By Steve Horn
In the story of Elijah’s epic showdown with King Ahab—which in reality is a showdown between Yahweh, the one true God, and Baal—Elijah asks a great question.
“How long will you hesitate between two opinions? If Yahweh is God, follow Him. But if Baal, follow him.” (1 Kings 18:21)
I see four things about this question.
- This is a question for every generation. Choosing to follow God or not is a question of every generation and every person. Every single one of us must choose.
- This is a question of our own discipleship. The choices are clear, and we must make a clear and decisive choice. We cannot waiver in our decision.
- This is a question that directs our evangelism. In pointing people to Christ, we must point them to a decision. We cannot just talk about Jesus; we must call people to make a choice regarding Jesus.
- This is not a question that automatically gets a response. It didn’t for Elijah for the rest of the verse says, “But the people didn’t answer him a word.”
Pray for someone today who needs to make a decision for Christ!
Steve Horn is senior pastor of the First Baptist Church, Lafayette. This editorial first appeared on his blog.
