1 Kings 18:24

KJV

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. And all the people answered and said, It is well spoken.

KJV (with Strong's)

And call {H7121} ye on the name {H8034} of your gods {H430}, and I will call {H7121} on the name {H8034} of the LORD {H3068}: and the God {H430} that answereth {H6030} by fire {H784}, let him be God {H430}. And all the people {H5971} answered {H6030} and said {H559}, It is well {H2896} spoken {H1697}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then, you, call on the name of your god; and I will call on the name of ADONAI; and the God who answers with fire, let him be God!" All the people answered, "Good idea! Agreed!"

Berean Standard Bible

Then you may call on the name of your god, and I will call on the name of the LORD. The God who answers by fire, He is God.” And all the people answered, “What you say is good.”

American Standard Version

And call ye on the name of your god, and I will call on the name of Jehovah; and the God that answereth by fire, let him be God. And all the people answered and said, It is well spoken.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 18:24 captures the definitive terms of Elijah's challenge to the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, proposing a contest of divine power where the deity who answers by fire will be recognized as the one true God. This pivotal verse encapsulates the high stakes of the spiritual showdown, setting the stage for a dramatic demonstration of Yahweh's supremacy over all false gods. The people's immediate and unanimous affirmation, "It is well spoken," underscores the perceived fairness and necessity of this ultimate test of allegiance in a nation deeply divided by idolatry.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the climax of Elijah's bold proposition following his re-emergence after a prolonged drought, a divine judgment detailed in [1 Kings 17](/1_kings/17 "1 Kings 17 - Elijah and the Widow of Zarephath"). The narrative builds from Elijah's direct confrontation with King Ahab in [1 Kings 18:17-19](/1_kings/18-17 "1 Kings 18:17-19 - Elijah Confronts Ahab") to the gathering on Mount Carmel. Prior to this verse, Elijah has challenged the wavering Israelites, asking, "How long halt ye between two opinions? if the LORD be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him" ([1 Kings 18:21](/1_kings/18-21 "1 Kings 18:21 - Elijah's Challenge to the People")). Verse 24 provides the concrete terms for resolving this spiritual ambiguity, establishing a clear, undeniable criterion for divine authenticity. The subsequent verses ([1 Kings 18:25-39](/1_kings/18-25 "1 Kings 18:25-39 - The Contest on Mount Carmel")) detail the execution of this challenge, culminating in God's dramatic intervention and the people's repentance.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of 1 Kings 18 unfold during the reign of King Ahab and Queen Jezebel, a period marked by intense syncretism and the aggressive promotion of Baal worship in Israel. Jezebel, a Phoenician princess, had imported her native religion, establishing temples and supporting hundreds of Baal and Asherah prophets. Baal was a Canaanite storm god, associated with thunder, lightning, rain, and fertility—precisely the elements that had been withheld during the three-and-a-half-year drought ([1 Kings 17:1](/1_kings/17-1 "1 Kings 17:1 - Elijah Predicts Drought")). Mount Carmel, a fertile mountain range overlooking the Mediterranean, was a traditional site for worship, possibly even for Baal. The challenge to "answer by fire" was particularly potent; while Yahweh had historically demonstrated His presence with fire (e.g., [Exodus 3:2](/exodus/3-2 "Exodus 3:2 - The Burning Bush"), [Leviticus 9:24](/leviticus/9-24 "Leviticus 9:24 - Fire Consumes the Offering")), Baal was also associated with lightning and storms. This set up a direct, undeniable contest over who truly controlled the heavens and brought rain—and thus, who was the true source of life and blessing.

* **Key Themes:** This verse is central to several overarching themes in 1 Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully asserts the **Supremacy and Exclusivity of Yahweh** over all other gods, particularly the impotent idols of the surrounding nations. Elijah's challenge forces a confrontation that exposes the emptiness of idolatry and affirms that "there is no other God" ([Isaiah 45:5](/isaiah/45-5 "Isaiah 45:5 - No God Apart from Me")). Secondly, it highlights **Divine Revelation through Power and Action**, demonstrating that the God of Israel is not a distant or passive deity but one who actively intervenes in human affairs and reveals His truth through undeniable supernatural acts. The specific test of fire serves as a visible, tangible sign of His presence and authority, echoing earlier instances of divine fire as a sign of acceptance or judgment. Finally, the verse underscores the theme of **Confrontation of Idolatry and Call to Decisive Faith**. Elijah's challenge demands a clear choice from the people, who had been "limping between two different opinions" ([1 Kings 18:21](/1_kings/18-21 "1 Kings 18:21 - Elijah's Challenge to the People")), compelling them to abandon their spiritual syncretism and return to exclusive worship of the LORD. The people's agreement, "It is well spoken," signals their readiness for a clear demonstration of truth.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **"call ye on the name" (Hebrew: קָרָא בְּשֵׁם, _qara' b'shem'_):** This phrase signifies more than a mere utterance of a name; it implies an invocation, an appeal to the very essence, character, and power of the deity. In ancient Near Eastern thought, a "name" (שֵׁם, _shem_) was not just a label but represented the full identity, authority, and presence of the one named. To "call on the name" of a god was to appeal to their inherent power and nature for intervention, protection, or revelation. Elijah's challenge sets up a direct comparison of which deity's "name" holds true power and authority.
* **"answereth by fire" (Hebrew: עָנָה בָאֵשׁ, _'anah ba'esh'_):** The verb "answereth" (_'anah_) means to respond, often in a judicial or authoritative manner, signifying a divine verdict. The means of response, "by fire" (_ba'esh_), is crucial. Fire in the Old Testament is a multifaceted symbol: it represents God's holy presence (e.g., the burning bush, [Exodus 3:2](/exodus/3-2 "Exodus 3:2 - The Burning Bush")), His acceptance of sacrifice (e.g., [Leviticus 9:24](/leviticus/9-24 "Leviticus 9:24 - Fire Consumes the Offering")), His purifying judgment (e.g., [Numbers 16:35](/numbers/16-35 "Numbers 16:35 - Fire Devours the Rebels")), and His overwhelming power. For Baal, a storm god, fire (lightning) was also a symbol of his power. The test by fire, therefore, was a direct challenge to Baal's supposed domain and a clear demonstration of Yahweh's absolute sovereignty.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And call ye on the name of your gods":** This clause initiates the challenge, granting the prophets of Baal the first opportunity to demonstrate their deity's power. It highlights the futility of their worship, as their gods are deaf and unresponsive, unable to act on their behalf despite fervent and prolonged invocation. This sets a clear precedent for the subsequent failure of Baal's prophets.
* **"and I will call on the name of the LORD":** This is Elijah's counter-challenge, expressing his absolute confidence in the God of Israel. It emphasizes the singular nature of Yahweh, contrasting Him with the multitude of false gods. Elijah stands alone, yet his faith in the LORD's unique power and responsiveness is unwavering, setting the stage for a miraculous intervention.
* **"and the God that answereth by fire, let him be God":** This is the definitive criterion for the contest. It establishes a clear, observable, and undeniable test of divine authenticity. The phrase "let him be God" is a declaration of ultimate sovereignty and truth, implying that the outcome will unequivocally reveal who is the true and living deity worthy of worship and allegiance.
* **"And all the people answered and said, It is well spoken."**: This final clause signifies the people's immediate and unanimous acceptance of Elijah's terms. Their response, "It is well spoken" (literally, "good is the word"), indicates that they recognize the fairness, clarity, and decisive nature of the proposed test. It reflects their desperation for a clear sign and their implicit acknowledgment that such a demonstration is necessary to resolve their spiritual dilemma and reveal the true God.

#### Literary Devices
The passage in 1 Kings 18:24 is rich in literary devices that amplify its dramatic and theological impact. The most prominent is **Antithesis**, as Elijah sets up a direct opposition between "your gods" (Baal and Asherah) and "the LORD." This stark contrast highlights the fundamental conflict between idolatry and true worship, emphasizing the singular nature of Yahweh against the multiplicity and impotence of pagan deities. **Dramatic Irony** is also at play; while the prophets of Baal and the wavering Israelites are uncertain of the outcome, the biblical audience (and Elijah) knows that Yahweh alone is the true God, making Baal's eventual failure a foregone conclusion that heightens the tension and anticipation. The repeated emphasis on "calling on the name" and the specific test of "answereth by fire" creates a sense of **Parallelism** in the challenge, only to be broken by the stark contrast in results. Finally, **Symbolism** is central, with "fire" representing divine power, judgment, and acceptance. The people's simple yet powerful affirmation, "It is well spoken," serves as a moment of **Consensus**, uniting the nation in anticipation of a divine revelation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Kings 18:24 encapsulates a foundational theological truth: the absolute sovereignty and uniqueness of the God of Israel. This verse serves as a powerful declaration against syncretism and polytheism, asserting that there is only one true God who is active, responsive, and demonstrably powerful. It underscores the biblical emphasis on exclusive worship and the futility of trusting in human-made or demonic deities. The challenge to "answer by fire" highlights God's nature as a living, intervening deity who reveals Himself not just through words but through mighty deeds, demanding a decisive choice from His people. This divine self-revelation serves to vindicate His name and reclaim the allegiance of a nation that had strayed into idolatry, reaffirming the covenant relationship.

* [Deuteronomy 6:4](/deuteronomy/6-4 "Deuteronomy 6:4 - The Shema, Hear O Israel")
* [Psalm 115:3-8](/psalms/115-3 "Psalm 115:3-8 - Idols are Powerless")
* [Isaiah 45:5](/isaiah/45-5 "Isaiah 45:5 - No God Apart from Me")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Elijah's challenge on Mount Carmel, articulated in 1 Kings 18:24, remains profoundly relevant for believers today. In a world saturated with competing ideologies, material pursuits, and self-centered philosophies, we are constantly faced with modern "gods" that demand our allegiance and promise fulfillment, often leaving us spiritually "halting between two opinions." This verse calls us to a radical discernment: to critically examine what truly holds sway in our hearts and lives, and to seek a God who is not merely a concept but a living, active, and responsive presence. Like Elijah, we are challenged to possess a boldness in our faith, standing firm for the truth of God's Word even when it is unpopular or requires us to stand against prevailing cultural currents. The narrative reminds us that the God of the Bible is not a distant, inactive deity, but one who intervenes, answers prayer, and vindicates His name. While His answers may not always come in literal fire, His power to transform lives, circumstances, and entire communities remains undiminished. This passage compels us to move beyond spiritual apathy and make a decisive choice for the LORD, echoing the ancient call to choose whom we will serve, for our God is indeed a consuming fire ([Hebrews 12:29](/hebrews/12-29 "Hebrews 12:29 - Our God is a Consuming Fire")).

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "gods" or allegiances, whether material possessions, career, relationships, or self-image, compete for our ultimate devotion and loyalty today?**
* **How does Elijah's unwavering faith and singular devotion challenge us to stand firm for biblical truth in a world that often promotes spiritual syncretism or indifference?**
* **In what ways do we expect God to "answer by fire" in our lives, and how might He be revealing Himself and His power through less dramatic, yet equally profound, means?**

### FAQ
**Why was "fire" the chosen method for the test on Mount Carmel?**

Answer: The choice of "fire" as the criterion for divine authenticity was highly significant for several reasons. Firstly, fire was a powerful symbol in both Israelite and Canaanite religious contexts. For Israel, divine fire had historically signified God's presence, acceptance of sacrifice (e.g., [Leviticus 9:24](/leviticus/9-24 "Leviticus 9:24 - Fire Consumes the Offering")), and judgment. For Baal worshipers, Baal was a storm god associated with lightning and thunder, making fire a natural element of his supposed power. By choosing fire, Elijah set up a direct challenge to Baal's domain. Secondly, fire provided an undeniable, visible, and miraculous demonstration of power that could not be manipulated or explained away by human means. It was a clear, objective test that would leave no doubt as to which deity was truly active and powerful, forcing the people to confront the impotence of their idols.

**What does the people's response, "It is well spoken," reveal about their spiritual state?**

Answer: The people's immediate and unanimous affirmation, "It is well spoken," reveals their deep spiritual confusion and longing for clarity. As Elijah had previously challenged them, they were "halting between two opinions" ([1 Kings 18:21](/1_kings/18-21 "1 Kings 18:21 - Elijah's Challenge to the People")), unable to fully commit to either Yahweh or Baal. This phrase indicates that they recognized the fairness, logic, and decisive nature of Elijah's proposed test. They were tired of the spiritual ambiguity and the devastating drought, and they desperately needed a clear sign to resolve their dilemma. Their agreement signifies a willingness to be convinced by a powerful divine demonstration, setting the stage for their eventual repentance and return to the LORD after witnessing His power ([1 Kings 18:39](/1_kings/18-39 "1 Kings 18:39 - The People's Response After God Answers")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The dramatic confrontation on Mount Carmel, epitomized by 1 Kings 18:24, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Elijah's challenge for the "God that answereth by fire" to be acknowledged as God foreshadows the definitive revelation of God in His Son. Jesus is the ultimate answer to humanity's quest for the true God, not merely answering by fire, but embodying the very presence and power of God in human flesh. He is the [Word made flesh](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"), the [radiance of God's glory and the exact imprint of His nature](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - The Radiance of God's Glory"). While Elijah called on God to consume a sacrifice, Christ himself became the perfect sacrifice, whose acceptance by God was demonstrated not by literal fire, but by His glorious resurrection from the dead, conquering sin and death once and for all ([Romans 1:4](/romans/1-4 "Romans 1:4 - Declared Son of God by Resurrection")). The "fire" that truly descended was the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, empowering believers and testifying to Christ's completed work and ongoing presence ([Acts 2:3-4](/acts/2-3 "Acts 2:3-4 - Tongues of Fire at Pentecost")). Just as Elijah called the people to choose between Baal and the LORD, Jesus calls all humanity to choose Him as the [only way, truth, and life](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life"), declaring that [no one can serve two masters](/matthew/6-24 "Matthew 6:24 - No One Can Serve Two Masters"). In Christ, the supremacy of God is not merely demonstrated but fully embodied, offering not just a temporary sign but eternal salvation and reconciliation with the Father.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.