The answer is: Lighting a fire

1 Kings 18

In our thrilling showdown on Mount Carmel, Elijah really brought the drama as he challenged the prophets of Baal. This wasn't just a casual debate; it was a heart-pounding contest to see whose god could light up the altar with fire. Now, picture this: 450 prophets of Baal goin’ all out, dancing, singing, cutting themselves – whatever it took to win the favor of their god. Yet, despite their fervent efforts from morning till noon, there wasn't even a spark!

What’s wild is the symbolism behind fire in biblical narratives. Fire often represents God’s presence, purification, and sometimes, judgment. Remember how God appeared to Moses in a burning bush? Here, God’s fiery display would seal the deal on who the real deity was, and it proved to be a powerful moment for the Israelites who had been wavering in their faith.

Elijah, on the other hand, just had to speak the word, show the people the soaked altar, and BAM! Heavenly fire came down and consumed it all – wood, stones, and even the water in the trench surrounding it. Talk about an epic finale! This moment not only reinstated God's power but also turned the hearts of the people back toward genuine worship. It’s reminders like these that echo down the ages, illustrating the growing unjustified certainties people struggle with today in identifying what is truly divine or meaningful.