1 kings 18:34 - He said, “Do it a second time”; and they did it the second time. He said, “Do it a third time”; and they did it the third time.

Generated Verse: 1 kings 18:34

What does "1 kings 18:34" mean?


This verse is part of the story of Elijah's contest with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. Elijah is demonstrating the power of God by challenging the prophets of Baal to call down fire on their sacrifice. They fail. Then, Elijah takes his turn.

The verse, specifically 1 Kings 18:34, describes Elijah making the task of calling down fire even more difficult by:

Drenching the altar and the wood with water. This makes it even less likely that a fire could be started by any natural means.

Repeatedly pouring water over the offering. He has them pour water three times, filling the trench around the altar as well. This emphasizes the magnitude of the miracle that is about to happen. It's a deliberate act to show that only a powerful God could ignite a fire under such conditions.

Therefore, the meaning of "He said, 'Do it a second time'; and they did it the second time. He said, 'Do it a third time'; and they did it the third time." is:

Emphasis on God's power: It highlights the extraordinary nature of the miracle. No one can argue that the fire was started by chance or trickery.
Complete saturation: It reinforces the idea that everything was thoroughly soaked with water, making it nearly impossible for a fire to start naturally.
Obedience: It shows the people (likely Israelites who were wavering in their faith) following Elijah's instructions, even though they might have seemed strange or even counterproductive. This sets the stage for them witnessing the true power of God.
Undeniable miracle: When the fire does fall, it's an undeniable miracle. It leaves no room for doubt that it was an act of God.

In short, the repetition of pouring the water is a crucial detail that amplifies the miraculous nature of the fire that follows and underscores the power of God over the false god Baal.

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