A Climatic Test - Conclusion

 The Baal prophets proceeded to set up their sacrifice and call on their god. "O Baal, answer us!" they cried and cried again. They kept at it as the minutes and then the hours passed by." But there was no voice, and there was no one answering." The Bible says. At noon Elijah began to mock them, asserting sarcastically that Baal must be to busy to answer them, that he was relieving himself in the privy, or that he was napping and someone need to wake him up.  "Call at the top of your voice, Elijahh urged those charlatans. Clearing, he saw Baal worship as ridiculous fakery, and he wanted God's people to see it for the fraud that it was. - 1 KINGS 18:26, 27. 

In response, the Baal priests became even more frenzied, " calling at the top of their voice and cutting themselves according to their custom with daggers and with lances, until they caused blood to flow out upon them." All to now avail! "There was not voice, and there was no one answering, and there was no one paying attention." (1 Kings 18:28, 29) Indeed, there was no Baal. He was an invention designed by Satan to lure people away from Jehovah. The truth is, choosing any master other than Jehovah leads to disappointment, even shame. - Read PSALM 25:3; 115:4-8.

Next time: The Answer 

From the jw.org publications

A Climatic Test

 Elijah next proposed a test. It was simplicity itself. The Baal priests were to set up an altar and lay out a sacrifice on it; then they were to pray to their god to light the fire. Elijah would do the same. He said that the "God that answers by fire is the true God." Elijah well knew who the true God was. So strong was his faith that he did not hesitate to give his opponents every advantage. He let those Baal prophets go first. So they chose their bull for sacrifice and approached Baal. - 1 KINGS 18:24, 25.

We do not live in age of miracles. However, Jehovah has not changed. We can be just as confident in him as Elijah was. For instance, when others disagree with what the Bible teaches, we need not fear to let them go ahead and have their say. Like Elijah, we can look to the true God to settle the matter. We do that by relying, not on ourselves, not on his inspired Word, which is designed "for setting things straight." - 2 TIMOTHY 3:16. 

Next time: A Climatic Test - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

"Limping" - How?

 The heights of Mount Carmel commanded a sweeping view-form the torrent valley of Kishon below to the Great Sea (Mediterranean Sea) nearby and to the mountains of Lebanon on the far northern horizon. But as the sun rose on this climatic day the vista was grim. A deathly pall hung over the once fertile land that Jehovah had given to the children of Abrahan.  It was now a land baked hard by the merciless sun, ruined by the folly of God's own people! As those people thronged, Elijah approached them and spoke: "How long will you be limping upon two different opinions? If Jehovah is the true God, go following him; but if Baal is, go following him." - 1 KINGS 18:21. 

What did Elijah mean by the expression "limping upon two different opinions"? Well, those people did not realize they had to choose between the worship of Jehovah and the worship of Baal. They thought they could have it both ways-that they could appease Baal with their revolting rituals and still ask favors of God. Perhaps they reasoned that Baal would bless their crops and herds, while "Jehovah of armies" would protect them in battle. (1 Samuel 17:45) They had forgotten a basic truth-one that still eludes many today.  Jehovah does not share his worship with anyone. He demands and is worthy of exclusive devotion. Any worship of him that is mixed with some other form of worship is unacceptable to him, even offensive! - Read EXODUS 20:5. 

So those Israelites were "limping" along like a man trying to follow two pathways at once. Many people today make a similar mistake, allowing other "baals" to creep into their life and push aside the worship of God. Heeding Elijah's clarion call to stop limping can us examine our own priorities and worship. 

Next time: A Climatic Test

From the jw.org publications 

A Long Struggle Reaches a Climax - Conclusion

 What made Baal worship so offensive ? It seduced Israel. luring many away from the true God. It was also a disgusting and brutal religion. It involved male and female temple prostitution, sexual orgies, and 3even the sacrifice of children. Jehovah   responded by sending Elijah to Ahab to announce a drougth would last until God's prophet proclaimed its end. (1 Kings 17:1) Several years passed before Elijah showed himself to Ahab and told him to gather the peopleand Baal prophets to Mount Carmel. 

What, though, does this struggle mean for us today? Some might assume that a story about Baal worship is irrelevant now, since we do not see temples and altars to Baal around us. But this account is not mere ancient history. (Romans 15:4) The word "Baal" means "owner" or "master." Jehovah told his people that they should choose him as their "baal" or husbandly owner. (Isaiah 4:5) Would you not agree that people will serve a variety of masters other than God Almighty? Whether people use their life in the service of money, career, recreation, sexual pleasure, or any of the countless gods that are worshipped instead of Jehovah, they choose a master. (Matthew 6:24; read Romans 6:16.) In Sense, the most potent elements that characterize Baal worship are thriving today. Reflecting on that ancient contest between Jehovah and Baal can help us make a wise decision about whom we will serve.

Next time: "Limping" - How? 

From the jw.org publications

A Long Struggle Reaches a Climax

 For much of his life, Elijah had helplessly watched as the best thing about his homeland and his people was pushed aside and trampled underfoot. You see, Israel was in the grip of a long struggle, a war between pure religion and false, between the worship of Jehovah God and the idolatry of the surrounding nations. In Elijah's day, that struggle had taken an especially ugly turn.

King Ahab had deeply offended Jehovah. He married Jezebel, the daughter of the king of Sidon. Jezebel was determined to spread Baal worship in the land of Israel and to eradicate the worship of Jehovah. Ahab quickly fell under her influence. He built a temple and an altar to Baal and took the lead in bowing down to this pagan god. - 1 KINGS 16:30-33.

Next time: A Long Struggle Reaches a Climax - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

He Stood Up for Pure Worship - Conclusion

 Ahead of that solitary prophet lay a day like no other in his life. As Elijah watched, the stage was being set for one of the most dramatic confrontations between good and evil that the world has ever seen. How did he feel as that day dawned? He was not impervious to fear, being "a man with feelings like ours." (Read James 5:17.) We can be sure, at least, of this much: Surrounded by faithless people, their apostate king, and murderous priests, Elijah keenly felt that he was all alone. - 1 KINGS 18:22.

What, though, had brought Israel to this crisis? And what does this account have to do with you? Consider Elijah's example of faith and how practical it can be for us today.

Next time: A Long Struggle Reaches a Climax

From the jw.org publications

He Stood Up for Pure Worship

 ELIJAH looked out over the crowd as they trudged up the slopes of Mount Carmel. Even in the dim light of the early morning, the poverty and want afflicting these people were plain to see. The drought, three and a half years long, had left its mark on them.

Among them strutted the 450 prophets of Baal, full of pride and burning hatred for Elijah, Jehovah's prophet. Queen Jezebel had executed many servants of Jehovah, but this man still stood firm against Baal worship. Ah, but for how long? Perhaps those priests reasoned that a lone man could never prevail against all of them. (1 Kings 18:4, 19, 20) King Ahab had also come in his royal chariot. He too bore no love for Elijah.

Next time: He Stood Up for Pure Worship - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

Was It a Sexual Relationship - Conclusion

 . Both men were loyal to God's Law.  Jonathan and David had in common their faith in and love for Jehovah God, and they swore their oath of friendship "in the name of Jehovah." (1 Samuel 20:41, 42) Obedience to Jehovah was thus a high priority for both men, and God's Law clearly condemned all forms of sexual immorality, including homosexual acts. (Leviticus 18:22; 20:13) So to simply imply that David and Jonathan had homosexual relations is to deny the very foundation of their friendship. 

Note: You have to know that it was not only love for God, for when love of God, you love your best friend, your wife or husband the same as these two men for each other. When you love God as much, that is how you should feel for your best friend or your spouse. Men for women. 

Nothing in the Bible suggests that either Jonathan or David had homosexual leanings or that there was anything sexual about their friendship. To state otherwise is to read something into the account that simply is not there.

Next time: He Stood Up for Pure Worship

From the jw.org publications

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IMMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN -Was It a Sexual Relationship?

 Some researchers have claimed that the relationship between Jonathan and David was a homosexual liaison. Does the Bible support that view? Consider the following points.

. The Bible verses used to support that view do not really suggest a sexual relationship.  Often cited are David's words about Jonathan: "More wonderful was your love for me than the love of women." (2 Samuel 1:26) Some also refer to the verses that mentioned that the two men kissed each other. (1 Samuel 20:41) However, such words and expressions of affection between two men were quite common in Bible times and in the culture of the Middle East, without suggesting anything sexual at all. - 1 SAMUEL 10:1; 2 SAMUEL 19:39. 

Note:  Also, if they had read the Bible correctly and asked God to help them to understand or discern it. It would tell you that Jehovah did not like or approve of same sex love or sexual relationships. Also, these people do not really know what real love is between friends or relatives or marriages or their would not be so many divorces. There is too much selfishness out there to know what true love is between people. Their minds seem dark to me to think such thoughts. 

. Both men were married to women and fathered Children. David had several wives and many children. (2 Samuel 5:13-16) Jonathan's wife is not named, but he fathered a son named Mephibosheth, or Merib-baal. - 2 SAMUEL 4:4; 1 CHRONICLES 8:34. 

Next time: Was It a Sexual Relationship? - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

"You Were Very Dear to Me" - Conclusion

 David never forgot his vow to Jonathan. Years later he sought out and took care of Jonathan's disabled son, Mephibosheth. (2 Samuel 9:1-13) Clearly, David had learned much from Jonathan's loyalty and honor and his willingness to stick loyally to a friend even when such loyalty came at a high price. Will we learn such lessons as well? Can we seek out friends like Jonathan? Can we show such friendship ourselves? If we help our friends to build and strengthen their faith in Jehovah, if we put our loyalty to God first, and if we remain loyal instead of seeking our own interests, we will be the kind of friend that Jonathan was. And we will imitate his faith.

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN -Was It aa Sexual Relationship? 

From the jw.org publications

"You Were Very Dear to Me" - Continue

 Jonathan went to battle at his father's side against the Philistines, avowed enemies of Israel. He could fight alongside his father in good conscience, for he did not let his father's wrongs get in the way of his own service to Jehovah. He fought bravely and loyally as he always had, but the battle went badly for Israel. Saul's wickedness had extended even to spiritism, a capital offense under God's Law, so Jehovah was no longer blessing Saul. Three of Saul's sons, including Jonathan were killed in battle. Saul was wounded and took his own life. - 1 SAMUEL 28:6-14; 312-6.

David was stricken with grief. That bighearted man even grieved for Saul, who had caused him so much misery and hardship! David wrote a dirge over Saul and Jonathan. Perhaps the most touching words relate to David's beloved mentor and friend: "I am distressed over you, my brother Jonathan; you were very dear to me. More wonderful was your love to me than the love of a women." - 2 SAMUEL 1:26. 

Next time: "You Were Very Dear to Me" - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

"You Were Very Dear to Me" -Continue

 "Do not be afraid" Jonathan told his young friend. He added this reassurance: "My father Saul will not find you." On what was that reassurance based? On Jonathan's deep faith that Jehovah's purpose would succeed. He went on: "You will be king over Israel." The prophet Samuel had been commissioned to say that years earlier, and Jonathan now reminded David that Jehovah's word is always reliable. And how did Jonathan see his own future? "I will become second to you." What priceless humility the man showed! He would be content to serve under the command of this man who was 30 years his junior, to serve as his supportive right hand! Jonathan concluded: "My father Saul also knows that." (1 Samuel 23:17, 18) In his heart, Saul knew that he was doomed to lose this fight against the man Jehovah had chosen to be the next king!

In the years that followed, David surely looked back often and fondly on that meeting. It was their last. Sadly, Jonathan's hope to become second to David was never realized. 

Next time: "You Were Very Dear to Me" -Continue 

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN - "Your Were Very Dear to Me"

 Saul's hatred for David grew into an obsession. Jonathan was helpless as he watched his father descend into a king of madness, amassing his army and leading it around the country, seeking to destroy one innocent man. (1 Samuel 24:1, 2, 12-15; 26:20) Did Jonathan take part? Interestingly, the Scriptures never mention him in connection with any of those misguided campaigns. Jonathan's loyalty to Jehovah, to David and to his own oath of friendship made such a thing impossible.

His feelings for his young friend never changed. In time, he found a way to meet David again. It was in Horesh, which means "Wooded Place." Horesh was in a wild mountainous region likely a few miles southeast of Hebron. Why did Jonathan risk going out to see this fugitive? The Bible tells us that his motive was to help David "find strength in Jehovah." (1 Samue 23:16) How did Jonathan do so?

Next time: "You Were Very Dear to Me" - Continue

From the jw.org publications

 

The Price of Loyalty - Conclusion

 The next morning, Jonathan went out into the field near David's hiding place. He fired off an arrow as agreed, letting David know that Saul was still intent on killing him. Then Jonathan sent his attendant back into the city. He and David were alone, so they had a fleeting chance to talk. Both men wept, and Jonathan sadly saw his young friend off as David started his new life as a refugee. - 1 SAMUEL 20:35-42. 

Jonathan's loyalty passed the test of self-interest. Satan, the enemy of all faithful, would surely have loved to see Jonathan follow in Saul's steps and put his own ambitions for power to glory first. Remember, Satan loves to appeal to the selfish inclinations of humans. He succeeded with Adam and Eve, our first parents. (Genesis 3:1-6) Yet he failed with Jonathan. How frustrated Satan must have been! Will you resist similar attempts? We live in times when selfishness is epidemic. (2 Timothy 3:1-5) Will we learn from Jonathan's selfless, loyal spirit? 

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN - "You Were Very Dear to Me" 

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN - The Price of Loyalty

 Jonathan tried again to reconcile Saul with David but he had even less success. David came to see Jonathan in secret, revealing that he feared for his own life. "There is only a step between me and death!" he told his older friend. Jonathan agreed to test out his father's feelings on the matter and let David know where things stood. While David hid, Jonathan would signal him the news by using a bow and arrows. Jonathan asked only to swear to this promise: "Never withdraw your loyal love from my household, even when Jehovah wipes out all the enemies of David from the face of the earth." David agreed that he would always look out for those of Jonathan's household. - 1 SAMUEL 20:3, 13-27.

Jonathan tried to speak well of David to Saul, but the king became enraged! He called Jonathan a "son of a rebellious woman" and derided his loyalty to David as shameful to the family. He tried to appeal to Jonathan's self-interest: "As long as the son of Jesse is alive on the earth, you and your kingship will not be firmly established." Unmoved, Jonathan again pleaded with his father: "Why should he be put to death? What has he done?" Saul exploded in violence! Though aged, Saul was still a mighty warrior. He hurled a spear at his son! Practiced though he may have been, he missed. Deeply hurt and humiliated, Jonathan left in anger. - 1 SAMUEL 20:24-34. 

Next time: The Price of Loyalty - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

The Challenge of Conflicting Loyalties - Conclusion

 Jonathan spoke up: "The king should not sin against his servant Daviid, for he has not sinned against you and what he has done for you had benefited you. He risked his lif3e to strike down the Philistine, so that Jehovah brought about a great victory for all Israel. You saw it, and you were overjoyed. So why should you sin against innocent blood in having David put to death for no reason?" In a rare moment of reasonableness, Saul listened to Jonathan and even swore not to harm David. But Saul was not a man of his word. After David had more successes, Saul was so full of jealous rage that he hurled a spear at him! (1 Samuel 19:4-6, 9, 10) But David escaped and fled Saul's court.

Have you ever faced conflicting loyalties? It can be very painful. In such situations, some would advise you that family should always come first. But Jonathan knew better.  How could he side with his father when David was a loyal, obedient servant of Jehovah? So Jonathan let his loyalty to Jehovah rule his decision. That was why he stood up for Davide. Still, although Jonathan's loyalty to God came first, he proved loyalty to his father by counseling him honestly instead of telling him what he wanted to her. Each one of us would benefit by imitating the way Jonathan showed loyalty. 

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN - The Price of Loyalty

From the jw.org publications 

The Challenge of Conflicting Loyalties

 At first, Saul was very fond of David and placed him in charge of his army. Before long, though, Saul fell victim to the very enemy that failed to conquer Jonathan-jealousy. David met with victory after victory against Israel's enemies, the Philistines. David thus won praise and admiration. Some women of Israel even sang: "Saul has struck down his thousands, and David his tens of thousands." Saul did not like that song.  "From that day on," we read, "Saul was always looking at David suspiciously." (1 Samuel 18:7, 9) He feared that David would try to take the kingship away from. That was foolish on Saul's part. True, David knew that he was to succeed Saul, but he never even considered supplanting Jehovah's anointed king while the man still reigned!

Saul schemed to get David killed in battle, but nothing worked. David kept winning battles and growing in the esteem of the people. Saul's next move was to try to unite his household-all his servants and his eldest son-in a plot to kill David! Imagine how sick at heart Jonathan must have been to see his father act that way! (1 Samuel 18:25-30; 19:1) Jonathan was a loyal son, but he was also a loyal friend. Now that those loyalties seemed to be in conflict, which one should win out? 

Next time: The Challenge of Conflicting Loyalties - Conclusion 

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN - The Foundation of Friendship -Conclusion

 The covenant they made was a real protection for their friendship. How so? You see, David knew what Jehovah had in store for him: He was to become the next king of Israel! Did he withhold the knowledge from Jonathan? Hardly! A good friendship such as theirs thrives on open communication, not on secrets and lies. How might learning of David's prospect have affected Jonathan? What if Jonathan had cherished a hope of becoming king one day and righting his father's wrongs? The Bible tells us nothing about any internal struggle Jonathan may have had; it tells us only of what truly matters, Jonathan's loyalty and his faith. He could see that Jehovah's spirit was with David. (1 Samuel 16:1, 11-13) So Jonathan fulfilled his oath and continued to view David, not as his rival, but as his friend. Jonathan wanted to see Jehovah's will done. 

That friendship turned out to be a great blessing. What can we learn from Jonathan's faith? Any servant of God does well to see the value of friendship. Our friends need not match our age or background, but they can do us enormous good if they have genuine faith. Jonathan and David were able to strengthen and encourage each other many times. And they would both need such help, for their friendship was about to face even greater tests.

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN -The Challenge of Conflicting Loyalties

From the jw.org publications