Welcome to the Paul Tripp podcast, where pastor and bestselling author Dr. Paul David

Tripp connects the transforming power of Jesus Christ to everyday life.

Life in the kingdom of God can be confusing.

Often, things don't work out the way that you would hope and expect.

In today's episode, we'll continue through Paul's sermon series in Mark, and today, Paul unpacks three little parables that speak into the confusion of the disciples who have given

their lives to follow Christ and build his kingdom.

If you've been enjoying the Paul Tripp podcast, would you consider leaving a review?

Each review helps us reach more people with the

transforming power of Jesus Christ. Now, here's Paul with this message from the gospel of Mark.

Are there moments when, if you were honest, you would have to say you struggle with doubt.

Is there ever a time when it seems like what you're doing in the name of God isn't making a difference? We ought to be able to be honest about the struggle of faith.

Scripture surely is. As I was thinking about the parables we're going to look at this

evening, I was thinking about two famous names in scripture, one Elijah.

Great prophet of God, but had a stunning moment of doubt in his own life.

You'll remember the story Elijah had contested the prophets of Bail on Mount Carmel.

The 450 prophets had cut themselves and screamed and yelled and danced and no fire

ever came down to consume the sacrifice.

Elijah had an altar built and a trench built around the altar and water doused on the altar three times and prayed a simple

prayer and fire came down and consumed the sacrifice and the wood and the stones and all the water as well.

Now you would think that this would lead to great revival in Israel.

The next thing Elijah faces is that Queen Jezebel now has a contract out on his life.

And here's Elijah's prayer.

...