At Mount Carmel, the people in Israel were confronted with the disparity between the One True God and the idols that littered their homes, cities, and temples. In this display of the extraordinary presence, concern, power, and responsiveness of God, their idols looked feeble.
In this exercise, we’re going to spend time comparing the the reality of the Triune God (Father, Son and Spirit), to the idols we often treasure instead. Then, we’ll respond by declaring God’s infinite worthiness.
Suggestion: Put instrumental music in the background while you and your community process. This album good for that.
Consider God and Your Idols
As a community, family, or household, look at the attributes of God listed below and compare them to the things/people/institution you put your trust in. Take a few minutes to truly process and consider.
For example, how does Money compare to the personhood of God? How does Politics compare to the self-sufficiency of God? How does my control compare to the sovereignty of God?
Infinitude of God - God is Infinite (limitless). God is not limited by anything outside of His character. This applies to all of God’s attributes. (Example: The goodness of God means God is infinitely good, God is also infinitely just, infinitely loving, etc...)
God is Love - Everything he does, says, and creates is loving and an expression of his love.
God is Personal - God is a self-conscious being capable of thought, will, and interaction with His creation. God cares and is knowable.
God is Creator - The whole of creation came into existence through the will and power of God.
God is Life Giver - All of life was and is created by God and is dependent on Him.
God is Self-Existing - God has always existed. God does not have a beginning
God is Self-Self-Suficient - God has no needs, cannot improve and does not change. We, on the other hand, as created beings rely completely on God for our every breath.
God is Present - God is present everywhere at all times.
God is Power - God can do all things that are consistent with His character. God is all powerful.
God is Knowing - God has all knowledge.
God is Sovereign - God created everything and therefore all things are under His sovereign control.
God is Eternal - The Eternality of God refers to his timeless nature. God had no beginning, and will have no end.
God is Dependable - The Immutability of God means He cannot change in His nature, Character or dependability.
God is Perfect- God is completely flawless, lacks nothing and has no moral imperfection.
God is Holy - God is set apart from His creation.
Declare How Good God Is
After considering your idols compared to Jesus, spend time sharing out loud how God has been faithful, how he’s been better. Share how God has been present and powerful. Share how you’ve experience the character of God in your life.
After each person shares, say together, as the Israelites did: “The Lord, he is God!” Let this be your chant, if you will. This can be awkward, but it will bring your group into a unity will serve as a reminder of who God is.
My mouth will speak praise of the lord
To end this exercise, read Psalm 145 together. Take turns reading one verse at a time out loud, then read verse 21 out loud together.