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Book of 1 Kings - Chapter 18 - Verse 22

18:22
Then said Elijah unto the people, I, even I only, remain a prophet of the LORD; but Baal's prophets are four hundred and fifty men.

Meaning

In this verse from 1 Kings 18:22, the prophet Elijah is speaking to the people of Israel, conveying an important message about the true God they should worship. By stating that he is the only remaining prophet of the Lord, Elijah is emphasizing the rarity and significance of those who remain faithful to God in a time when many had turned to false idols, including the followers of the pagan god Baal. Elijah's declaration serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of staying true to one's faith, even in the face of opposition or popular opinion. By contrasting himself as the sole prophet of the Lord against the vast number of Baal's prophets, Elijah highlights the importance of faithfulness and allegiance to the one true God.

Theological Overview

Elijah's proclamation in 1 Kings 18:22 highlights the stark contrast between himself as the lone faithful prophet of the Lord and the multitude of prophets of the false god Baal. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores Elijah's unwavering devotion to God in the face of overwhelming opposition. By emphasizing his solitary status as a true prophet, Elijah demonstrates his faith in the one true God and his willingness to stand firm in the midst of spiritual darkness. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of remaining steadfast in our faith, even when surrounded by those who worship false gods. Additionally, a word study of the Hebrew term for "prophet" in this verse reveals the significance of Elijah's role as a messenger of God, tasked with proclaiming the truth and challenging the idolatry of his time. Through his words and actions, Elijah exemplifies courage, conviction, and unwavering faith in the face of adversity.

American Standard Version

Then said Elijah unto the people, I, even I only, am left a prophet of Jehovah; but Baal's prophets are four hundred and fifty men.
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