Pastor Allen Victor taught through 1 Kings 18:1–46 in a message titled “Seek Before You Speak.” He explained that Elijah faithfully spoke only what God had first spoken, demonstrating that a true prophet must be completely accurate and grounded in God’s Word. Pastor Allen contrasted Elijah’s bold obedience with the many false prophets who speak before seeking the Lord, warning believers to carefully discern every spiritual message according to Scripture. He also highlighted Obadiah’s quiet faithfulness, showing that while Christians often serve behind the scenes as salt and light, there are times when they must courageously become a voice for God in government, the workplace, the church, and within their own families. The message emphasized that fearing God produces boldness, while fearing people often leads to silence.

Pastor Allen continued by examining Elijah’s confrontation with Ahab and the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. He explained that Israel’s drought was God’s judgment against Baal worship and warned against the false promises of the prosperity gospel, reminding the church that God’s truth must never be exchanged for the pursuit of earthly gain. As Elijah challenged the nation to choose between the Lord and Baal, he demonstrated that one person standing with God is never outnumbered. Pastor Allen showed that Elijah’s confidence rested entirely on God’s Word and that genuine prayer always began with God’s will rather than man’s desires.

The sermon concluded with Elijah’s simple but powerful prayer that brought fire from heaven, proving that the Lord alone is God. Pastor Allen emphasized that prayers offered according to God’s Word are effective, and that persistent faith continues trusting God’s promises even before visible evidence appears. Just as Elijah heard the sound of rain before the clouds arrived and later outran Ahab through God’s strength, believers were encouraged to rely on the Lord instead of their own efforts, remembering that God is able to accomplish far more through surrendered faith than human strength alone.

Calvary Chapel West Jacksonville is under the leadership of Pastor Allen Victor.

Scripture: 1 Kings 18:1–46; Deuteronomy 13:1–5; Deuteronomy 18:20–22; Romans 8:31; 1 Corinthians 10:19–20.