Prophet of Fire: A Novel

This novel takes place after the division of the kingdom, when Ahab and Jezebel ruled Israel and were attempting to force the acceptance of Baal worship on the Israelites to replace their faith in Israel's God. The story vividly portrays the apostasy and political intrigue of the rulers, the sexual debauchery of the heathen priests and prophets, and the wavering faith of the Israelites in the face of materialistic and sensual appeals. Elijah is portrayed graphically, both in his vociferous and angry proclamations of God's wrath upon his disobedient people, and his almost superhuman strength as he flees from the forces of Jezebel. The contest on Mount Carmel is described with such clarity that the frenzied and futile attempts of the heathen prophets, and the powerful efforts of Elijah, come breathtakingly to life. "Prophet of Fire" is not all pleasant reading. The story is harsh and the author states in the preface that the story needs to be told today because of the striking parallels between 9th century Israel and 20th-21st century America.

William H. Stephens was employed until his retirement by LifeWay Christian Resources in various editorial positions, including editor of "Biblical Illustrator" for 10 years (a Bible background and archeology magazine). He received his masters from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and his doctorate from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is author of eleven books and scores of articles. He has traveled extensively throughout the Near East and Europe, and has taught and lectured in churches and meetings throughout the U.S. and several foreign countries. Currently, he is adjunct professor at Belmont University in Nashville, TN.