Baal. 1 Chon. Viii. 33, 34.
F.B. Meyer explores the dangers of idolatry through the story of Saul and Jonathan, emphasizing the importance of family devotion to God.
F.B. Meyer discusses the significance of Baal worship in the context of Saul's reign, illustrating how Saul's initial devotion to Jehovah deteriorated into pride and self-sufficiency, leading him to embrace idolatry. The name Merib-baal, given to Jonathan's son, symbolizes a strong opposition to Baal, reflecting Jonathan's deep piety and commitment to God amidst his father's decline. Meyer emphasizes the importance of a unified devotion to God within families, noting that Saul's disloyalty not only led to personal ruin but also negatively influenced the nation. The sermon serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the need for steadfast faith in the home.
Text
baal. 1 Chon. viii. 33, 34.
BAAL was the idol‑god of Zidon and of many surrounding nations. This idol, representing the sun in his productive force, was worshipped with impure and scandalous rites. The introduction of this name into the appellation of one of Saul's sons indicates the secret root of the declension and consequent misfortunes of that ill‑fated monarch. In the earlier part of his reign he was perfect in his allegiance to Jehovah ‑‑ Jonathan means "Gift of Jehovah " ‑‑ but as the years went on, he became proud and seIfsufficient; he turned to Baal, the Spirit of the Lord departed from him, and an evil spirit rushed in to take His place, as wind rushes in to fill a vacuum.
The name which Jonathan gave his son had another significance. Merib‑baal is one who opposes Baal. It is as though he would indelibly stamp upon his child an undying hatred and opposition to that idolatry which was undoing his father's character and kingdom. In this choice of his child's name we also gather the deep‑seated piety and devotion of that noble soul, whose heart was true to God amid the darkening shadows of his father's reign. It was this that probably drew David and him so closely in affinity.
How absolutely necessary it is for the peace of a household that there should be a oneness of devotion to God! Where that is the first consideration, there is peace and blessedness; and that it may be so, it is of the greatest importance that the parents should be constant in their godly allegiance. The ruin of Saul's home, family, and realm, began in his personal disloyalty to God; and how far he influenced the nation for evil it is difficult to estimate.
Sermon Outline
-
I
- Introduction to Baal as an idol-god
- Historical context of Baal worship
- Implications of Saul's turn to Baal
-
II
- The significance of Jonathan's name
- Merib-baal's opposition to Baal
- The legacy of naming in faith
-
III
- The importance of family devotion to God
- Consequences of disloyalty to God
- Influence of personal faith on the family and nation
-
IV
- The relationship between Saul and Jonathan
- David's affinity with Jonathan
- Lessons from Saul's decline
Key Quotes
“The introduction of this name into the appellation of one of Saul's sons indicates the secret root of the declension and consequent misfortunes of that ill-fated monarch.” — F.B. Meyer
“It was as though he would indelibly stamp upon his child an undying hatred and opposition to that idolatry which was undoing his father's character and kingdom.” — F.B. Meyer
“The ruin of Saul's home, family, and realm, began in his personal disloyalty to God.” — F.B. Meyer
Application Points
- Cultivating a strong family faith can protect against the influences of idolatry.
- Parents should be steadfast in their devotion to God to foster peace in their homes.
- Understanding the legacy of our names and choices can guide future generations in faith.