Two Men, Two Masters, Two Missions
Fred Tomlinson teaches that God sovereignly prepares and calls His servants to boldly confront sin and proclaim His judgment, exemplified by Elijah and Obadiah's contrasting missions during Israel's dark times.
This sermon delves into the contrasting lives of two men, Elijah and Obadiah, serving different masters and missions. Elijah, chosen by God, boldly confronts King Ahab with God's judgment, while Obadiah, though claiming devotion to God, compromises by serving a wicked king. The sermon challenges listeners to examine who they are truly serving and to respond to God's call with radical obedience and repentance, emphasizing the importance of being sensitive to God's leading and avoiding compromise.
Sermon Outline
-
I. The Dark Period of Israel and the Rise of Evil Kings
- Omri and Ahab's evil reign provoking God's anger
- Israel's rejection of God for false gods
- The spiritual crisis setting the stage for God's intervention
-
II. God's Preparation of Elijah in Secret
- Elijah's hidden life in Gilead
- God's sovereign timing and calling
- Elijah's earnest prayer and sensitivity to God
-
III. Elijah's Bold Mission and Obedience
- Elijah confronts King Ahab with God's judgment
- God's protection and provision during Elijah's retreat
- Elijah's readiness to obey despite danger
-
IV. The Meeting of Two Men: Elijah and Obadiah
- Obadiah's fear of the Lord and protection of prophets
- The contrast between Elijah's boldness and Obadiah's reverence
- God's sovereign orchestration of their encounter
Key Quotes
“God prepares his instruments, he prepares his people in secret.” — Fred Tomlinson
“Elijah was a man of unhesitating obedience to his master and he heads out on his mission.” — Fred Tomlinson
“Too often the things that we deem to be our blessings actually cripple us and hinder us from becoming the men and women of God that God would have us to be.” — Fred Tomlinson
Application Points
- Stay attentive and sensitive to God's voice in your daily life, even in quiet or hidden seasons.
- Respond to God's call with bold obedience, regardless of the potential risks or challenges.
- Avoid complacency and spiritual dullness by actively pursuing a vibrant relationship with God.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Elijah and why is he important in this sermon?
Elijah was a prophet chosen by God to confront the evil kings of Israel, demonstrating bold obedience and earnest prayer during a dark period.
What does the title 'Two Men, Two Masters, Two Missions' refer to?
It refers to Elijah and Obadiah, two men serving God with different roles and missions during Israel's crisis.
How does God prepare His servants according to the sermon?
God often prepares His servants in secret, progressively awakening their hearts and equipping them for His purposes.
What challenge does the speaker give to listeners?
Listeners are challenged to remain sensitive to God's voice, obey His call boldly, and avoid spiritual dullness despite life's comforts.
What is the significance of Elijah's obedience?
Elijah's unhesitating obedience exemplifies faith and courage to act on God's word regardless of personal risk.