The Israelites responded in two ways. First, they shouted
(rnn) which means to call loudly or to rejoice. It usually refers to a shout of joy, coupled with other words expressing praise toward God (Psalm 20:5; Isaiah 49:13). Second, the people fell
(npl) on their faces. These two responses show that the worship of God involves a total response of man to God. According to Wenham (p. 150), God's greatness and holiness cannot be ignored; he must be acknowledged by our whole being. Nothing less is adequate.
24 And fire came out from before the LORD and consumed the burnt offering and the pieces of fat on the altar, and when all the people saw it, they shouted and fell on their faces.