The God Contest
"The God Contest" is apart of the "Tales that Tell the Truth" series by the Good Book Company, and it’s no secret it’s my favorite for good reason!
The book tells the story of the biblical showdown between the prophet Elijah and the false god Baal. It starts by introducing us to King Ahab and Queen Jezebel, who were leading the people of Israel astray by worshiping Baal. But then Elijah comes on the scene and challenges the people to a "God contest" - a challenge to see which god, Baal or Yahweh, is the true God.
What follows is a dramatic account of Elijah's confrontation with Baal and his worshippers. While they call out to their god all day, nothing happens. But when Elijah calls on Yahweh, fire comes down from heaven and consumes the sacrifice, proving once and for all that Yahweh is the one, true God.
But the story doesn't end there. The book goes on to draw a parallel between this ancient contest and the ultimate showdown between Jesus and all the false gods of this world. Just as Elijah proved Yahweh's power, the book explains how Jesus proved his divinity by rising from the dead after being crucified.
As I read this book with my kids, I was struck by how clearly and compellingly it communicated these profound spiritual truths. And the illustrations by Catalina Echeverri are absolutely gorgeous, bringing the biblical narrative to life in a way that captivates the imagination.
Most importantly, "The God Contest" left my kids with a deep appreciation for who Jesus is and why his resurrection matters. It opened the door for us to have discussions about salvation, faith, and the importance of choosing to follow the one, true God. I can't recommend this book highly enough for any parent looking to nurture their child's spiritual growth.
