Being an influencer

Influencers stand for something

Influencing Like Elijah: Stand Firm and Shine Bright

Bible Passage: 1 Ki 18:1–46

Summary: In this passage, the prophet Elijah confronts the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, showcasing God's sovereign power and encouraging the people of Israel to turn back to Him. Elijah's unwavering faith and influence culminate in God answering his prayer with fire, revealing the greatness of the true God over false idols.

Application: This message encourages children to influence their peers positively by standing firm in their faith and being examples of God's love and power. It shows them that, like Elijah, they can make a difference when they trust in God and live out their beliefs.

Teaching: The sermon teaches children the importance of being courageous and confident in sharing their faith. By studying Elijah’s actions, they learn the value of prayer, trust, and standing up for what is right, even when faced with opposition.

How this passage could point to Christ: Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal foreshadows Jesus Christ's ultimate victory over sin and death. Just as God revealed Himself through fire, Christ is the ultimate revelation of God's power and truth, inviting all to believe and follow Him.

Big Idea: Children can influence others for Christ by being bold in their faith, just like Elijah, showcasing God's power in their lives and encouraging others to follow Him.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider diving into the cultural context of Israel's idolatry during Elijah's time. Examine the typical views of influence in a child's world today through your Logos library, exploring current sociological studies on peer pressure and social dynamics. Understanding these aspects will enrich your application and help address children's real-life situations as they seek to influence in their spheres.

1. Stand Strong in Faith

1 Ki 18:1-19

Consider emphasizing how Elijah obeyed God's command to present himself to Ahab, even amidst danger, showcasing his unwavering faith. You could encourage children to be obedient to God's call, trusting that God equips them with courage. Relate Elijah's actions to how kids can stand firm and influence their friends positively, despite peer pressure or fear. This point could instill the lesson that God often prepares us for greater roles as influencers through obedience and faith, just as with Elijah, setting a precedent for Christ's obedience to God's will.

Once, a little girl was asked what faith meant. She cheerfully replied, "It's like believing in something even when you can't see it, like trusting that the sun is still shining behind the clouds!" This simple faith helps us see God's greatness, even in difficult times, just like the sun shines every day, regardless of whether we can see it or not.

It is better to be faithful than famous.

Theodore Roosevelt; Anonymous

2. Show Confidence in Truth

1 Ki 18:20-29

You might discuss how the prophets of Baal called upon their god with no response, contrasting Elijah's knowledge of the one true God. Perhaps guide children to recognize that true influence stems from knowing and relying on God, and not on popular trends or activities. Encourage children to be confident examples of faith, similar to how Elijah showcases God's power, teaching them that even when surrounded by loud voices, steadfast faith leaves a lasting impression, prefiguring how Christ stood firm against opposition.

Imagine a little boy who is terrified of the dark, convinced that there's something lurking beneath his bed. One night, his father comes in, flips on the light, and shows him that there’s nothing there. Just like that little boy, when we understand the truth of God, it shines a light on our fears and doubts, much like it did for Elijah when he confronted the prophets of Baal. Knowing God’s truth gives us the courage to stand firm against any challenge, banishing darkness and fear.

3. Prepare with Purpose

1 Ki 18:30-39

Maybe focus on how Elijah repaired the altar of the Lord before calling upon God, suggesting the importance of preparation in spiritual life. You could draw parallels to how Jesus repairs our broken relationship with God. Encourage children to prepare their hearts through prayer and reading Scripture, so they, like Elijah, can demonstrate God's power. Show them how this prepares them to influence positively by living authentic, faith-filled lives, drawing others toward God through their actions and words.

4. Pray with Perseverance

1 Ki 18:40-46

Consider illustrating the victory Elijah experienced, as he trusted God's guidance, bringing rain in an answered prayer which ended the drought. This could inspire children to understand the importance of perseverance and prayer in influencing others for Christ. Maybe remind them of how Elijah's enduring faith results in impactful actions, echoing Christ's victory over sin. Encourage children to trust in God's timing and answers, influencing their peers through consistent prayer and witnessing how God provides when we live obediently.

He was bold and courageous.

He was willing to stand up against things not of God

What does God desire?

God is #1 in your heart

To have a relationship with you

10 Commandments

What is the 1st commandment?

Exodus 20:3 ““You shall have no other gods before Me.”