon, and dwell there: behold, I have commanded a widow woman there to sustain thee.”PK 129.2
This woman was not an Israelite. She had never had the privileges and blessings that the chosen people of God had enjoyed; but she was a believer in the true God and had walked in all the light that was shining on her pathway. And now, when there was no safety for Elijah in the land of Israel, God sent him to this woman to find an asylum in her home.PK 129.3
“So he arose and went to Zarephath. And when he came to the gate of the city, behold, the widow woman was there gathering of sticks: and he called to her, and said, Fetch me, I pray thee, a little water in a vessel, that I may drink. And as she was going to fetch it, he called to her, and said, Bring me, I pray thee, a morsel of bread in thine hand.”PK 130.1
In this poverty-stricken home the famine pressed sore, and the pitifully meager fare seemed about to fail. The coming of Elijah on the very day when the widow feared that she must give up the struggle to sustain life tested to the utmost her faith in the power of the living God to provide for her necessities. But even in her dire extremity she bore witness to her faith by a compliance with the request of the stranger who was asking her to share her last morsel with him.PK 130.2
In response to Elijah’s request for food and drink, the widow said, “As the Lord thy God liveth, I have not a cake, but an handful of meal in a barrel, and a little oil in a cruse: and, behold, I am gathering two sticks, that I may go in and dress it for me and my son, that we may eat it, and die.” Elijah said to her, “Fear not; go and do as thou hast said: but make me thereof a little cake first, and bring it unto me, and after make for thee and for thy son. For thus saith the Lord of Israel, The barrel of meal shall not waste, neither shall the cruse of oil fail, until the day that the Lord sendeth rain upon the earth.”PK 130.3
No greater test of faith than this could have been required. The widow had hitherto treated all strangers with kindness and liberality. Now, regardless of the suffering that might result to herself and child, and trusting in the God of Israel to supply her every need, she met this supreme test of hospitality by doing “according to the saying of Elijah.”PK 131.1
Wonderful was the hospitality shown to God’s prophet by this Phoenician woman, and wonderfully were her faith and generosity rewarded. “She, and he, and her house, did eat many days. And the barrel of meal wasted not, neither did the cruse of oil fail, according to the word of the Lord, which He spake by Elijah.PK 131.2
“And it came to pass after these things, that the son of the woman, the mistress of the house, fell sick; and his sickness was so sore, that there was no breath left in him. And she said unto Elijah, What have I to do with thee, O thou man of God? art thou come unto me to call my sin to remembrance, and to slay my son?PK 131.3
“And he said unto her, Give me thy son. And he took him out of her bosom, and carried him up into a loft, where he abode, and laid him upon his own bed.... And he stretched himself upon the child three times, and cried unto the Lord.... And the Lord heard the voice of Elijah; and the soul of the child came into him again, and he revived.PK 131.4
“And Elijah took the child, and brought him down out of the chamber into the house, and delivered him unto his mother: and Elijah said, See, thy son liveth. And the woman said to Elijah, Now by this I know that thou art a man of God, and that the word of the Lord in thy mouth is truth.”PK 131.5
The widow of Zarephath shared her morsel with Elijah, and in return her life and that of her son were preserved. And to all who, in time of trial and want, give sympathy and assistance to others more needy, God has promised great blessing. He has not changed. His power is no less now than in the days of Elijah. No less sure now than when spoken by our Saviour is the promise, “He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward.” Matthew 10:41.PK 132.1
“Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” Hebrews 13:2. These words have lost none of their force through the lapse of time. Our heavenly Father still continues to place in the pathway of His children opportunities that are blessings in disguise; and those who improve these opportunities find great joy. “If thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday: and the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.” Isaiah 58:10, 11.PK 132.2
To His faithful servants today Christ says, “He that receiveth you receiveth Me, and he that receiveth Me receiveth Him that sent Me.” No act of kindness shown in His name will fail to be recognized and rewarded. And in the same tender recognition Christ includes even the feeblest and lowliest of the family of God. “Whosoever shall give to drink,” He says, “unto one of these little ones”—those who are as children in their faith and their knowledge of Christ—“a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.” Matthew 10:40, 42.PK 133.1
Through the long years of drought and famine, Elijah prayed earnestly that the hearts of Israel might be turned from idolatry to allegiance to God. Patiently the prophet waited, while the hand of the Lord rested heavily on the stricken land. As he saw evidences of suffering and want multiplying on every side, his heart was wrung with sorrow, and he longed for power to bring about a reformation quickly. But God Himself was working out His plan, and all that His servant could do was to pray on in faith and await the time for decided action.PK 133.2
The apostasy prevailing in Ahab’s day was the result of many years of evil-doing. Step by step, year after year, Israel had been departing from the right way. For generation after generation they had refused to make straight paths for their feet, and at last the great majority of the people had yielded themselves to the leadership of the powers of darkness.PK 133.3
About a century had passed since, under the rulership of King David, Israel had joyfully united in chanting hymns of praise to the Most High, in recognition of their entire dependence on Him for daily mercies. Listen to their words of adoration as then they sang:PK 133.4
“O God of our salvation, ...Thou makest the outgoings of the morning and evening to rejoice.
Thou visitest the earth, and waterest it:
Thou greatly enrichest it with the river of God, which is full of water:
Thou preparest them corn, when Thou hast so provided for it. Thou waterest the ridges thereof abundantly: Thou causest rain to descend into the furrows thereof:
Thou makest it soft with showers: Thou blessest the springing thereof.
Thou crownest the year with Thy goodness;
And Thy paths drop fatness.
They drop upon the pastures of the wilderness:
And the little hills rejoice on every side.
The pastures are clothed with flocks;
The valleys also are covered over with corn;
They shout for joy, they also sing.”Psalm 65:5, 8-13, margin.
PK 134.1
Israel had then recognized God as the One who “laid the foundations of the earth.” In expression of their faith they had sung:PK 134.2
“Thou coveredst it with the deep as with a garment:The waters stood above the mountains.
At Thy rebuke they fled;
At the voice of Thy thunder they hasted away.
They go up by the mountains; they go down by the valleys
Unto the place which Thou hast founded for them.
Thou hast set a bound that they may not pass over;
That they turn not again to cover the earth.” Psalm 104:5-9.
PK 134.3
It is by the mighty power of the Infinite One that the elements of nature in earth and sea and sky are kept within bounds. And these elements He uses for the happiness of His creatures. “His good treasure” is freely expended “to give the rain ... in his season, and to bless all the work” of man’s hands. Deuteronomy 28:12.PK 134.4
“He sendeth the springs into the valleys,Which run among the hills.
They give drink to every beast of the field:
The wild asses quench their thirst.
By them shall the fowls of the heaven have their habitation,
Which sing among the branches.... He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle,
And herb for the service of man:
That He may bring forth food out of the earth;
And wine that maketh glad the heart of man,
And oil to make his face to shine,
And bread which strengtheneth man’s heart....
PK 135.1
“O Lord, how manifold are Thy works!In wisdom has Thou made them all:
The earth is full of Thy riches.
So is this great and wide sea,
Wherein are things creeping innumerable,
Both small and great beasts....
These wait all upon Thee;
That Thou mayest give them their meat in due season.
That Thou givest them they gather:
PK 135.2
“Thou openest Thine hand,They are filled with good.” Psalm 104:10-15, 24-28.
PK 135.3
Israel had had abundant occasion for rejoicing. The land to which the Lord had brought them was a land flowing with milk and honey. During the wilderness wandering, God had assured them that He was guiding them to a country where they need never suffer for lack of rain. “The land, whither thou goest in to possess it,” He had told them, “is not as the land of Egypt, from whence ye came out, where thou sowedst thy seed, and wateredst it with thy foot, as a garden of herbs: but the land, whither ye go to possess it, is a land of hills and valleys, and drinketh water of the rain of heaven: a land which the Lord thy God careth for: the eyes of the Lord thy God are always upon it, from the beginning of the year even unto the end of the year.”PK 135.4
The promise of abundance of rain had been given on condition of obedience. “It shall come to pass,” the Lord had declared, “if ye shall hearken diligently unto My commandments which I command you this day, to love the Lord your God, and to serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul, that I will give you the rain of your land in his due season, the first rain and the latter rain, that thou mayest gather in thy corn, and thy wine, and thine oil. And I will send grass in thy fields for thy cattle, that thou mayest eat and be full.PK 136.1
“Take heed to yourselves,” the Lord had admonished His people, “that your heart be not deceived, and ye turn aside, and serve other gods, and worship them; and then the Lord’s wrath be kindled against you, and He shut up the heaven, that there be no rain, and that the land yield not her fruit; and lest ye perish quickly from off the good land which the Lord giveth you.” Deuteronomy 11:10-17.PK 136.2
“If thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe to do all His commandments and His statutes,” the Israelites had been warned, “thy heaven that is over thy head shall be brass, and the earth that is under thee shall be iron. The Lord shall make the rain of thy land powder and dust: from heaven shall it come down upon thee, until thou be destroyed.” Deuteronomy 28:15, 23, 24.PK 136.3
These were among the wise counsels of Jehovah to ancient Israel. “Lay up these My words in your heart and in your soul,” He had commanded His chosen people, “and bind them for a sign upon your hand, that they may be as frontlets between your eyes. And ye shall teach them your children, speaking of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.” Deuteronomy 11:18, 19. Plain were these commands, yet as the centuries passed, and generation after generation lost sight of the provision made for their spiritual welfare, the ruinous influences of apostasy threatened to sweep aside every barrier of divine grace.PK 137.1
Thus it had come to pass that God was now visiting His people with the severest of His judgments. The prediction of Elijah was meeting with terrible fulfillment. For three years the messenger of woe was sought for in city after city and nation after nation. At the mandate of Ahab, many rulers had given their oath of honor that the strange prophet could not be found in their dominions. Yet the search was continued, for Jezebel and the prophets of Baal hated Elijah with a deadly hatred, and they spared no effort to bring him within reach of their power. And still there was no rain.PK 137.2
At last, “after many days,” the word of the Lord came to Elijah, “Go, show thyself unto Ahab; and I will send rain upon the earth.”PK 137.3
In obedience to the command, “Elijah went to show himself unto Ahab.” About the time that the prophet set forth on his journey to Samaria, Ahab had proposed to Obadiah, the governor of his household, that they make thorough search for springs and brooks of water, in the hope of finding pasture for their starving flocks and herds. Even in the royal court the effect of the long-continued drought was keenly felt. The king, deeply concerned over the outlook for his household, decided to unite personally with his servant in a search for some favored spots where pasture might be had. “So they divided the land between them to pass throughout it: Ahab went one way by himself, and Obadiah went another way by himself.”PK 138.1
“As Obadiah was in the way, behold, Elijah met him: and he knew him, and fell on his face, and said, Art thou that my lord Elijah?”PK 138.2
During the apostasy of Israel, Obadiah had remained faithful. His master, the king, had been unable to turn him from his allegiance to the living God. Now he was honored with a commission from Elijah, who said, “Go, tell thy lord, Behold, Elijah is here.”PK 138.3
Greatly terrified, Obadiah exclaimed, “What have I sinned, that thou wouldest deliver thy servant into the hand of Ahab, to slay me?” To take such a message as this to Ahab was to court certain death. “As the Lord thy God liveth,” he explained to the prophet, “there is no nation or kingdom, whither my lord hath not sent to seek thee: and when they said, He is not there; he took an oath of the kingdom and nation, that they found thee not. And now thou sayest, Go, tell thy lord, Behold, Elijah is here. And it shall come to pass, as soon as I am gone from thee, that the Spirit of the Lord shall carry thee whither I know not; and so when I come and tell Ahab, and he cannot find thee, he shall slay me.”PK 138.4
Earnestly Obadiah pleaded with the prophet not to urge him. “I thy servant,” he urged, “fear the Lord from my youth. Was it not told my lord what I did when Jezebel slew the prophets of the Lord, how I hid an hundred men of the Lord’s prophets by fifty in a cave, and fed them with bread and water? And now thou sayest, Go, tell thy lord, Behold, Elijah is here: and he shall slay me.”PK 139.1
With a solemn oath Elijah promised Obadiah that the errand should not be in vain. “As the Lord of hosts liveth, before whom I stand,” he declared, “I will surely show myself unto him today.” Thus assured, “Obadiah went to meet Ahab, and told him.”PK 139.2
In astonishment mingled with terror the king listened to the message from the man whom he feared and hated, and for whom he had sought so untiringly. Well he knew that Elijah would not endanger his life merely for the sake of meeting him. Could it be possible that the prophet was about to utter another woe against Israel? The king’s heart was seized with dread. He remembered the withered arm of Jeroboam. Ahab could not avoid obeying the summons, neither dared he lift up his hand against the messenger of God. And so, accompanied by a bodyguard of soldiers, the trembling monarch went to meet the prophet.PK 139.3
The king and the prophet stand face to face. Though Ahab is filled with passionate hatred, yet in the presence of Elijah he seems unmanned, powerless. In his first faltering words, “Art thou he that troubleth Israel?” he unconsciously reveals the inmost feelings of his heart. Ahab knew that it was by the word of God that the heavens had become as brass, yet he sought to cast upon the prophet the blame for the heavy judgments resting on the land.PK 139.4
It is natural for the wrongdoer to hold the messengers of God responsible for the calamities that come as the sure result of a departure from the way of righteousness. Those who place themselves in Satan’s power are unable to see things as God sees them. When the mirror of truth is held up before them, they become indignant at the thought of receiving reproof. Blinded by sin, they refuse to repent; they feel that God’s servants have turned against them and are worthy of severest censure.PK 140.1
Standing in conscious innocence before Ahab, Elijah makes no attempt to excuse himself or to flatter the king. Nor does he seek to evade the king’s wrath by the good news that the drought is almost over. He has no apology to offer. Indignant, and jealous for the honor of God, he casts back the imputation of Ahab, fearlessly declaring to the king that it is his sins, and the sins of his fathers, that have brought upon Israel this terrible calamity. “I have not troubled Israel,” Elijah boldly asserts, “but thou, and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim.”PK 140.2
Today there is need of the voice of stern rebuke; for grievous sins have separated the people from God. Infidelity is fast becoming fashionable. “We will not have this man to reign over us,” is the language of thousands. Luke 19:14. The smooth sermons so often preached make no lasting impression; the trumpet does not give a certain sound. Men are not cut to the heart by the plain, sharp truths of God’s word.PK 140.3
There are many professed Christians who, if they should express their real feelings, would say, What need is there of speaking so plainly? They might as well ask, Why need John the Baptist have said to the Pharisees, “O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?” Luke 3:7. Why need he have provoked the anger of Herodias by telling Herod that it was unlawful for him to live with his brother’s wife? The forerunner of Christ lost his life by his plain speaking. Why could he not have moved along without incurring the displeasure of those who were living in sin?PK 141.1
So men who should be standing as faithful guardians of God’s law have argued, till policy has taken the place of faithfulness, and sin is allowed to go unreproved. When will the voice of faithful rebuke be heard once more in the church?PK 141.2
“Thou art the man.” 2 Samuel 12:7. Words as unmistakably plain as these spoken by Nathan to David are seldom heard in the pulpits of today, seldom seen in the public press. If they were not so rare, we should see more of the power of God revealed among men. The Lord’s messengers should not complain that their efforts are without fruit until they repent of their own love of approbation and their desire to please men, which leads them to suppress truth.PK 141.3
Those ministers who are men pleasers, who cry, Peace, peace, when God has not spoken peace, might well humble their hearts before God, asking pardon for their insincerity and their lack of moral courage. It is not from love for their neighbor that they smooth down the message entrusted to them, but because they are self-indulgent and ease-loving. True love seeks first the honor of God and the salvation of souls. Those who have this love will not evade the truth to save themselves from the unpleasant results of plain speaking. When souls are in peril, God’s ministers will not consider self, but will speak the word given them to speak, refusing to excuse or palliate evil.PK 142.1
Would that every minister might realize the sacredness of his office and the holiness of his work, and show the courage that Elijah showed! As divinely appointed messengers, ministers are in a position of awful responsibility. They are to “reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering.” 2 Timothy 4:2. In Christ’s stead they are to labor as stewards of the mysteries of heaven, encouraging the obedient and warning the disobedient. With them worldly policy is to have no weight. Never are they to swerve from the path in which Jesus has bidden them walk. They are to go forward in faith, remembering that they are surrounded by a cloud of witnesses. They are not to speak their own words, but words which One greater than the potentates of earth has bidden them speak. Their message is to be, “Thus saith the Lord.” God calls for men like Elijah, Nathan, and John the Baptist—men who will bear His message with faithfulness, regardless of the consequences; men who will speak the truth bravely, though it call for the sacrifice of all they have.PK 142.2
God cannot use men who, in time of peril, when the strength, courage, and influence of all are needed, are afraid to take a firm stand for the right. He calls for men who will do faithful battle against wrong, warring against principalities and powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. It is to such as these that He will speak the words: “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:23.1 Kings 18:1-20
Conflict and Courage
Elijah Before Ahab, July 21
CC 208.1
And he answered, I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim. 1 Kings 18:18.CC 208.2
Through the long years of drought and famine, Elijah prayed earnestly that the hearts of Israel might be turned from idolatry to allegiance to God. Patiently the prophet waited, while the hand of the Lord rested heavily on the stricken land....CC 208.3
At last, “after many days,” the word of the Lord came to Elijah, “Go, show thyself unto Ahab; and I will send rain upon the earth.” ...CC 208.4
The king and the prophet stand face to face. Though Ahab is filled with passionate hatred, yet in the presence of Elijah he seems unmanned, powerless. In his first faltering words, “Art thou he that troubleth Israel?” he unconsciously reveals the inmost feelings of his heart. Ahab knew that it was by the word of God that the heavens had become as brass, yet he sought to cast upon the prophet the blame for the heavy judgments resting on the land....CC 208.5
Standing in conscious innocence before Ahab, Elijah makes no attempt to excuse himself or to flatter the king. Nor does he seek to evade the king’s wrath by the good news that the drought is almost over. He has no apology to offer. Indignant, and jealous for the honor of God, he casts back the imputation of Ahab, fearlessly declaring to the king that it is his sins, and the sins of his fathers, that have brought upon Israel this terrible calamity....CC 208.6
Today there is need of the voice of stern rebuke; for grievous sins have separated the people from God.... The smooth sermons so often preached make no lasting impression; the trumpet does not give a certain sound. Men are not cut to the heart by the plain, sharp truths of God’s word....CC 208.7
God calls for men like Elijah, Nathan, and John the Baptist—men who will bear His message with faithfulness, regardless of the consequences; men who will speak the truth bravely, though it call for the sacrifice of all they have.38Prophets and Kings, 133-142.1 Kings 18:1-40
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 29, 1911
25LtMs, Ms 29, 1911, par. 38
“Go, show thyself unto Ahab,” God said to Elijah. When the king and the prophet met, Ahab said, “Art thou he that troubleth Israel?” It seemed to be a generally accepted belief that it was the prophets of God who were causing the trouble. But Elijah said, “I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim.” [1 Kings 18:1, 17, 18.]25LtMs, Ms 29, 1911, par. 40
Seeing this wonderful manifestation of power, Israel cried, “The Lord, He is God.” While their hearts were touched and softened by the miracle they had witnessed, Elijah took this opportune time to slay the false prophets. [Verses 39, 40.] Had he waited till morning, he would have found the whole aspect of things changed. Elijah knew that he must act promptly, and that very day the false prophets were slain.1 Kings 18:4
Prophets and Kings
Chapter 9—Elijah the Tishbite
PK 126.3
Failing in her efforts against Elijah, Jezebel determined to avenge herself by slaying all the prophets of Jehovah in Israel. Not one should be left alive. The infuriated woman carried out her purpose in the massacre of many of God’s servants. Not all, however, perished. Obadiah, the governor of Ahab’s house, yet faithful to God, “took an hundred prophets,” and at the risk of his own life, “hid them by fifty in a cave, and fed them with bread and water.” 1 Kings 18:4.From Splendor to Shadow
Priests of Baal Keep the People Deceived
SS 65.1
Failing in her efforts against Elijah, Jezebel determined to slay all the prophets of Jehovah. The infuriated woman massacred many; but not all perished. Obadiah, the governor of Ahab’s house, “took an hundred prophets,” and at the risk of his own life, “hid them by fifty in a cave, and fed them with bread and water.” 1 Kings 18:4.1 Kings 18:17
The Great Controversy
Chapter 6—Huss and Jerome
GC 104.1
Again the city of Prague seemed on the verge of a bloody conflict. As in former ages, God’s servant was accused as “he that troubleth Israel.” 1 Kings 18:17. The city was again placed under interdict, and Huss withdrew to his native village. The testimony so faithfully borne from his loved chapel of Bethlehem was ended. He was to speak from a wider stage, to all Christendom, before laying down his life as a witness for the truth.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 6—Huss and Jerome
GC88 103.4
Again the city of Prague seemed on the verge of a bloody conflict. As in former ages, God’s servant was accused as “he that troubleth Israel” [1 Kings 18:17.] The city was again placed under interdict, and Huss withdrew to his native village. The testimony so faithfully borne from his loved chapel of Bethlehem was ended. He was to speak from a wider stage, to all Christendom, before laying down his life as a witness for the truth.From Here to Forever
Prague Placed Under Interdict
HF 64.4
Again Prague seemed on the verge of a bloody conflict. As in former ages, God’s servant was accused as “he that troubleth Israel.” 1 Kings 18:17. The city was again placed under interdict, and Huss withdrew to his native village. He was to speak from a wider stage, to all Christendom, before laying down his life as a witness for truth.Homeward Bound
Troublers of the People, November 15
HB 348.1
Then it happened, when Ahab saw Elijah, that Ahab said to him, “Is that you, O troubler of Israel?”—1 Kings 18:17.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 5, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 5, 1901, par. 14
Brother Burden’s qualifications would have been of great value here, but when he was connected with the Retreat, his labors were not appreciated. He was regarded somewhat as Ahab regarded Elijah when he asked him, “Art thou he that troubleth Israel?” [1 Kings 18:17.] We knew that we could not change the sentiments of those at the Retreat regarding Brother Burden, and that Australia greatly needed him, so we reluctantly let him go.1 Kings 18:17-18
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 40a, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 40a, 1890, par. 103
Let us look at the case of Elijah. The time has come when he must meet his mortal enemy, the cruel Ahab, the despot of Israel, the apostate from the religion of his fathers. In anger the king inquires, “Art thou he that troubleth Israel?” [1 Kings 18:17.] Does Elijah weaken before the king? Does he cringe and cower, and resort to flattery in order to soothe the feelings of the enraged ruler?6LtMs, Ms 40a, 1890, par. 104
Israel has perverted her way, and forsaken the path of allegiance to God, and now shall the prophet, to preserve his life, betray sacred, holy trusts? Does he prophecy smooth things to please the king, and to obtain his favor? Will he evade the issue? Will he conceal from the king the true reason why the judgments of God are falling upon the land of Israel? No, as the messenger of God, he must proclaim the truth—just such truth as the occasion demands. He carries a great weight of sorrow on account of the apostasy of Israel. He must hold up before them their defection that they may humble themselves in the sight of the Lord, that His fierce anger may be turned away from them. Elijah faces the enraged king and answers, “I have not troubled Israel, but thou, and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim.” [Verse 18.]Christ Triumphant
Anger at God’s Messengers, June 4
CTr 162.1
Ahab said unto him, Art thou he that troubleth Israel? And he answered, I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord. 1 Kings 18:17, 18.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 40, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 40, 1890, par. 93
Let us look at the case of Elijah. He meets his mortal enemy, the king, the despotic ruler, an apostate from true religion. The king accuses Elijah, “Art thou he that troubleth Israel?” 1 Kings 18:17. Does Elijah excuse himself? Does he resort to flattery? Does he betray sacred trusts because Israel has perverted her faith and disowned her allegiance to her God? Does he prophesy smooth things to please and pacify the king and secure his favor? No, no! Will he evade the issue? Will he conceal from the king the true cause of the judgments of God that are falling upon the whole land of Israel? No, no! Elijah is a man who proclaims the truth, just such truth as the occasion demands. He carries a weight, a great burden and sorrow, for apostate Israel. He must hold up before them their defection that they may humble themselves before God that He may turn away His fierce anger from them. The answer came from Elijah, “I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim.” 1 Kings 18:18.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 46, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 46, 1891, par. 9
When Elijah was accused of Ahab, “Art thou he that troubleth Israel?” the charge is laid decidedly back by Elijah upon Ahab, “I have not troubled Israel, but thou and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim.” [1 Kings 18:17, 18.] Ahab might have said, “Elijah behaved very badly, he talked severely with me, he accused me of forsaking the commandments of the Lord and following Baalim.” I reproved Sr. Gates of not following the commandments of the Lord. The Lord commanded, Thou shalt love the Lord with all thy might, mind, heart and strength and thy neighbor as thyself. The work that had been going on was more after the order of Satan’s working than the way Christ had enjoined upon His disciples.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 12, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 12, 1893, par. 1
I received your letter this morning. You are a poor, deceived young man. This morning Sister Tuxford made us a visit at Sister Brown’s and brought us our mail in which was a letter from you. You seem to feel much depressed, not especially because of your wrongs, but because you have been treated, you say, badly and without tenderness. I cannot take your testimony in regard to this shameful treatment until I have evidence of the fact. It is generally the case when errors are reproved in any person that they feel terribly misused. The reprover, or the one who feels compelled to handle these disagreeable cases, may be full of sorrow and pain at heart to do the work of this disagreeable character, but he dare not neglect the case. <Please consider the case of Ahab, 1 Kings 18:17, 18.>Darkness Before Dawn
The Cause of Evil Falsely Identified
DD 34.1
And then the great deceiver will persuade men that those who serve God are causing these evils. The class that have provoked the displeasure of Heaven will charge all their troubles upon those whose obedience to God’s commandments is a perpetual reproof to transgressors. It will be declared that men are offending God by the violation of the Sunday Sabbath; that this sin has brought calamities which will not cease until Sunday observance shall be strictly enforced; and that those who present the claims of the fourth commandment, thus destroying reverence for Sunday, are troublers of the people, preventing their restoration to divine favor and temporal prosperity. Thus the accusation urged of old against the servant of God will be repeated and upon grounds equally well established: “And it came to pass, when Ahab saw Elijah, that Ahab said unto him, Art thou he that troubleth Israel? And he answered, I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim.” 1 Kings 18:17, 18. As the wrath of the people shall be excited by false charges, they will pursue a course toward God’s ambassadors very similar to that which apostate Israel pursued toward Elijah.The Great Controversy
Chapter 36—The Impending Conflict
GC 590.1
And then the great deceiver will persuade men that those who serve God are causing these evils. The class that have provoked the displeasure of Heaven will charge all their troubles upon those whose obedience to God’s commandments is a perpetual reproof to transgressors. It will be declared that men are offending God by the violation of the Sunday sabbath; that this sin has brought calamities which will not cease until Sunday observance shall be strictly enforced; and that those who present the claims of the fourth commandment, thus destroying reverence for Sunday, are troublers of the people, preventing their restoration to divine favor and temporal prosperity. Thus the accusation urged of old against the servant of God will be repeated and upon grounds equally well established: “And it came to pass, when Ahab saw Elijah, that Ahab said unto him, Art thou he that troubleth Israel? And he answered, I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim.” 1 Kings 18:17, 18. As the wrath of the people shall be excited by false charges, they will pursue a course toward God’s ambassadors very similar to that which apostate Israel pursued toward Elijah.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 36—The Impending Conflict—Its Causes
GC88 590.1
And then the great deceiver will persuade men that those who serve God are causing these evils. The class that have provoked the displeasure of Heaven will charge all their troubles upon those whose obedience to God’s commandments is a perpetual reproof to transgressors. It will be declared that men are offending God by the violation of the Sunday-sabbath, that this sin has brought calamities which will not cease until Sunday observance shall be strictly enforced, and that those who present the claims of the fourth commandment, thus destroying reverence for Sunday, are troublers of the people, preventing their restoration to divine favor and temporal prosperity. Thus the accusation urged of old against the servant of God will be repeated, and upon grounds equally well established. “And it came to pass, when Ahab saw Elijah, that Ahab said unto him, Art thou he that troubleth Israel? And he answered, I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim.” [1 Kings 18:17, 18.] As the wrath of the people shall be excited by false charges, they will pursue a course toward God’s ambassadors very similar to that which apostate Israel pursued toward Elijah.The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4
Chapter 31—The Coming Conflict
4SP 408.1
And then the great deceiver will persuade men that those who serve God are causing these evils. The class that have provoked the displeasure of Heaven will charge all their troubles upon the faithful few whom the Lord has sent to them with messages of warning and reproof. It will be declared that the nation is offending God by the violation of the Sunday-Sabbath, that this sin has brought calamities which will not cease until Sunday observance shall be strictly enforced, and that those who present the claims of the fourth commandment, thus destroying reverence for Sunday, are troublers of the nation, preventing its restoration to divine favor and temporal prosperity. Thus the accusation urged of old against the servant of God will be repeated, and upon grounds equally well established. “And it came to pass when Ahab saw Elijah, that Ahab said unto him, Art thou he that troubleth Israel? And he answered, I have not troubled Israel, but thou and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim.” [1 Kings 18:17, 18.] As the wrath of the people shall be excited by false charges, they will pursue a course toward God’s ambassadors very similar to that which apostate Israel pursued toward Elijah.The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Chapter 115—The Vision at Salamanca
1888 944.1
Let us look at the case of Elijah. He meets his mortal enemy, the king, the despotic ruler, an apostate from true religion. The king accuses Elijah, “Art thou he that troubleth Israel?” 1 Kings 18:17. Does Elijah excuse himself? Does he resort to flattery? Does he betray sacred trusts because Israel has perverted her faith and disowned her allegiance to her God? Does he prophesy smooth things to please and pacify the king and secure his favor? No, no! Will he evade the issue? Will he conceal from the king the true cause of the judgments of God that are falling upon the whole land of Israel? No, no! Elijah is a man who proclaims the truth, just such truth as the occasion demands. He carries a weight, a great burden and sorrow for apostate Israel. He must hold up before them their defection that they may humble themselves before God that He may turn away His fierce anger from them. The answer came from Elijah, “I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim.” 1 Kings 18:18.From Here to Forever
Intemperance Has Beclouded Many
HF 360.3
And then the great deceiver will persuade men to charge all their troubles on those whose obedience to God’s commandments is a perpetual reproof to transgressors. It will be declared that men offend God by the violation of Sunday, that this sin has brought calamities which will not cease until Sunday observance shall be strictly enforced. “Those who destroy reverence for Sunday are preventing restoration of divine favor and prosperity.” Thus the accusation urged of old against the servant of God will be repeated. “When Ahab saw Elijah, ... Ahab said unto him, art thou he that troubleth Israel?” 1 Kings 18:17, 18.The Great Hope (Condensed)
Satan Tries to Keep People in his Power
GrH_c 41.3
And then the great deceiver will persuade men to charge all their troubles on those whose obedience to God’s commandments is a perpetual reproof to transgressors. It will be declared that men offend God by the violation of Sunday, that this sin has brought calamities which will not cease until Sunday observance shall be strictly enforced. “Those who destroy reverence for Sunday are preventing restoration of divine favor and prosperity.” Thus the accusation urged of old against the servant of God will be repeated. “When Ahab saw Elijah,... Ahab said unto him, art thou he that troubleth Israel?” 1 Kings 18:17, 18.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 61, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 61, 1890, par. 43
Let us look at the case of Elijah. The time has come when he must meet his mortal enemy, the cruel Ahab, the despot of Israel, the apostate from the religion of his fathers. In anger the king inquires, “Art thou he that troubleth Israel?” [1 Kings 18:17.] Does Elijah weaken before the king? Does he cringe and cower, and resort to flattery in order to mollify the feelings of the enraged ruler? Israel has perverted her way, and forsaken the path of allegiance to God, and now shall the prophet, to preserve his life, betray sacred, holy trusts? Does he prophesy smooth things to please the king, and to obtain his favor? Will he evade the issue? Will he conceal from the king the true reason why the judgments of God are falling upon the land of Israel? No. As the messenger of God he must proclaim the truth, just such truth as the occasion demands. He carries a great weight of sorrow on account of the apostasy of Israel. He must hold up before them their defection, that they may humble themselves in the sight of the Lord, that His fierce anger may be turned away from them. Elijah faces the enraged king, and answers, “I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim.” [Verse 18.]1 Kings 18:17-21
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 17a, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 17a, 1891, par. 22
All this spirit of picking flaws in a person’s words or deportment, setting one and another on their track to think evil and to communicate evil, is of Satan. Dr. Burke accuses me of having the spirit of the evil one. Dr. Burke, the Lord be judge between thee and me. I present this charge before the Lord. When Ahab met Elijah after he had been doing wicked actions, and when his apostasy affected all Israel, he said to the man whom God had given a message to the king, “Art thou he that troubleth Israel?” Elijah answered, “I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim.” [1 Kings 18:17, 18.]7LtMs, Lt 17a, 1891, par. 26
He has so fully established the idol self in the heart and worshiped at its shrine, there has been no room for Jesus, no room for light, for love, for meekness, and lowliness of heart. Self is magnified into wonderful proportions. His only hope is to die to self, crucify self. If not, he loses that life which measures with the life of God. It is life or death that is set before Dr. Burke. “Choose ye this day, whom ye will serve;” “If the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him.” [Joshua 24:15; 1 Kings 18:21.] I would give my own life if such a gift would save his soul, but it would not. Though Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in the land, as I live, saith the Lord God, they shall deliver neither son nor daughter; they shall but deliver their own souls by their righteousness, which is the imputed righteousness of Christ.1 Kings 18:17-45
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 19, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 19, 1906, par. 4
When at the end of the three years’ drought, Ahab saw Elijah, he said, “Art thou he that troubleth Israel?” [1 Kings 18:17.]21LtMs, Ms 19, 1906, par. 5
Mark the answer, “I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim. Now therefore send, and gather to me all Israel unto mount Carmel, and the prophets of Baal four hundred and fifty, and the prophets of the groves four hundred, which eat at Jezebel’s table.” [Verses 18, 19.]21LtMs, Ms 19, 1906, par. 15
“And Elijah went up to the top of Carmel; and he cast himself down upon the earth, and put his face between his knees.” [Verses 20-42.] Strong and earnest was the prayer of the servant of God for rain. His faith was sorely tried, but he continued in earnest prayer, bowed in a most painful, humiliating position. At last his faith was rewarded by tokens of rain.21LtMs, Ms 19, 1906, par. 16
“And it came to pass ... that the heaven was black with clouds and wind, and there was a great rain.” [Verses 44, 45.]1 Kings 18:19
Prophets and Kings
Chapter 8—National Apostasy
PK 116.2
Alas, how had the glory of Israel departed! Never before had the chosen people of God fallen so low in apostasy. Of “the prophets of Baal” there were “four hundred and fifty,” besides four hundred “prophets of the groves.” 1 Kings 18:19. Nothing short of the miracle-working power of God could preserve the nation from utter destruction. Israel had voluntarily separated herself from Jehovah, yet the Lord in compassion still yearned after those who had been led into sin, and He was about to send to them one of the mightiest of His prophets, through whom many were to be led back to allegiance to the God of their fathers.From Splendor to Shadow
Ahab’s Wicked Reign Begins
SS 60.5
Never before had the chosen people of God fallen so low in apostasy. Of the “prophets of Baal” there were four hundred and fifty, besides four hundred “prophets of the groves.” 1 Kings 18:19. Nothing short of the miracle-working power of God could preserve the nation from utter destruction. Israel had voluntarily separated from Jehovah, yet the Lord in compassion still yearned after those who had been led into sin, and He was about to send them one of the mightiest of His prophets.1 Kings 18:19-40
Prophets and Kings
Chapter 11—Carmel
PK 143.1
Standing before Ahab, Elijah demanded that all Israel be assembled to meet him and the prophets of Baal and Ashtoreth on Mount Carmel. “Send,” he commanded, “and gather to me all Israel unto Mount Carmel, and the prophets of Baal four hundred and fifty, and the prophets of the groves four hundred, which eat at Jezebel’s table.”PK 143.2
The command was issued by one who seemed to stand in the very presence of Jehovah; and Ahab obeyed at once, as if the prophet were monarch, and the king a subject. Swift messengers were sent throughout the kingdom with the summons to meet Elijah and the prophets of Baal and Ashtoreth. In every town and village the people prepared to assemble at the appointed time. As they journeyed toward the place, the hearts of many were filled with strange forebodings. Something unusual was about to happen; else why this summons to gather at Carmel? What new calamity was about to fall upon the people and the land?PK 144.1
Before the drought, Mount Carmel had been a place of beauty, its streams fed from never-failing springs, and its fertile slopes covered with fair flowers and flourishing groves. But now its beauty languished under a withering curse. The altars erected to the worship of Baal and Ashtoreth stood now in leafless groves. On the summit of one of the highest ridges, in sharp contrast with these was the broken-down altar of Jehovah.PK 144.2
Carmel overlooked a wide expanse of country; its heights were visible from many parts of the kingdom of Israel. At the foot of the mount there were vantage points from which could be seen much of what took place above. God had been signally dishonored by the idolatrous worship carried on under cover of its wooded slopes; and Elijah chose this elevation as the most conspicuous place for the display of God’s power and for the vindication of the honor of His name.PK 144.3
Early on the morning of the day appointed, the hosts of apostate Israel, in eager expectancy, gather near the top of the mountain. Jezebel’s prophets march up in imposing array. In regal pomp the king appears and takes his position at the head of the priests, and the idolaters shout his welcome. But there is apprehension in the hearts of the priests as they remember that at the word of the prophet the land of Israel for three years and a half has been destitute of dew and rain. Some fearful crisis is at hand, they feel sure. The gods in whom they have trusted have been unable to prove Elijah a false prophet. To their frantic cries, their prayers, their tears, their humiliation, their revolting ceremonies, their costly and ceaseless sacrifices, the objects of their worship have been strangely indifferent.PK 147.1
Facing King Ahab and the false prophets, and surrounded by the assembled hosts of Israel, Elijah stands, the only one who has appeared to vindicate the honor of Jehovah. He whom the whole kingdom has charged with its weight of woe is now before them, apparently defenseless in the presence of the monarch of Israel, the prophets of Baal, the men of war, and the surrounding thousands. But Elijah is not alone. Above and around him are the protecting hosts of heaven, angels that excel in strength.PK 147.2
Unashamed, unterrified, the prophet stands before the multitude, fully aware of his commission to execute the divine command. His countenance is lighted with an awful solemnity. In anxious expectancy the people wait for him to speak. Looking first upon the broken-down altar of Jehovah, and then upon the multitude, Elijah cries out in clear, trumpetlike tones, “How long halt ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him.”PK 147.3
The people answer him not a word. Not one in that vast assembly dare reveal loyalty to Jehovah. Like a dark cloud, deception and blindness had overspread Israel. Not all at once had this fatal apostasy closed about them, but gradually, as from time to time they had failed to heed the words of warning and reproof that the Lord sent them. Each departure from rightdoing, each refusal to repent, had deepened their guilt and driven them farther from Heaven. And now, in this crisis, they persisted in refusing to take their stand for God.PK 148.1
The Lord abhors indifference and disloyalty in a time of crisis in His work. The whole universe is watching with inexpressible interest the closing scenes of the great controversy between good and evil. The people of God are nearing the borders of the eternal world; what can be of more importance to them than that they be loyal to the God of heaven? All through the ages, God has had moral heroes, and He has them now—those who, like Joseph and Elijah and Daniel, are not ashamed to acknowledge themselves His peculiar people. His special blessing accompanies the labors of men of action, men who will not be swerved from the straight line of duty, but who with divine energy will inquire, “Who is on the Lord’s side?” (Exodus 32:26), men who will not stop merely with the inquiry, but who will demand that those who choose to identify themselves with the people of God shall step forward and reveal unmistakably their allegiance to the King of kings and Lord of lords. Such men make their wills and plans subordinate to the law of God. For love of Him they count not their lives dear unto themselves. Their work is to catch the light from the Word and let it shine forth to the world in clear, steady rays. Fidelity to God is their motto.PK 148.2
While Israel on Carmel doubt and hesitate, the voice of Elijah again breaks the silence: “I, even I only, remain a prophet of the Lord; but Baal’s prophets are four hundred and fifty men. Let them therefore give us two bullocks; and let them choose one bullock for themselves, and cut it in pieces, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under: and I will dress the other bullock, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under: and call ye on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the Lord: and the God that answereth by fire, let him be God.”PK 149.1
The proposal of Elijah is so reasonable that the people cannot well evade it, so they find courage to answer, “It is well spoken.” The prophets of Baal dare not lift their voices in dissent; and, addressing them, Elijah directs, “Choose you one bullock for yourselves, and dress it first; for ye are many; and call on the name of your gods, but put no fire under.”PK 149.2
Outwardly bold and defiant, but with terror in their guilty hearts, the false priests prepare their altar, laying on the wood and the victim; and then they begin their incantations. Their shrill cries echo and re-echo through the forests and the surrounding heights, as they call on the name of their god, saying, “O Baal, hear us.” The priests gather about their altar, and with leaping and writhing and screaming, with tearing of hair and cutting of flesh, they beseech their god to help them.PK 149.3
The morning passes, noon comes, and yet there is no evidence that Baal hears the cries of his deluded followers. There is no voice, no reply to their frantic prayers. The sacrifice remains unconsumed.PK 149.4
As they continue their frenzied devotions, the crafty priests are continually trying to devise some means by which they may kindle a fire upon the altar and lead the people to believe that the fire has come direct from Baal. But Elijah watches every movement; and the priests, hoping against hope for some opportunity to deceive, continue to carry on their senseless ceremonies.PK 149.5
“It came to pass at noon, that Elijah mocked them, and said, Cry aloud: for he is a god; either he is talking, or he is pursuing, or he is in a journey, or peradventure he sleepeth, and must be awaked. And they cried aloud, and cut themselves after their manner with knives and lancets, till the blood gushed out upon them. And it came to pass, when midday was past, and they prophesied until the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that there was neither voice, nor any to answer, nor any that regarded.”PK 150.1
Gladly would Satan have come to the help of those whom he had deceived, and who were devoted to his service. Gladly would he have sent the lightning to kindle their sacrifice. But Jehovah has set Satan’s bounds, restrained his power, and not all the enemy’s devices can convey one spark to Baal’s altar.PK 150.2
At last, their voices hoarse with shouting, their garments stained with blood from self-inflicted wounds, the priests become desperate. With unabated frenzy they now mingle with their pleading terrible cursings of their sun-god, and Elijah continues to watch intently; for he knows that if by any device the priests should succeed in kindling their altar fire, he would instantly be torn in pieces.PK 150.3
Evening draws on. The prophets of Baal are weary, faint, confused. One suggests one thing, and another something else, until finally they cease their efforts. Their shrieks and curses no longer resound over Carmel. In despair they retire from the contest.PK 150.4
All day long the people have witnessed the demonstrations of the baffled priests. They have beheld their wild leaping round the altar, as if they would grasp the burning rays of the sun to serve their purpose. They have looked with horror on the frightful, self-inflicted mutilations of the priests, and have had opportunity to reflect on the follies of idol worship. Many in the throng are weary of the exhibitions of demonism, and they now await with deepest interest the movements of Elijah.PK 151.1
It is the hour of the evening sacrifice, and Elijah bids the people, “Come near unto me.” As they tremblingly draw near, he turns to the broken-down altar where once men worshiped the God of heaven, and repairs it. To him this heap of ruins is more precious than all the magnificent altars of heathendom.PK 151.2
In the reconstruction of this ancient altar, Elijah revealed his respect for the covenant that the Lord made with Israel when they crossed the Jordan into the Promised Land. Choosing “twelve stones, according to the number of the tribes of the sons of Jacob, ... he built an altar in the name of the Lord.”PK 151.3
The disappointed priests of Baal, exhausted by their vain efforts, wait to see what Elijah will do. They hate the prophet for proposing a test that has exposed the weakness and inefficiency of their gods; yet they fear his power. The people, fearful also, and almost breathless with expectancy, watch while Elijah continues his preparations. The calm demeanor of the prophet stands out in sharp contrast with the fanatical, senseless frenzy of the followers of Baal.PK 151.4
The altar completed, the prophet makes a trench about it, and, having put the wood in order and prepared the bullock, he lays the victim on the altar and commands the people to flood the sacrifice and the altar with water. “Fill four barrels,” he directed, “and pour it on the burnt sacrifice, and on the wood. And he said, Do it the second time. And they did it the second time. And he said, Do it the third time. And they did it the third time. And the water ran round about the altar; and he filled the trench also with water.”PK 152.1
Reminding the people of the long-continued apostasy that has awakened the wrath of Jehovah, Elijah calls upon them to humble their hearts and turn to the God of their fathers, that the curse upon the land of Israel may be removed. Then, bowing reverently before the unseen God, he raises his hands toward heaven and offers a simple prayer. Baal’s priests have screamed and foamed and leaped, from early morning until late in the afternoon; but as Elijah prays, no senseless shrieks resound over Carmel’s height. He prays as if he knows Jehovah is there, a witness to the scene, a listener to his appeal. The prophets of Baal have prayed wildly, incoherently. Elijah prays simply and fervently, asking God to show His superiority over Baal, that Israel may be led to turn to Him.PK 152.2
“Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel,” the prophet pleads, “let it be known this day that Thou art God in Israel, and that I am Thy servant, and that I have done all these things at Thy word. Hear me, O Lord, hear me, that this people may know that Thou art the Lord God, and that Thou hast turned their heart back again.”PK 152.3
A silence, oppressive in its solemnity, rests upon all. The priests of Baal tremble with terror. Conscious of their guilt, they look for swift retribution.PK 152.4
No sooner is the prayer of Elijah ended than flames of fire, like brilliant flashes of lightning, descend from heaven upon the upreared altar, consuming the sacrifice, licking up the water in the trench, and consuming even the stones of the altar. The brilliancy of the blaze illumines the mountain and dazzles the eyes of the multitude. In the valleys below, where many are watching in anxious suspense the movements of those above, the descent of fire is clearly seen, and all are amazed at the sight. It resembles the pillar of fire which at the Red Sea separated the children of Israel from the Egyptian host.PK 153.1
The people on the mount prostrate themselves in awe before the unseen God. They dare not continue to look upon the Heaven-sent fire. They fear that they themselves will be consumed; and, convicted of their duty to acknowledge the God of Elijah as the God of their fathers, to whom they owe allegiance, they cry out together as with one voice, “The Lord, He is the God; the Lord, He is the God.” With startling distinctness the cry resounds over the mountain and echoes in the plain below. At last Israel is aroused, undeceived, penitent. At last the people see how greatly they have dishonored God. The character of Baal worship, in contrast with the reasonable service required by the true God, stands fully revealed. The people recognize God’s justice and mercy in withholding the dew and the rain until they have been brought to confess His name. They are ready now to admit that the God of Elijah is above every idol.PK 153.2
The priests of Baal witness with consternation the wonderful revelation of Jehovah’s power. Yet even in their discomfiture and in the presence of divine glory, they refuse to repent of their evil-doing. They would still remain the prophets of Baal. Thus they showed themselves ripe for destruction. That repentant Israel may be protected from the allurements of those who have taught them to worship Baal, Elijah is directed by the Lord to destroy these false teachers. The anger of the people has already been aroused against the leaders in transgression; and when Elijah gives the command, “Take the prophets of Baal; let not one of them escape,” they are ready to obey. They seize the priests, and take them to the brook Kishon, and there, before the close of the day that marked the beginning of decided reform, the ministers of Baal are slain. Not one is permitted to live.From Splendor to Shadow
Chapter 11—God Vindicated on Mount Carmel
SS 75.1
Standing before Ahab, Elijah commanded, “Send, and gather to me all Israel unto Mount Carmel, and the prophets of Baal four hundred and fifty, and the prophets of the groves four hundred, which eat at Jezebel’s table.”SS 75.2
Ahab obeyed at once, as if the prophet were monarch, and the king a subject. Swift messengers were sent with the summons. In every town and village the people prepared to assemble at the appointed time. As they journeyed toward the place, the hearts of many were filled with strange forebodings. Why this summons to gather at Carmel? What new calamity was about to fall?SS 75.3
Mount Carmel had been a place of beauty, its streams fed from never-failing springs and its fertile slopes covered with flowers and flourishing groves. But now its beauty languished under a withering curse. The altars erected to Baal and Ashtoreth stood in leafless groves. On the summit of one of the highest ridges was the broken-down altar of Jehovah.SS 75.4
Carmel’s heights were visible from many parts of the kingdom. At the foot of the mount were vantage points from which could be seen much of what took place above. Elijah chose this elevation as the most conspicuous place for the display of God’s power and the vindication of His name.SS 75.5
Early on the morning of the day appointed, the hosts of Israel gathered near the top of the mountain. Jezebel’s prophets marched in imposing array. In regal pomp the king appeared at the head of the priests, and the idolaters shouted his welcome. But the priests remembered that at the word of the prophet the land of Israel for three years and a half had been destitute of dew and rain. Some fearful crisis was at hand, they felt sure. The gods in whom they had trusted had been unable to prove Elijah a false prophet. To their frantic cries, their prayers, their revolting ceremonies, their costly sacrifices, the objects of their worship had been strangely indifferent.SS 76.1
Facing King Ahab and the false prophets, and surrounded by the assembled host of Israel, Elijah stood, the only one who had appeared to vindicate the honor of Jehovah. He was apparently defenseless in the presence of the monarch, the prophets of Baal, the men of war, and the surrounding thousands. But around him were angels that excel in strength.SS 76.2
Unashamed, unterrified, the prophet was fully aware of his commission to execute the divine command. In anxious expectancy the people waited for him to speak. Looking first on the broken-down altar of Jehovah and then on the multitude, Elijah cried out in trumpet tones, “How long halt ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him.”SS 76.3
The people answered not a word. Not one in that vast assembly dared reveal loyalty to Jehovah. Deception and blindness had overspread Israel, not all at once but gradually. Each departure from rightdoing, each refusal to repent, had deepened their guilt and driven them farther from Heaven. And now, in this crisis, they persisted in refusing to take their stand for God.SS 76.4
The Lord abhors indifference in a time of crisis. The whole universe is watching with inexpressible interest the closing scenes of the great controversy between good and evil. What can be of more importance to the people of God than to be loyal to the God of heaven? All through the ages, God has had moral heroes, and He has them now—those who, like Joseph, Elijah, and Daniel, are not ashamed to acknowledge themselves His peculiar people. His special blessing accompanies men of action, men who will not be swerved from duty, but who will inquire, “Who is on the Lord’s side?” (Exodus 32:26)—men who will demand that those who choose to identify with the people of God shall step forward and reveal their allegiance to the King of kings. Such men make their wills subordinate to the law of God. For love of Him they count not their lives dear unto themselves. Fidelity to God is their motto.SS 77.1
While Israel on Carmel hesitated, the voice of Elijah again broke the silence: “I, even I only, remain a prophet of the Lord; but Baal’s prophets are four hundred and fifty men. Let them therefore give us two bullocks; and let them choose one bullock for themselves, and cut it in pieces, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under: and I will dress the other bullock, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under: and call ye on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the Lord: and the God that answereth by fire, let Him be God.”SS 77.2
The proposal of Elijah was so reasonable that the people answered, “It is well spoken.” The prophets of Baal dared not dissent; and, addressing them, Elijah directed, “Choose you one bullock for yourselves, and dress it first; for ye are many.”SS 77.3
With terror in their guilty hearts, the false priests laid on the wood and the victim. Then they began their incantations. Their shrill cries echoed through the forests and the surrounding heights: “O Baal, hear us!” Leaping, writhing, and screaming, with tearing of hair and cutting of flesh, the priests pleaded with their god to help them. Morning passed, noon came, and yet there was no reply to their frantic prayers. The sacrifice remained unconsumed.SS 77.4
As they continued their frenzied devotions, the crafty priests continually tried to devise some means to kindle a fire on the altar. But Elijah watched every movement; and the priests, hoping against hope for some opportunity to deceive, continued their senseless ceremonies.SS 78.1
“It came to pass at noon, that Elijah mocked them, and said, Cry aloud: for he is a god; either he is talking, or he is pursuing, or he is in a journey, or peradventure he sleepeth, and must be awaked. And they cried aloud, and cut themselves after their manner with knives and lancets, till the blood gushed out upon them. And it came to pass, when midday was past, ... that there was neither voice, nor any to answer, nor any that regarded.”SS 78.2
Gladly would Satan have helped those who were devoted to his service. Gladly would he have sent lightning to kindle their sacrifice. But Jehovah had set Satan’s bounds, and he could not convey one spark to Baal’s altar.SS 78.3
At last, their voices hoarse with shouting, the priests became desperate. With unabated frenzy they mingled with their pleading terrible cursings of their sun-god. Elijah continued to watch intently. He knew that if by any device the priests should succeed in kindling their altar fire, he would instantly be torn to pieces.SS 78.4
Evening drew on. The prophets of Baal were weary, faint, confused. One suggested one thing, and another something else, until finally in despair they retired from the contest.SS 78.5
All day long the people had witnessed the baffled priests’ wild leaping around the altar, as if they would grasp the burning rays of the sun to serve their purpose. The people had looked with horror on their self-inflicted mutilations and had reflected on the follies of idol worship. Many were weary of the exhibitions of demonism and now awaited with deep interest the movements of Elijah.SS 79.1
At the hour of the evening sacrifice, Elijah bade the people, “Come near unto me.” He turned to the broken-down altar where once men worshiped the God of heaven and repaired it. To him this heap of ruins was more precious than all the magnificent altars of heathendom. Choosing “twelve stones, according to the number of the tribes of the sons of Jacob, ... he built an altar in the name of the Lord.”SS 79.2
The disappointed, exhausted priests of Baal waited to see what Elijah would do. They hated the prophet for proposing a test that had exposed their gods; yet they feared his power. Almost breathless with expectancy, the people watched. The calm demeanor of the prophet stood in sharp contrast with the senseless frenzy of the followers of Baal.SS 79.3
The altar completed, the prophet made a trench about it. Having put the wood in order and prepared the bullock, he laid the victim on the altar. “Fill four barrels with water,” he directed, “and pour it on the burnt sacrifice, and on the wood. And he said, Do it the second time. And they did it the second time. And he said, Do it the third time. And they did it the third time. And the water ran round about the altar; and he filled the trench also with water.”SS 79.4
Reminding the people of their long apostasy, Elijah called on the people to humble their hearts and turn to the God of their fathers, that the curse on the land might be removed. Then, bowing reverently before the unseen God, he raised his hands toward heaven and offered a simple prayer. Baal’s priests had screamed and leaped, from early morning until late in the afternoon. But as Elijah prayed, no senseless shrieks resounded over Carmel’s height. He prayed simply and fervently, asking God to show His superiority over Baal that Israel might be led to turn to Him:SS 79.5
“Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that Thou art God in Israel, and that I am Thy servant, and that I have done all these things at Thy word. Hear me, O Lord, hear me, that this people may know that Thou art the Lord God, and that Thou hast turned their heart back again.”SS 80.1
A silence, oppressive in its solemnity, rested upon all. The priests of Baal trembled with terror, conscious of their guilt.SS 80.2
No sooner was the prayer of Elijah ended than flames of fire, like flashes of lightning, descended from heaven on the altar, consuming the sacrifice, licking up the water in the trench, and consuming even the stones of the altar. The brilliance of the blaze illumined the mountain and dazzled the eyes of the multitude. In the valleys below, where many were watching, the descent of fire was clearly seen, and all were amazed at the sight.SS 80.3
The people on the mount prostrated themselves. They dared not continue to look on the Heaven-sent fire. Convicted of their duty to acknowledge the God of Elijah as the God of their fathers, they cried out with one voice, “The Lord, He is the God; the Lord, He is the God.” The cry resounded over the mountain and echoed in the plain below. At last Israel was aroused, undeceived, penitent. At last the people saw how greatly they had dishonored God. The character of Baal worship in contrast with the reasonable service required by the true God, stood fully revealed. The people recognized God’s justice and mercy in withholding the dew and rain until they had been brought to confess His name.SS 80.4
But the priests of Baal, even in their discomfiture and in the presence of divine glory, refused to repent. They would still remain the prophets of Baal. Thus they showed themselves ripe for destruction.SS 80.5
That repentant Israel might be protected from those who taught them to worship Baal, Elijah was directed by the Lord to destroy these false teachers. The anger of the people had already been aroused, and when Elijah gave the command, “Take the prophets of Baal; let not one of them escape,” they were ready to obey. They took them to the brook Kishon, and there, before the close of the day that marked the beginning of decided reform, the ministers of Baal were slain.1 Kings 18:21
Counsels on Health
The Duty of the Christian
CH 562.3
It is the duty of every Christian to follow that course of action which the Lord has designated as right for His servants. He is ever to remember that God and eternity are before him, and he should not disregard his spiritual and physical health, even though tempted by wife, children, or relatives to do so. “If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him.” 1 Kings 18:21.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6
Chapter 18—Hindrances to Reform
6T 141.2
Some teachers and managers who are only half converted are stumbling blocks to others. They concede some things and make half reforms; but when greater knowledge comes, they refuse to advance, preferring to work according to their own ideas. In doing this they pluck and eat of that tree of knowledge which places the human above the divine. “Now therefore fear the Lord, and serve Him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the Lord. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve.” “If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him.” Joshua 24:14, 15; 1 Kings 18:21. We should have been far in advance of our present spiritual condition had we moved forward as the light came to us.The Upward Look
Walk by Faith, Not by Sight, February 28
UL 73.3
It is not necessary for us to know the results of our course of action before we surrender wholly to God. We do not need to see the way, or to know what the future will be. One thing we do know, because God has said it—the man that fears God and works righteousness will be accepted by Him. This is enough for us to know. Day by day walk before the Lord in humility and contrition. Your future destiny depends on your own course of action. “Choose you this day whom ye will serve” (Joshua 24:15). “If the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him” (1 Kings 18:21). Be one thing or the other. “Ye cannot serve God and mammon” (Luke 16:13). Your present happiness and your future well-being depend on your own choice. If you choose to follow Jesus, you must obey the word, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (Matthew 16:24).Ye Shall Receive Power
Elijah, September 12
YRP 264.1
And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. And the people answered him not a word. 1 Kings 18:21.The Publishing Ministry
Chapter 9—Quality Message Literature Needed
PM 96.1
The attention of the people must be arrested. Our message is a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. The destinies of souls are balancing. Multitudes are in the valley of decision. A voice should be heard crying: “If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him.” 1 Kings 18:21.Selections from the Testimonies for the Church For the Study of Those Attending the General Conference in Oakland, Ca., March 27, 1903
Chapter 7—Warnings and Counsels Given to the Battle Creek Church
PH151 39.3
These are no idle tales, but truth. Again I ask. On which side are you standing? “If the Lord be God, follow Him; but if Baal, then follow him.” 1 Kings 18:21.Sermons and Talks, vol. 2
Manuscript 61a, 1906
2SAT 283.7
God now calls upon all who choose to serve Him, to stand on the platform of eternal truth. Let those who have brought about the present state of things, by making the division that exists, stop to consider seriously before going any farther. Change your course of action. “Choose you this day whom ye will serve.” “If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him” (Joshua 24:15; 1 Kings 18:21).The Review and Herald
November 20, 1913
RH November 20, 1913, par. 13
Today, as in the days of Elijah, the line of demarcation between God’s commandment-keeping people and the worshipers of false gods is clearly drawn. “How long halt ye between two opinions?” Elijah cried; “if the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him.” 1 Kings 18:21. And the message for today is, “Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen.” “Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.” Revelation 18:2, 4, 5.Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
Venture Not on Satan’s Ground
2TT 58.1
No man can serve two masters. Light and darkness are no more opposites than are the service of God and the service of Satan. The prophet Elijah presented the matter in the true light when he fearlessly appealed to apostate Israel: “If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him.” 1 Kings 18:21.Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
Hindrances to Reform
2TT 419.2
Some teachers and managers who are only half converted are stumbling blocks to others. They concede some things and make half reforms; but when greater knowledge comes, they refuse to advance, preferring to work according to their own ideas. In doing this they pluck and eat of that tree of knowledge which places the human above the divine. “Now therefore fear the Lord, and serve Him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the Flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the Lord. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve.” “If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him.” Joshua 24:14, 15; 1 Kings 18:21. We should have been far in advance of our present spiritual condition had we moved forward as the light came to us.Testimony Treasures, vol. 3
Matter for Publication
3TT 156.1
The attention of the people must be arrested. Our message is a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. The destinies of souls are balancing. Multitudes are in the valley of decision. A voice should be heard crying: “If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him.” 1 Kings 18:21.Counsels to Writers and Editors
Chapter 1—The Object of Our Publications
CW 13.3
The attention of the people must be arrested. Our message is a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. The destinies of souls are balancing. Multitudes are in the valley of decision. A voice should be heard crying, “If the Lord be God, follow Him; but if Baal, then follow him.” 1 Kings 18:21....From Splendor to Shadow
Elijah Is Needed Today!
SS 99.1
Today, as in the days of Elijah, the line between God’s commandment-keeping people and the worshipers of false gods is clearly drawn. “How long halt ye between two opinions?” Elijah cried; “if the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him.” 1 Kings 18:21. And the message for today is: “Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen.” “Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.” Revelation 18:2, 4, 5.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 22, 1872
2LtMs, Lt 22, 1872, par. 16
With the prophet Elijah we would say, “How long halt ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him.” 1 Kings 18:21. When God bids me speak I shall not hold my peace.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 80, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 80, 1886, par. 29
We want to improve every opportunity given us day by day to overcome the temptations of the enemy. This life is a conflict, and we have a foe who never sleeps, who is watching constantly to destroy our minds and lure us away from our precious Saviour who has given His life for us. Shall we lift the cross given us, or shall we go on in selfish gratification and lose the eternity of bliss? We cannot afford to sin, we cannot afford to disgrace the law of God. Adam and Eve could not afford it. Did not they lose by their transgression? And by obedience we shall regain that which was lost. The question with us should not be, “How shall I make the most money in this world?” The question should be, “Shall I serve God or Baal?” [1 Kings 18:21.] “Choose ye this day whom ye will serve,” but I can say, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” [Joshua 24:15.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 23, 1888
5LtMs, Lt 23, 1888, par. 7
Your expectations in a business line have always been large and flattering. You are a man who talks things out just as they appear to you, and when you are engaged in financial enterprises, you present them in such glowing colors that you injure yourself and those with whom you associate. Your conversation has savored of covetousness. It is not your business to lead men and women to invest means in worldly enterprises. Your eager hopes and pursuits in worldly matters have proved a curse to you spiritually, and you really mar the work of God that is in your hands. You have not only been reproved, but faithfully warned in the Word of God and by direct testimony in regard to your individual errors. “If the Lord be God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him.” [1 Kings 18:21.] “Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” [Matthew 6:24.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 36, 1887
5LtMs, Lt 36, 1887, par. 3
I have a deep interest for your soul, but I dare not withhold the truth from you. You might have been much further advanced than you are now in genuine religious experience. Angels of God are looking upon the most secret actions of your life. I tell you in the fear of God you are not a Christian. To be a Christian is to be Christlike. You are not practicing truth. You are not open, you are not frank. You are not exerting a correct influence. You are not pure in thought or in actions. “How long halt ye between two opinions? If the Lord be God, follow Him; but if Baal, then follow him.” 1 Kings 18:21. Religious principles in you are weak; you need to be a thoroughly converted man. But your low principles are constantly dragging you down to a low standard. You need now to turn square about. Take time to consider. You are to decide for yourself. Will you follow bad examples or good? Ask yourself, Am I working in such a manner that my character building will stand storm and tempest? Is Christ Jesus my foundation? Is my soul hid with Christ in God?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 15, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 15, 1892, par. 33
May the Lord give His people wisdom that He may teach their fingers to war, but not on the enemy’s side. It is time that those who have had light take their position, and that speedily. “Choose you this day whom ye will serve.” [Joshua 24:15.] “If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him.” [1 Kings 18:21.] It is this halfhearted work that brings the frown of God upon those who claim to believe the truth. Let not Satan triumph.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 21a, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 21a, 1893, par. 10
It may seem to you that much is to be gained and little is to be lost by remaining in a large degree insensible to the claims of God upon your heart and deaf to His voice. But in the whispering of the Spirit of God to you is the power of God to quicken and elevate your mind and make you happy if you will but surrender yourself, soul, body, and spirit, to His control. “How long halt ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him.” [1 Kings 18:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 142, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 142, 1893, par. 2
Wednesday was pleasant. Today it is showery. I awoke at one o’clock a.m. and the burden was on my mind for this family. I was repeating the words, “While it is called today, if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.” [Hebrews 3:13, 15.] “If the Lord be God, serve Him, if Baal, serve him.” [1 Kings 18:21.] I could not sleep. We had been kept here against our will, and previous calculations, and O, what a weight of responsibility rested upon me. I felt pressed as a cart beneath sheaves.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 65, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 65, 1895, par. 20
God’s people are not to be treated as the servants of the conference, to be bound and released at its pleasure. God is dishonored, and it is time you called a halt. The men who live out Christ’s lessons in practical life are His co-workers. The man who acts upon worldly principles is serving another master. The two classes do not blend into one another imperceptibly like the colors of a rainbow; Christ’s likeness and Satanic attributes stand out as distinct as midnight in contrast with midday. The Christian differs from the worldling in nature, in taste, in pursuits. The words of the prophet Malachi need to be read, the warnings heeded, and the instructions practiced. From the first word to the last, this book should be our lesson sheet, in the home life, in the church, and before the world. God calls upon you, “Why halt ye between two opinions? If the Lord be God serve him, if Baal, then serve him.” [1 Kings 18:21.]Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)
Young Ministers
GW92 138.1
We have the most solemn message of truth ever borne to the world. This truth is more and more respected by unbelievers, because it cannot be controverted. In view of this fact, our young men become self-confident and self-inflated. They take the truths which have been brought out by other minds, and without study or earnest prayer, meet opponents and engage in contests, indulging in sharp speeches and witticisms, flattering themselves that this is doing the work of a gospel minister. In order to be fitted for God’s work, these men need as thorough a conversion as Paul experienced. Ministers must be living representatives of the truth they preach. They must have greater spiritual life, characterized by greater simplicity. The words must be received from God and given to the people. The attention of the people must be arrested. Our message is a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. The destiny of souls is balancing. Multitudes are in the valley of decision. A voice should be heard crying, “If the Lord be God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him.” [1 Kings 18:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 67, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 67, 1896, par. 26
It is the duty of every Christian to follow that course of action which the Lord has designated as right for His servants. He is ever to remember that God and eternity are before him, and he should not disregard his spiritual and physical health even though tempted by wife, children, or relatives to do so. “If the Lord be God, follow him; if Baal, follow him.” [1 Kings 18:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 167, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 167, 1897, par. 9
All must make the choice for themselves. “If the Lord be God, follow Him: if Baal, then follow him.” [1 Kings 18:21.] The principles that are adopted after careful consideration, will, if right, become a living, molding influence, which will take hold of the very depths of your nature, and will be as a well of water, springing up unto everlasting life, and overflowing the soul.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 31, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 31, 1898, par. 41
Will you turn from a plain “Thus saith the Lord,” after reading the history of Adam’s sin and fall? He fell because he discarded the words of the Lord, and heeded the words of Satan. Will it pay to transgress? By transgression Adam lost Eden. By the transgression of God’s commandments man will lose heaven, and an eternity of bliss. These are no idle tales, but truth. Again I ask, On which side are you standing? “If the Lord be God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him.” [1 Kings 18:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 116, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 116, 1899, par. 12
On which side are you, Philip? Are you on the Lord’s side? You are on one side or the other. It is a life and death question now with the members of the Wessels family. How long will they halt between two opinions? “If the Lord be God, serve him; if Baal, serve him.” [1 Kings 18:21.] I have more to say in regard to these matters, but time fails me. Your safety, Philip, is in clinging to the stronghold for refuge. You have no time to lose. Dally not. We have an Advocate pleading in our behalf. The Holy Ghost is continually engaged in beholding our course of action. We need now keen perception, that by our own practical godliness the truth may be made to appear truth as it is in Jesus.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 45, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 45, 1899, par. 3
There is a work which I call upon our sisters to take hold of, earnestly, perseveringly, and with prayerful contrition of soul. Search the heart. Penetrate into the daily acts of life. Work earnestly to weed out from the character the defects that exist. Christ has died for you and you are to live as unto God. Let your reasoning powers, refined, purified, sanctified, be brought to God. The Lord requires the sanctification of the whole being. The mind as well as the body is to be refined, elevated, ennobled. God has claims upon mind, soul, and body. “Ye are not your own, for ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] All must make the choice for themselves. “If the Lord be God, follow him; if Baal, then follow him.” [1 Kings 18:21.] The principles that are adopted after careful consideration will, if right, become a living, molding influence, which will take hold of the very depths of your nature and will be as a well of water, springing up unto eternal life and overflowing the soul.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 138, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 138, 1901, par. 27
The learner will make mistakes. This is to be looked for. But as he gains insight into his work, he should make improvement. Tell him that accuracy is expected from him, and never fail to show him that the principles of righteousness which are brought into the business life are to be brought into the religious life. “If the Lord be God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him.” [1 Kings 18:21.] The Lord does not want any Baal followers in His army.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 40, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 40, 1901, par. 6
Shall the counsel of Jesus Christ have any effect upon the churches? Bible religion is worth everything. Why halt, ye who know the truth, between two opinions? “If the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him.” [1 Kings 18:21.] Christ’s professed followers have no time to stand on the ground of neutrality. There is more hope of an open enemy than of one who is neutral.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 73, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 73, 1901, par. 13
Let those who have been baptized be true to the vow they have made. “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things that are above, where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God.” [Colossians 3:1.] “You cannot serve God and mammon.” [Matthew 6:24.] “If God be God, follow Him; if Baal, then follow him.” [1 Kings 18:21.] No one is compelled to serve God. The full results of a man’s choice rest upon himself; for he chooses of his own free will. Let him remember that if he chooses the principles of God, respecting and maintaining them, they become a part of his life, moulding him according to the divine similitude. They are “in him a well of water, springing up into everlasting life.” [John 4:14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 55, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 55, 1902, par. 18
Notwithstanding their detrimental influence, men are sometimes kept in positions of trust, where they are able to work out plans and to secure a power of influence that is not used to the glory of God in service for mankind. Such men wish to mold our institutions according to their human ideas. While claiming to be working from unselfish motives, they separate good men, successful physicians, from the very institutions that would be blessed by their help. This thy do because these men will not subscribe to documents that would bind them to follow certain codes of manmade laws—laws stipulating that, in combination with other men, they are to use their influence in doing certain things concerning which the Lord says: “I have not planned these things; I have not endorsed them. Thus men are bound to pledges and asked to endorse documents that will work evil to the heritage I have purchased with My own blood. These documents taste strongly of human policy, which means exaltation of self, restriction of religious liberty, and a denial to men of their right to worship God as the conscience dictates. ‘If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him.’” [1 Kings 18:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 224, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 224, 1902, par. 7
Every heart emptied of self will have the quickening energy of the Holy Spirit. It is now that some are being worked by satanic agencies. Mark the fruit. The whole life is one of ambitious determination to carry out their own plans and purposes, to do a special work to exalt themselves. God puts to them the challenge, “Choose ye this day whom ye will serve. If it be God, serve Him; if Baal, serve him.” [Joshua 24:15; 1 Kings 18:21.] But some have been fixing themselves for a long time by a species of deception and misrepresentation and prevarication, because they have not turned from their idols to serve the living and true God.Lift Him Up
Transforming Power of Obedience to God’s Law, May 30
LHU 164.2
Today, as in the days of Elijah, the line of demarcation between God’s commandment-keeping people and the worshipers of false gods is clearly drawn. “How long halt ye between two opinions?” Elijah cried; “if the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him” (1 Kings 18:21). And the message for today is: “Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen.... Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities” (Revelation 18:2-5).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 65, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 65, 1902, par. 20
In this institution a large number of hands are employed to do commercial work. God does not require the doing of this work. Light has been given you in regard to this matter. “How long halt ye between two opinions? If the Lord be God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him.” [1 Kings 18:21.] Will you now do thorough work in carrying out the instruction God has given regarding the work to be done by our publishing houses? If you continue to follow the plans you have been following, you will lose heaven. Leave to worldlings the business of the world. Do much more whole-souled, diligent work for the Master. The lines of business that have no relation to the cause of God should be cut away from the publishing house. The time and talents of the workers should be devoted to the publication of the truth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 247, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 247, 1903, par. 8
You must make thorough work for repentance. Come before God in humiliation and contrition. There must be harmonious working among God’s people. We must know who is going to follow the light. “If the Lord be God, follow Him; but if Baal, then follow him.” [1 Kings 18:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 39, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 39, 1903, par. 14
It is not necessary for us to know the results of our course of action before we surrender wholly to God. We do not need to see the way or to know what the future will be. One thing we do know, because God has said it—the man that fears God and works righteousness will be accepted by Him. This is enough for us to know. Day by day walk before the Lord in humility and contrition. Your future destiny depends on your own course of action. “Choose ye this day whom ye will serve.” [Joshua 24:15.] “If the Lord be God, then serve Him; but if Baal, then serve him.” [1 Kings 18:21.] Be one thing or the other. “Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” [Matthew 6:24.] Your present happiness and your future well-being depend on your own choice. If you choose to follow Jesus, you must obey the Word, “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Matthew 16:24.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 311, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 311, 1906, par. 6
Edson, God calls for you to be converted. If you remain as you have been for years, you cannot be reckoned as on the Lord’s side. Notwithstanding the decided light the Lord has given through your mother, your sympathies have been largely with those who would make of none effect the light God is giving to His people. The time has come when you must make your decision. “How long halt ye between two opinions? If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him.” [1 Kings 18:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 346, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 346, 1906, par. 2
Brother Cornell, I have a message for you. You seemed to be wavering whether to acknowledge the truth or to give heed to seducing spirits. But God’s hand was stretched out toward you, and He was saying, “How long halt ye between two opinions? If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him. [1 Kings 18:21.] No longer remain in a position of uncertainty; for unless you fully accept the messages of the Lord, you will soon take your position with those who have refused to believe the testimonies that God has given.” I send you this caution, Stand firmly for the truth. Your feet are not on vantage ground. You should now do all in your power to exercise a decided influence for the truth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 37, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 37, 1906, par. 3
No longer should our people go to Battle Creek as they have been doing. Infidelity has been sown there in words, in false statements, in unsanctified influence of mind over mind. God is dishonored, and we are to prepare to accept the situations God may prepare for us. Never before did the matter appear as the Lord presents it today. False theories, repeated again and again, appear as falsely inviting today as did the fruit of the forbidden tree in the garden of Eden. The fruit was very beautiful and apparently desirable for food. Through false doctrines many souls have already been destroyed. Some will never see the light and come to their senses. The Lord God of Israel now declares, “If the Lord be God, serve Him: and if Baal, then follow him.” [1 Kings 18:21.] “Choose ye this day whom ye will serve.” [Joshua 24:15.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 61, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 61, 1906, par. 17
God now calls for all who choose to serve Him to stand firmly on the platform of eternal truth. Let those who have brought about the present state of confusion, by making the division that exists, stop to consider seriously before going any further. “Choose you this day whom ye will serve.” [Joshua 24:15.] “If the Lord be God, serve Him; but if Baal, then follow him.” [1 Kings 18:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 61a, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 61a, 1906, par. 40
God now calls upon all who choose to serve Him to stand on the platform of eternal truth. Let those who have brought about the present state of things, by making the division that exists, stop to consider seriously before going any further. Change your course of action. “Choose you this day whom ye will serve.” [Joshua 24:15.] “If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him.” [1 Kings 18:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 100, 1911
25LtMs, Lt 100, 1911, par. 4
If you have not yet escaped from the snare that Satan laid for your soul, I have nothing on which to build hope in regard to your case. You have been led and controlled by satanic agencies, and you do not break with the enemy. He holds his power over you firmly. At one time you make statements that are not true, and then at another time you say something that means exactly the opposite. “How long halt ye between two opinions? If the Lord be God, follow Him.” [1 Kings 18:21.] It is time that you made the move which you have not yet made. Separate yourself from the evil influences that have controlled you. You have brought yourself into hard places. You have come to the point of breaking, but have drawn back. Will you not now make a decided break with the enemy? This is your only hope.Manuscript Releases, vol. 18 [Nos. 1301-1359]
MR No. 1340—Living The Christ-Life Amid Corrupt Surroundings
18MR 255.2
“How long halt ye between two opinions? If the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him” (1 Kings 18:21). Religious principles in you are weak; you need to be a thoroughly converted man. But your low principles are constantly dragging you down to a low standard. You need now to turn square about. Take time to consider. You are to decide for yourself. Will you follow bad examples or good? Ask yourself, Am I working in such a manner that my character building will stand storm and tempest? Is Christ Jesus my foundation? Is my soul hid with Christ in God?Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]
MR No. 1083—An Appeal to Yield to the Entreaties of the Holy Spirit, Obey God Fully, and Share in Christ’s Spirit of Self-Denial and Sacrifice
14MR 12.2
You may not think so now, because your senses are not spiritually awake. It may seem to you that much is to be gained and little is to be lost by remaining in a large degree insensible to the claims of God upon your heart, and deaf to His voice. But in the whispering of the Spirit of God to you is the power of God to quicken and elevate your mind and make you happy, if you will but surrender yourself, soul, body, and spirit, to His control. “How long halt ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him” [1 Kings 18:21].Prophets and Kings
Chapter 14—“In the Spirit and Power of Elias”
PK 187.2
Today, as in the days of Elijah, the line of demarcation between God’s commandment-keeping people and the worshipers of false gods is clearly drawn. “How long halt ye between two opinions?” Elijah cried; “if the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him.” 1 Kings 18:21. And the message for today is: “Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen.... Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.” Revelation 18:2, 4, 5.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8
Chapter 12—A Departure from Right
8T 68.3
These are no idle tales, but truth. Again I ask: On which side are you standing? “If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him.” 1 Kings 18:21.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7
Matter for Publication
7T 155.3
The attention of the people must be arrested. Our message is a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. The destinies of souls are balancing. Multitudes are in the valley of decision. A voice should be heard crying: “If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him.” 1 Kings 18:21.1 Kings 18:21-40
Conflict and Courage
God’s Heroes, July 22
CC 209.1
How long halt ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. 1 Kings 18:21.CC 209.2
Elijah, amid the general apostasy, did not seek to hide the fact that he served the God of heaven. Baal’s prophets numbered four hundred and fifty, his priests, four hundred, and his worshipers were thousands; yet Elijah did not try to make it appear that he was on the popular side. He grandly stood alone.... With clear, trumpetlike tones Elijah addressed the vast multitude: “How long halt ye between two opinions? ...” ... Where are the Elijahs of today? 39Testimonies for the Church 5:526, 527.CC 209.3
God would have His honor exalted before men as supreme, and His counsels confirmed in the eyes of the people. The witness of the prophet Elijah on Mount Carmel gives the example of one who stood wholly for God and His work in the earth.... “Let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel,” he prays, “and that I am thy servant, and that I have done all these things at thy word. Hear me, O Lord,” he pleads, “hear me.” ...CC 209.4
His zeal for God’s glory and his deep love for the house of Israel present lessons for the instruction of all who stand today as representatives of God’s work in the earth.40The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 2:1034.CC 209.5
Nothing is gained by cowardice or by fearing to let it be known that we are God’s commandment-keeping people. Hiding our light, as if ashamed of our faith, will result only in disaster. God will leave us to our own weakness. May the Lord forbid that we should refuse to let our light shine forth in any place to which He may call us. If we venture to go forth of ourselves, following our own ideas, our own plans, and leave Jesus behind, we need not expect to gain fortitude, courage, or spiritual strength. God has had moral heroes, and He has them now,—those who are not ashamed of being His peculiar people. Their wills and plans are all subordinate to the law of God. The love of Jesus has led them not to count their lives dear unto themselves. Their work has been to catch the light from the word of God and to let it shine forth in clear, steady rays to the world. “Fidelity to God” is their motto.41Testimonies for the Church 5:527, 528.1 Kings 18:36
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 70, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 70, 1900, par. 8
This is the work to be done in every family. Parents, your neglect to do this work will be revealed in the characters of your children and in your own relation to the church. You have pledged yourself to fulfill your obligations to your children, and the fact that you have been baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is an assurance that these powers will help you in every emergency, if you will claim their help. The Lord will hear and answer the prayers of His sincere followers, who wear Christ’s yoke and learn in His school His meekness and lowliness of heart. The obligations in the spiritual agreement entered into at baptism are mutual. As human beings act their part with wholehearted obedience, they have a right to pray, “Let it be known, Lord, that thou art God in Israel.” [1 Kings 18:36.]15LtMs, Ms 70, 1900, par. 11
The language of every consecrated soul will be, “Let it be known that thou art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant.” [1 Kings 18:36.] The heavenly angels are waiting for us to raise our experience to the level of heaven’s design. This can only be done by a most thorough renovation. The hearts of God’s people must be cleansed from all that is corrupt and selfish. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit will unite with those who wear Christ’s yoke. This will give them efficiency and power for their work. When God sees that we are emptied of self, He will send His Spirit to mold and fashion us after the similitude of a palace. God calls upon those who claim to believe the truth to reach a higher standard. Parents and children need to feel the convicting power of God’s Spirit. Then we shall see in our churches an awakening that God will be pleased to recognize.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 19, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 19, 1901, par. 11
We often fail of doing things in the way that the Lord has planned because we insist on carrying out some whim of our own. I pray that the Lord will fill our hearts with an intense desire to know His will and to carry out His will. From unfeigned lips let the prayer go forth, “Let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel.” [1 Kings 18:36.] God’s purpose will be accomplished if men and women will act their part in His great plan. Let us now be God’s helping hand, and as such, relieve our institutions in Scandinavia.1 Kings 18:36-40
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 22, 1911
25LtMs, Lt 22, 1911, par. 15
God would have His honor exalted before men as supreme and His counsels confirmed in the eyes of the people. The witness of the prophet Elijah on Mount Carmel gives the example of one who stood wholly for God and His work in the earth. The prophet calls the Lord by His name, Jehovah God, which He Himself had given to denote His condescension and compassion. Elijah calls Him the God of Abraham and Isaac and Israel. He does this that he may excite in the hearts of His backslidden people humble remembrance of the Lord and assure them of His rich, free grace. Elijah prays, “Be it known this day that Thou art the God of Israel.” The honor of God is to be exalted as supreme, but the prophet asks further that his mission also may be confirmed. “Let it be known this day that Thou art God in Israel,” he prays, “and that I am Thy servant, and that I have done all these things at Thy word. Hear me, O Lord,” he pleads, “hear me.” [1 Kings 18:36, 37.]25LtMs, Lt 22, 1911, par. 17
The people were wonderfully affected by the scene. At the manifestation of God’s power, they fell on their faces on the earth, and extolled the God of Abraham, and gave glory to the God of Israel. With a loud voice they shouted, “The Lord, He is the God; the Lord, He is the God.” [Verse 39.]25LtMs, Lt 22, 1911, par. 18
But while the people acknowledged the God of heaven, the priests, with hardened hearts, refused to be convinced. They would remain still the prophets of Baal. Thus they showed themselves ripe for destruction. And Elijah said to the people, “Take the prophets of Baal; let not one of them escape.” [Verse 40.] The time had come when delusion was unveiled. The people saw the awful deception that had been practiced upon them by the false prophets; and when the word was spoken, they fell upon the prophets, brought them down to the brook Kishon, and took part in their slaughter. Thus was Elijah’s faith crowned with victory, the priests of Baal put to shame, and the worshipers of false gods confounded.1 Kings 18:41-45
God’s Amazing Grace
Elijah’s Example, March 21
AG 88.2
When upon Mount Carmel he [Elijah] offered the prayer for rain (1 Kings 18:41-45), his faith was tested, but he persevered in making known his request unto God. Six times he prayed earnestly, and yet there was no sign that his petition was granted, but with a strong faith he urged his plea to the throne of grace. Had he given up in discouragement at the sixth time, his prayer would not have been answered, but he persevered till the answer came. We have a God whose ear is not closed to our petitions; and if we prove His Word, He will honor our faith. He wants us to have all our interests interwoven with His interests, and then He can safely bless us; for we shall not then take glory to self when the blessing is ours, but shall render all the praise to God. God does not always answer our prayers the first time we call upon Him; for should He do this, we might take it for granted that we had a right to all the blessings and favors He bestowed upon us. Instead of searching our hearts to see if any evil was entertained by us, any sin indulged, we should become careless, and fail to recognize our dependence upon Him, and our need of His help.44SDA Bible Commentary 2:1034, 1035.1 Kings 18:41-46
Conflict and Courage
Waiting Upon God, July 24
CC 211.1
And Elijah said unto Ahab, Get thee up, eat and drink; for there is a sound of abundance of rain. 1 Kings 18:41.CC 211.2
It was not because of any outward evidence that the showers were about to fall, that Elijah could so confidently bid Ahab prepare for rain. The prophet saw no clouds in the heavens; he heard no thunder. He simply spoke the word that the Spirit of the Lord had moved him to speak in response to his own strong faith.... Having done all that was in his power to do, he knew that Heaven would freely bestow the blessings foretold. The same God who had sent the drought had promised an abundance of rain as the reward of rightdoing; and now Elijah waited for the promised outpouring. In an attitude of humility, “his face between his knees,” he interceded with God in behalf of penitent Israel....CC 211.3
Six times the servant returned with the word that there was no sign of rain in the brassy heavens. Undaunted, Elijah sent him forth once more; and this time the servant returned with the word, “Behold, there ariseth a little cloud out of the sea, like a man’s hand.”CC 211.4
This was enough. Elijah did not wait for the heavens to gather blackness. In that small cloud he beheld by faith an abundance of rain; and he acted in harmony with his faith.... As he prayed, his faith reached out and grasped the promises of Heaven, and he persevered in prayer until his petitions were answered. He did not wait for the full evidence that God had heard him, but was willing to venture all on the slightest token of divine favor. And yet what he was enabled to do under God, all may do in their sphere of activity in God’s service....CC 211.5
Faith such as this is needed in the world today—faith that will lay hold on the promises of God’s word and refuse to let go until Heaven hears....CC 211.6
With the persevering faith of Jacob, with the unyielding persistence of Elijah, we may present our petitions to the Father, claiming all that He has promised. The honor of His throne is staked for the fulfillment of His word.45Prophets and Kings, 155-158.Prophets and Kings
Chapter 12—From Jezreel to Horeb
PK 155.1
With the slaying of the prophets of Baal, the way was opened for carrying forward a mighty spiritual reformation among the ten tribes of the northern kingdom. Elijah had set before the people their apostasy; he had called upon them to humble their hearts and turn to the Lord. The judgments of Heaven had been executed; the people had confessed their sins, and had acknowledged the God of their fathers as the living God; and now the curse of Heaven was to be withdrawn, and the temporal blessings of life renewed. The land was to be refreshed with rain. “Get thee up, eat and drink,” Elijah said to Ahab; “for there is a sound of abundance of rain.” Then the prophet went to the top of the mount to pray.PK 155.2
It was not because of any outward evidence that the showers were about to fall, that Elijah could so confidently bid Ahab prepare for rain. The prophet saw no clouds in the heavens; he heard no thunder. He simply spoke the word that the Spirit of the Lord had moved him to speak in response to his own strong faith. Throughout the day he had unflinchingly performed the will of God and had revealed his implicit confidence in the prophecies of God’s word; and now, having done all that was in his power to do, he knew that Heaven would freely bestow the blessings foretold. The same God who had sent the drought had promised an abundance of rain as the reward of rightdoing; and now Elijah waited for the promised outpouring. In an attitude of humility, “his face between his knees,” he interceded with God in behalf of penitent Israel.PK 156.1
Again and again Elijah sent his servant to a point overlooking the Mediterranean, to learn whether there were any visible token that God had heard his prayer. Each time the servant returned with the word, “There is nothing.” The prophet did not become impatient or lose faith, but continued his earnest pleading. Six times the servant returned with the word that there was no sign of rain in the brassy heavens. Undaunted, Elijah sent him forth once more; and this time the servant returned with the word, “Behold, there ariseth a little cloud out of the sea like a man’s hand.”PK 156.2
This was enough. Elijah did not wait for the heavens to gather blackness. In that small cloud he beheld by faith an abundance of rain; and he acted in harmony with his faith, sending his servant quickly to Ahab with the message, “Prepare thy chariot, and get thee down, that the rain stop thee not.”PK 156.3
It was because Elijah was a man of large faith that God could use him in this grave crisis in the history of Israel. As he prayed, his faith reached out and grasped the promises of Heaven, and he persevered in prayer until his petitions were answered. He did not wait for the full evidence that God had heard him, but was willing to venture all on the slightest token of divine favor. And yet what he was enabled to do under God, all may do in their sphere of activity in God’s service; for of the prophet from the mountains of Gilead it is written: “Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.” James 5:17.PK 157.1
Faith such as this is needed in the world today—faith that will lay hold on the promises of God’s word and refuse to let go until Heaven hears. Faith such as this connects us closely with Heaven, and brings us strength for coping with the powers of darkness. Through faith God’s children have “subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.” Hebrews 11:33, 34. And through faith we today are to reach the heights of God’s purpose for us. “If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.” Mark 9:23.PK 157.2
Faith is an essential element of prevailing prayer. “He that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” “If we ask anything according to His will, He heareth us: and if we know that He hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of Him.” Hebrews 11:6; 1 John 5:14, 15. With the persevering faith of Jacob, with the unyielding persistence of Elijah, we may present our petitions to the Father, claiming all that He has promised. The honor of His throne is staked for the fulfillment of His word.PK 158.1
The shades of night were gathering about Mount Carmel as Ahab prepared for the descent. “It came to pass in the meanwhile, that the heaven was black with clouds and wind, and there was a great rain. And Ahab rode, and went to Jezreel.” As he journeyed toward the royal city through the darkness and the blinding rain, Ahab was unable to see his way before him. Elijah, who, as the prophet of God, had that day humiliated Ahab before his subjects and slain his idolatrous priests, still acknowledged him as Israel’s king; and now, as an act of homage, and strengthened by the power of God, he ran before the royal chariot, guiding the king to the entrance of the city.PK 158.2
In this gracious act of God’s messenger shown to a wicked king is a lesson for all who claim to be servants of God, but who are exalted in their own estimation. There are those who feel above performing duties that to them appear menial. They hesitate to perform even needful service, fearing that they will be found doing the work of a servant. These have much to learn from the example of Elijah. By his word the treasures of heaven had been for three years withheld from the earth; he had been signally honored of God as, in answer to his prayer on Carmel, fire had flashed from heaven and consumed the sacrifice; his hand had executed the judgment of God in slaying the idolatrous prophets; his petition for rain had been granted. And yet, after the signal triumphs with which God had been pleased to honor his public ministry, he was willing to perform the service of a menial.PK 159.1
At the gate of Jezreel, Elijah and Ahab separated. The prophet, choosing to remain outside the walls, wrapped himself in his mantle, and lay down upon the bare earth to sleep. The king, passing within, soon reached the shelter of his palace and there related to his wife the wonderful events of the day and the marvelous revelation of divine power that had proved to Israel that Jehovah is the true God and Elijah His chosen messenger. As Ahab told the queen of the slaying of the idolatrous prophets, Jezebel, hardened and impenitent, became infuriated. She refused to recognize in the events on Carmel the overruling providence of God, and, still defiant, she boldly declared that Elijah should die.PK 159.2
That night a messenger aroused the weary prophet and delivered to him the word of Jezebel: “So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life as the life of one of them by tomorrow about this time.”PK 159.3
It would seem that after showing courage so undaunted, after triumphing so completely over king and priests and people, Elijah could never afterward have given way to despondency nor been awed into timidity. But he who had been blessed with so many evidences of God’s loving care was not above the frailties of mankind, and in this dark hour his faith and courage forsook him. Bewildered, he started from his slumber. The rain was pouring from the heavens, and darkness was on every side. Forgetting that three years before, God had directed his course to a place of refuge from the hatred of Jezebel and the search of Ahab, the prophet now fled for his life. Reaching Beersheba, he “left his servant there. But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness.”PK 160.1
Elijah should not have fled from his post of duty. He should have met the threat of Jezebel with an appeal for protection to the One who had commissioned him to vindicate the honor of Jehovah. He should have told the messenger that the God in whom he trusted would protect him against the hatred of the queen. Only a few hours had passed since he had witnessed a wonderful manifestation of divine power, and this should have given him assurance that he would not now be forsaken. Had he remained where he was, had he made God his refuge and strength, standing steadfast for the truth, he would have been shielded from harm. The Lord would have given him another signal victory by sending His judgments on Jezebel; and the impression made on the king and the people would have wrought a great reformation.PK 160.2
Elijah had expected much from the miracle wrought on Carmel. He had hoped that after this display of God’s power, Jezebel would no longer have influence over the mind of Ahab, and that there would be a speedy reform throughout Israel. All day on Carmel’s height he had toiled without food. Yet when he guided the chariot of Ahab to the gate of Jezreel, his courage was strong, despite the physical strain under which he had labored.PK 161.1
But a reaction such as frequently follows high faith and glorious success was pressing upon Elijah. He feared that the reformation begun on Carmel might not be lasting; and depression seized him. He had been exalted to Pisgah’s top; now he was in the valley. While under the inspiration of the Almighty, he had stood the severest trial of faith; but in this time of discouragement, with Jezebel’s threat sounding in his ears, and Satan still apparently prevailing through the plotting of this wicked woman, he lost his hold on God. He had been exalted above measure, and the reaction was tremendous. Forgetting God, Elijah fled on and on, until he found himself in a dreary waste, alone. Utterly wearied, he sat down to rest under a juniper tree. And sitting there, he requested for himself that he might die. “It is enough; now, O Lord,” he said, “take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers.” A fugitive, far from the dwelling places of men, his spirits crushed by bitter disappointment, he desired never again to look upon the face of man. At last, utterly exhausted, he fell asleep.PK 162.1
Into the experience of all there come times of keen disappointment and utter discouragement—days when sorrow is the portion, and it is hard to believe that God is still the kind benefactor of His earthborn children; days when troubles harass the soul, till death seems preferable to life. It is then that many lose their hold on God and are brought into the slavery of doubt, the bondage of unbelief. Could we at such times discern with spiritual insight the meaning of God’s providences we should see angels seeking to save us from ourselves, striving to plant our feet upon a foundation more firm than the everlasting hills, and new faith, new life, would spring into being.PK 162.2
The faithful Job, in the day of his affliction and darkness, declared:PK 162.3
“Let the day perish wherein I was born.”“O that my grief were throughly weighed,
And my calamity laid in the balances together!”
PK 163.1
“O that I might have my request;And that God would grant me the thing that I long for!
Even that it would please God to destroy me;
That He would let loose His hand, and cut me off!
Then should I yet have comfort.”
PK 163.2
“I will not refrain my mouth;I will speak in the anguish of my spirit;
I will complain in the bitterness of my soul.”
PK 163.3
“My soul chooseth ... death rather than my life.I loathe it;
I would not live alway:
Let me alone;
For my days are vanity.” Job 3:3; 6:2, 8-10; 7:11, 15, 16.
PK 163.4
But though weary of life, Job was not allowed to die. To him were pointed out the possibilities of the future, and there was given him the message of hope:PK 163.5
“Thou shalt be steadfast, and shalt not fear:Because thou shalt forget thy misery,
And remember it as waters that pass away:
And thine age shall be clearer than the noonday;
Thou shalt shine forth, thou shalt be as the morning.
And thou shalt be secure,
Because there is hope....
Thou shalt lie down,
And none shall make thee afraid;
Yea, many shall make suit unto thee.
But the eyes of the wicked shall fail,
And they shall not escape,
And their hope shall be as the giving up of the ghost.” Job 11:15-20.
PK 163.6
From the depths of discouragement and despondency Job rose to the heights of implicit trust in the mercy and the saving power of God. Triumphantly he declared:PK 164.1
“Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him: ...He also shall be my salvation.”
“I know that my Redeemer liveth,
And that He shall stand at the latter day upon the earth:
And though after my skin worms destroy this body,
Yet in my flesh shall I see God:
Whom I shall see for myself,
And mine eyes shall behold, and not another.” Job 13:15, 16; 19:25-27.
PK 164.2
“The Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind” (Job 38:1), and revealed to His servant the might of His power. When Job caught a glimpse of his Creator, he abhorred himself and repented in dust and ashes. Then the Lord was able to bless him abundantly and to make his last years the best of his life.PK 164.3
Hope and courage are essential to perfect service for God. These are the fruit of faith. Despondency is sinful and unreasonable. God is able and willing “more abundantly” (Hebrews 6:17) to bestow upon His servants the strength they need for test and trial. The plans of the enemies of His work may seem to be well laid and firmly established, but God can overthrow the strongest of these. And this He does in His own time and way, when He sees that the faith of His servants has been sufficiently tested.PK 164.4
For the disheartened there is a sure remedy—faith, prayer, work. Faith and activity will impart assurance and satisfaction that will increase day by day. Are you tempted to give way to feelings of anxious foreboding or utter despondency? In the darkest days, when appearances seem most forbidding, fear not. Have faith in God. He knows your need. He has all power. His infinite love and compassion never weary. Fear not that He will fail of fulfilling His promise. He is eternal truth. Never will He change the covenant He has made with those who love Him. And He will bestow upon His faithful servants the measure of efficiency that their need demands. The apostle Paul has testified: “He said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness.... Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9, 10.PK 166.1
Did God forsake Elijah in his hour of trial? Oh, no! He loved His servant no less when Elijah felt himself forsaken of God and man than when, in answer to his prayer, fire flashed from heaven and illuminated the mountaintop. And now, as Elijah slept, a soft touch and a pleasant voice awoke him. He started up in terror, as if to flee, fearing that the enemy had discovered him. But the pitying face bending over him was not the face of an enemy, but of a friend. God had sent an angel from heaven with food for His servant. “Arise and eat,” the angel said. “And he looked, and, behold, there was a cake baken on the coals, and a cruse of water at his head.”PK 166.2
After Elijah had partaken of the refreshment prepared for him, he slept again. A second time the angel came. Touching the exhausted man, he said with pitying tenderness, “Arise and eat; because the journey is too great for thee.” “And he arose, and did eat and drink;” and in the strength of that food he was able to journey “forty days and forty nights unto Horeb the mount of God,” where he found refuge in a cave.From Splendor to Shadow
Chapter 12—The Prophet Loses Faith, and Panics
SS 82.1
With the slaying of the prophets of Baal, the way was opened for carrying forward a mighty spiritual reformation. The judgments of Heaven had been executed; the people had confessed their sins and acknowledged the God of their fathers. Now the curse was to be withdrawn, and the land was to be refreshed with rain. “Get thee up, eat and drink,” Elijah said to Ahab, “for there is a sound of abundance of rain.” Then the prophet went to the top of the mount to pray.SS 82.2
He saw no clouds in the heavens; he heard no thunder. Throughout the day he had revealed his implicit confidence in God’s word; and now he knew that Heaven would bestow the blessings foretold. The same God who had sent the drought had promised rain as the reward of rightdoing. In an attitude of humility, Elijah interceded with God in behalf of penitent Israel.SS 82.3
Again and again he sent his servant to a point overlooking the Mediterranean, to learn whether there was any visible token that God had heard his prayer. Each time the servant returned with the word, “There is nothing.” The prophet did not lose faith, but continued pleading. Six times the servant returned with the word that there was no sign of rain in the brassy heavens. Undaunted, Elijah sent him forth once more. This time the servant returned with the word, “Behold, there ariseth a little cloud out of the sea, like a man’s hand.”SS 82.4
This was enough! In that small cloud Elijah beheld by faith an abundance of rain; and he acted in harmony with his faith, sending his servant quickly to Ahab with the message, “Prepare thy chariot, get thee down, that the rain stop thee not.”SS 83.1
Because Elijah was a man of large faith, God could use him. His faith grasped the promises of Heaven, and he persevered in prayer. He did not wait for the full evidence that God had heard him but was willing to venture all on the slightest token of divine favor. And what he was enabled to do under God, all may do in their sphere in God’s service. “Elijah was a man of like nature with ourselves and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth.” James 5:17, RSV.SS 83.2
Faith such as this is needed today—faith that will lay hold of the promises of God’s Word, faith that brings strength for coping with the powers of darkness. Through faith God’s children have “conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, received promises, ... won strength out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight.” Hebrews 11:33, 34, RSV.SS 83.3
Faith is an essential element of prevailing prayer. “He that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” Hebrews 11:6. With the persistence of Elijah, we may present our petitions to the Father. The honor of His throne is staked for the fulfillment of His word.SS 83.4
The shades of night were gathering about Mount Carmel as Ahab prepared for the descent. “It came to pass in the meanwhile, that the heaven was black with clouds and wind, and there was a great rain. And Ahab rode, and went to Jezreel.” As he journeyed toward the royal city through the darkness and blinding rain, he was unable to see before him. Elijah had that day humiliated him before his subjects and slain his idolatrous priests, but he still acknowledged him as Israel’s king. Now, as an act of homage, he ran before the royal chariot, guiding the king to the city.SS 83.5
In this gracious act shown to a wicked king is a lesson for all who claim to be servants of God. There are those who hesitate to perform menial duties, fearing that they will be doing the work of a servant. Elijah had been signally honored of God as fire had flashed from heaven and consumed the sacrifice; his petition for rain had been granted. And yet, after God had been pleased to honor his public ministry, he was willing to perform the service of a menial.SS 84.1
At the gate of Jezreel, Elijah and Ahab separated. The prophet, choosing to remain outside the walls, wrapped himself in his mantle and lay down on the bare earth to sleep. The king soon reached the shelter of his palace and related to his wife the events of the day. As Ahab told of the slaying of the idolatrous prophets, Jezebel, hardened and impenitent, became infuriated. She refused to recognize the overruling providence of God, and still defiant, boldly declared that Elijah should die.SS 84.2
That night a messenger aroused the weary prophet and delivered the word of Jezebel: “So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life as the life of one of them by tomorrow about this time.”SS 84.3
It would seem that after showing courage so undaunted, and after triumphing so completely over king and priests and people, Elijah could never afterward have given way to despondency nor been awed into timidity. But in this dark hour his faith and courage forsook him. Bewildered, he started from his slumber. The rain was pouring from the heavens, and darkness was on every side. Forgetting that three years before, God had directed his course to a place of refuge, the prophet now fled for his life.SS 84.4
Elijah should not have fled. He should have met the threat of Jezebel with an appeal for protection to the One who had commissioned him. He should have told the messenger that the God in whom he trusted would protect him against the hatred of the queen. Had he made God his refuge and strength, he would have been shielded from harm. The Lord would have sent His judgments on Jezebel, and the impression made on king and people would have wrought a great reformation.SS 85.1
Elijah had hoped that after the miracle on Carmel Jezebel would no longer have influence over Ahab and that there would be a speedy reform throughout all Israel. All day on Carmel he had toiled without food. Yet when he guided the chariot of Ahab to Jezreel, his courage was strong despite the physical strain. But a reaction frequently follows high faith and glorious success. Elijah feared that the reformation begun might not be lasting, and depression seized him. In this time of discouragement, with Jezebel’s threat sounding in his ears and Satan still apparently prevailing, he lost his hold on God.SS 85.2
Forgetting God, Elijah fled on and on, until he found himself in a dreary waste, alone. Utterly wearied, he sat down to rest under a juniper tree, and requested that he might die: “It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers.” His spirit crushed by bitter disappointment, he desired never again to look on the face of man. At last, exhausted, he fell asleep.SS 85.3
To all there come times of keen disappointment and discouragement—days when it is hard to believe that God is still kind, days when troubles harass till death seems preferable to life. Then many lose their hold on God and are brought into the slavery of doubt and unbelief. Could we at such times discern the meaning of God’s providences, we should see angels seeking to save us from ourselves, striving to plant our feet on a firm foundation, and new faith, new life, would spring into being.SS 86.1
The faithful Job in his affliction and darkness declared:SS 86.2
But though weary of life, Job was not allowed to die. To him was given the message of hope:You will forget your misery;
SS 86.4
From the depths of despondency Job rose to the heights of trust in God. Triumphantly he declared:SS 86.5
When Job caught a glimpse of his Creator, he abhorred himself and repented in dust and ashes. Then the Lord was able to bless him and make his last years the best of his life.SS 87.1
Did God forsake Elijah in his trial? No! He loved His servant no less when he felt forsaken of God and man. And now a soft touch and pleasant voice awoke him. The pitying face bending over him was not the face of an enemy, but of a friend. God had sent an angel with food. “Arise and eat,” the angel said. “And he looked, and, behold, there was a cake baken on the coals, and a cruse of water at his head.”SS 87.2
After Elijah had partaken of the refreshment, he slept again. A second time the angel touched the exhausted man, and said with pitying tenderness, “Arise and eat; because the journey is too great for thee.” In the strength of that food he was able to journey “forty days and forty nights unto Horeb the mount of God,” where he found refuge in a cave.From Splendor to Shadow
Elijah’s Utter Despondency
Let the day perish wherein I was born.
O that I might have my request, ...
I would choose ... death ... . I loathe my life.
Job 3:3; 6:8; 7:15, 16, RSV
SS 86.3
You will remember it as waters that have passedaway.
And your life will be brighter than the noonday;
Its darkness will be like the morning.
Job 11:16, 17, RSV
For I know that my Redeemer lives,
And He will stand at last on the earth;
And after my skin is destroyed, this I know,
That in my flesh I shall see God.
Job 19:25, 26, NKJV
SS 86.6
Despondency is sinful and unreasonable. God is willing “more abundantly” (Hebrews 6:17) to bestow on His servants the strength they need. The plans of the enemies of His work may seem firmly established, but God can overthrow the strongest of these. For the disheartened there is a sure remedy—faith, prayer, work. Are you tempted to give way to anxious foreboding or despondency? In the darkest days, when appearances seem most forbidding, fear not. God knows your need. His infinite love and compassion never weary. Never will He change the covenant He has made with those who love Him. And He will bestow on His faithful servants the efficiency that their need demands. Paul has testified: “He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.’ ... For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weakness ...; for when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9, 10, RSV.EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
1 Kings 18:1-18
From Splendor to Shadow
Chapter 10—The Voice of Stern Rebuke
SS 67.1
Hidden in the mountains by the brook Cherith, for many months Elijah was miraculously provided with food. When, because of the continued drought, the brook became dry, God told His servant: “Arise, get thee to Zarephath [known in New Testament times as Sarepta] ... : behold, I have commanded a widow woman there to sustain thee.”SS 67.2
This woman was not an Israelite. She had never had the privileges that the chosen people of God had enjoyed, but she was a believer in the true God and had walked in all the light shining on her pathway. And now, when there was no safety for Elijah in Israel, God sent him to this woman to find asylum in her home.SS 67.3
“So he arose and went to Zarephath, and when he came to the gate of the city, behold, the widow woman was there gathering of sticks: and he called to her, and said, Fetch me, I pray thee, a little water in a vessel, that I may drink. And ... bring me, I pray thee, a morsel of bread.”SS 67.4
In this poverty-stricken home the famine pressed sore, and the widow feared that she must give up the struggle to sustain life. But in her dire extremity she bore witness to her faith. In response to Elijah’s request she said, “As the Lord thy God liveth, I have not a cake, but an handful of meal in a barrel, and a little oil in a cruse: and, behold, I am gathering two sticks, that I may go in and dress it for me and my son, that we may eat it, and die. And Elijah said unto her, Fear not; go and do as thou hast said: but make me thereof a little cake first, and bring it unto me, and after make for thee and for thy son. For thus saith the Lord God of Israel, The barrel of meal shall not waste, neither shall the cruse of oil fail, until the day that the Lord sendeth rain upon the earth.”SS 68.1
No greater test of faith could have been required. Regardless of the suffering that might result to herself and child and trusting in the God of Israel to supply her need, the widow met this supreme test of hospitality by doing “according to the saying of Elijah.”SS 68.2
Wonderfully were her faith and generosity rewarded. “She, and he, and her house did eat many days. And the barrel of meal wasted not, neither did the cruse of oil fail, according to the word of the Lord, which He spake by Elijah.”SS 68.3
“After these things ... the son of the woman, the mistress of the house, fell sick; and his sickness was so sore, that there was no breath left in him. And she said unto Elijah, ... Art thou come to me to call my sin to remembrance, and to slay my son?”SS 68.4
“And he said unto her, Give me thy son. And he ... carried him up into a loft, where he abode, and laid him upon his own bed ... . And he stretched himself upon the child three times, and cried unto the Lord ... . And the Lord heard the voice of Elijah; and the soul of the child came into him again, and he revived.”SS 68.5
“And Elijah took the child, and brought him down out of the chamber into the house, and delivered him unto his mother: and Elijah said, See, thy son liveth. And the woman said to Elijah, Now by this I know that thou art a man of God, and that the word of the Lord in thy mouth is truth.”SS 69.3
Through the long years of famine, Elijah prayed earnestly and waited patiently while the hand of the Lord rested heavily on the stricken land. As he saw suffering and want on every side, his heart was wrung with sorrow, and he longed to bring about a reformation quickly. But God was working out His plan, and His servant was to pray on and await the time for action.SS 69.4
The apostasy in Ahab’s day was the result of many years of evildoing. Step by step Israel had been departing from the right way, and at last the great majority had yielded themselves to the powers of darkness.SS 69.5
About a century had passed since, under King David, Israel had united in hymns of praise to the Most High in recognition of their entire dependence on Him for daily mercies. Then they sang:O God of our salvation, ...
Thou makest the outgoings of the morning and
evening to rejoice.
Thou visitest the earth, and waterest it:
Thou greatly enrichest it with the river of God,
which is full of water:
Thou preparest them corn, when Thou hast so
provided for it.
Thou crownest the year with Thy goodness;
And Thy paths drop fatness.
Psalm 65:5, 8, 9, 11
He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle,
And herb for the service of man:
That He may bring forth food out of the earth;
And wine that maketh glad the heart of man.
O Lord, how manifold are Thy works!
In wisdom hast Thou made them all:
The earth is full of Thy riches.
Psalm 104:14, 15, 24
SS 70.1
The land to which the Lord had brought Israel was flowing with milk and honey, a country where they need never suffer for lack of rain. “The land, whither thou goest in to possess it,” He had told them, “is not as the land of Egypt, from whence ye came out, where thou sowedst thy seed, and wateredst it with thy foot, as a garden of herbs: but the land, whither ye go to possess it, is a land of hills and valleys, and drinketh water of the rain of heaven: a land which the Lord thy God careth for.”SS 70.2
The promise of abundance of rain had been given on condition of obedience: “If ye shall hearken diligently unto My commandments which I command you this day, to love the Lord your God, and to serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul, that I will give you the rain of your land in his due season, the first rain and the latter rain.”SS 71.1
“Take heed to yourselves, that your heart be not deceived, and ye turn aside, and serve other gods, and worship them; and then ... He [the Lord] shut up the heaven, that there be no rain, and that the land yield not her fruit; and lest ye perish quickly from off the good land which the Lord giveth you.” Deuteronomy 11:10-14, 16, 17.SS 71.2
“If thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe to do all His commandments and His statutes,” “thy heaven that is over thy head shall be brass, and the earth that is under thee shall be iron. The Lord shall make the rain of thy land powder and dust.” Deuteronomy 28:15, 23, 24.SS 71.3
Plain were these commands, yet as the centuries passed, apostasy threatened to sweep aside every barrier of divine grace. Now the prediction of Elijah was meeting terrible fulfillment. For three years the messenger of woe was sought for. Many rulers had given their oath of honor that the strange prophet could not be found in their dominions. Jezebel and the prophets of Baal hated Elijah and spared no effort to bring him within reach of their power. And still there was no rain.SS 71.4
At last “the word of the Lord came to Elijah ..., saying, Go, show thyself unto Ahab; and I will send rain upon the earth.” In obedience to the command, Elijah set forth on his journey.SS 71.5
About this time Ahab proposed to Obadiah, the governor of his household, that they search for springs and brooks in the hope of finding pasture for their starving flocks. The king, deeply concerned over the outlook for his household, decided to unite personally with his servant in a search for some favored spots where pasture might be had. “Ahab went one way by himself, and Obadiah went another way by himself.” “As Obadiah was in the way, behold, Elijah met him: and he knew him, and fell on his face, and said, Art thou that my lord Elijah?”SS 72.1
During the apostasy of Israel, Obadiah had remained faithful. The king had been unable to turn him from his allegiance to the living God. Now he was honored with a commission from Elijah: “Go, tell thy lord, Behold, Elijah is here.”SS 72.2
Terrified, Obadiah exclaimed, “What have I sinned, that thou wouldest deliver thy servant into the hand of Ahab, to slay me?” This was to court certain death! “As the Lord thy God liveth,” he explained to the prophet, “there is no nation or kingdom, whither my lord hath not sent to seek thee: and when they said, He is not there; he took an oath of the kingdom and nation, that they found thee not. And now thou sayest, Go, tell thy lord, Behold, Elijah is here. And it shall come to pass, as soon as I am gone from thee, that the Spirit of the Lord shall carry thee whither I know not; and so when I come and tell Ahab, and he cannot find thee, he shall slay me.”SS 72.3
With a solemn oath Elijah promised Obadiah that the errand should not be in vain. “As the Lord of hosts liveth, before whom I stand, I will surely show myself unto him today.” Thus assured, “Obadiah went to meet Ahab, and told him.”SS 72.4
In astonishment mingled with terror the king listened to the message from the man whom he feared and hated, and for whom he had sought untiringly. Could it be possible that the prophet was about to utter another woe against Israel? The king’s heart was seized with dread. He remembered the withered arm of Jeroboam. Ahab could not avoid obeying the summons, neither dared he lift up his hand against the messenger of God. Accompanied by a bodyguard of soldiers, the trembling monarch went to meet the prophet.SS 72.5
The king and the prophet stood face to face. In the presence of Elijah, Ahab seemed unmanned, powerless. In his first faltering words, “Art thou he that troubleth Israel?” he unconsciously revealed the inmost feelings of his heart and sought to cast on the prophet the blame for the heavy judgments resting on the land.SS 73.1
It is natural for the wrongdoer to hold the messengers of God responsible for the calamities that come as the result of departure from the way of righteousness. When the mirror of truth is held up before those in Satan’s power, they become indignant at receiving reproof. Blinded by sin, they feel that God’s servants have turned against them and are worthy of severest censure.SS 73.2
Standing in conscious innocence, Elijah made no attempt to excuse himself or to flatter the king. Nor did he seek to evade the king’s wrath by the good news that the drought was almost over. Indignant, and jealous for the honor of God, he fearlessly declared to the king that it was his sins, and the sins of his fathers, that had brought this terrible calamity. “I have not troubled Israel,” Elijah boldly asserted, “but thou, and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim.”SS 73.3
Today there is need of the voice of stern rebuke, for grievous sins have separated the people from God. Infidelity is fashionable. “We will not have this Man to reign over us” (Luke 19:14) is the language of thousands. The smooth sermons often preached make no lasting impression; the trumpet does not give a certain sound. Men are not cut to the heart by the plain, sharp truths of God’s Word.SS 73.4
Many say, What need is there of speaking so plainly? They might as well ask, Why need John the Baptist have provoked the anger of Herodias by telling Herod that it was unlawful for him to live with his brother’s wife? The forerunner of Christ lost his life by his plain speaking.SS 73.5
So men who should be guardians of God’s law have argued, till policy has taken the place of faithfulness and sin is allowed to go unreproved. When will the voice of faithful rebuke be heard once more in the church?SS 74.1
“Thou art the man.” 2 Samuel 12:7. Words as plain as these spoken by Nathan to David are seldom heard in pulpits today, seldom seen in the public press. The Lord’s messengers should not complain that their efforts are without fruit until they repent of their desire to please men, which leads them to suppress truth.SS 74.2
It is not from love for their neighbor that ministers smooth down the message entrusted to them, but because they are self-indulgent and ease-loving. True love seeks first the honor of God and the salvation of souls. Those who have this love will not evade the truth to save themselves from the unpleasant results of plain speaking. When souls are in peril, God’s ministers will speak the word given them, refusing to excuse evil.SS 74.3
Would that every minister might show the courage that Elijah showed! Ministers are to “convince, rebuke, and exhort, be unfailing in patience and in teaching.” 2 Timothy 4:2, RSV. In Christ’s stead they are to encourage the obedient and warn the disobedient. With them worldly policy is to have no weight. They are to go forward in faith. They are not to speak their own words, but their message is to be, “Thus saith the Lord.” God calls for men like Elijah, Nathan, and John the Baptist—men who will bear His message regardless of consequences; men who will speak the truth though it call for the sacrifice of all they have.SS 74.4
God calls for men who will do faithful battle against wrong, warring against spiritual wickedness in high places. To such He will speak the words: “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:23.From Splendor to Shadow
Hospitality Rewarded
SS 68.6
The widow of Zarephath shared her morsel with Elijah, and in return her life and that of her son were preserved. And to all who give sympathy and assistance to others more needy, God has promised great blessing. His power is no less now than in the days of Elijah. “He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward.” Matthew 10:41.SS 69.1
“Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” Hebrews 13:2. Our heavenly Father still places in the pathway of His children opportunities that are blessings in disguise; and those who improve these opportunities find great joy. “If you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then ... you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.” Isaiah 58:10, 11, RSV.SS 69.2
Today Christ says, “He that receiveth you receiveth Me.” No act of kindness shown in Christ’s name will fail to be rewarded. And Christ includes even the lowliest of the family of God: “Whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones”—those who are as children in faith and knowledge—“a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.” Matthew 10:40-42.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 116, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 116, 1899, par. 4
Elijah was commissioned to bear a message to king Ahab, “The word of the Lord came to Elijah, ... saying, Go, shew thyself to Ahab; and I will send rain upon the earth. And Elijah went to show himself unto Ahab.” [1 Kings 18:1, 2.] There was a famine in Samaria, and Ahab had sent Obadiah, the governor of his house, to find grass for the cattle. “And as Obadiah was in the way, behold, Elijah met him; and he knew him, and fell on his face, and said, Art thou that my lord Elijah? And he answered him, I am; go tell thy lord, behold, Elijah is here.14LtMs, Ms 116, 1899, par. 6
“Was it not told my lord what I did when Jezebel slew the prophets of the Lord, how I hid an hundred men of the Lord’s prophets by fifty in a cave, and fed them with bread and water. And now thou sayest, Go, tell thy lord Behold, Elijah is here: and he shall slay me. And Elijah said, As the Lord of hosts liveth, before whom I stand, I will surely show myself unto him today. So Obadiah went to meet Ahab, and told him: and Ahab went to meet Elijah. And it came to pass, when Ahab saw Elijah, that Ahab said unto him, Art thou he that troubleth Israel? And he answered, I have not troubled Israel; but thou and thy father’s house: in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord.” [Verses 7-18.]