Once Jezebel hears of Elijah's victory over the prophets of Baal she is furious, and threatens death to the man of God. This is the Thirty Sixth Sermon in the series The Divided Kingdom; and exposition on First Book of the Kings.

The sermon surveys the book of Judges, contrasting it with the preceding conquest in Joshua to highlight Israel's rapid descent from victory into moral anarchy. It identifies the central problem as spiritual apathy and self-rule, summarized by the refrain that every man did what was right in his own eyes. The preacher explains how partial obedience and tolerated sin led to a downward spiral of idolatry, bondage, and civil war. Despite this national failure, God's persistent grace is shown through the raising up of judges and the preservation of the lineage leading to King David. Ultimately, the message points to Jesus Christ as the true King who offers deliverance from the cycle of sin and self-rule.

The Christian's Past Life (1Pet 4: 3-4)

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This sermon concludes the study of Exodus by examining the construction and erection of the tabernacle, emphasizing God's faithfulness in dwelling among His people despite their past idolatry. The preacher highlights themes of grace-based generosity, where the Israelites' overflowing offerings reflect a heart transformed by forgiveness, and the dignity of human labor as skilled work is empowered by the Spirit. The narrative culminates in the descent of God's glory, which bars even Moses from entering, thereby underscoring the absolute holiness of God and the necessity of atonement for access to His presence. These Old Testament events serve as a type pointing to Jesus Christ, the greater Prophet and High Priest who fulfilled the law and opened the way to God through His sacrificial death. Believers are encouraged to live with hope and reverence, knowing that Christ has secured their access to God's glory and that God continues to dwell within them by His Spirit.

The sermon examines the transient nature of earthly wealth through James 5, contrasting the fleeting beauty of riches with the enduring value of spiritual devotion. It identifies 'practical atheism' as a dangerous trap where individuals prioritize self-interest and autonomy over God, mistaking financial freedom for true liberty. By referencing passages like 1 Timothy 6 and Luke 12, the text warns that the pursuit of money often leads to idolatry and spiritual ruin rather than genuine gain. The preacher urges believers to reject the world's obsession with material success and instead seek godliness with contentment as their ultimate goal. Ultimately, the message calls for a shift in focus from temporary earthly treasures to eternal riches found in Christ.

AI Generated Summary: This historical theology study examines John Calvin's framework for religious epistemology as presented in the Institutes of the Christian Religion. The speaker outlines three primary sources through which humanity gains knowledge of God: self-reflection on human gifts, an innate sense of deity implanted in every conscience, and general revelation observed in creation. While these means provide a universal awareness of God's existence and power, they are insufficient for salvation due to the corrupting effects of sin on human reason. Consequently, special revelation through Scripture is necessary to correct misperceptions and reveal God as Redeemer. The sermon concludes that true knowledge of God requires the renewing work of the Holy Spirit and faith in Jesus Christ.

God established His care for His own in chapter 40. He now invites the nations to examine their ways. The nations continue in idolatry.

Dr. Schmidt examines several illustrations that Jeremiah uses to describe the spiritual adultery and idolatry that the Jews of Judah had embraced.