======================================================================== MAKE A DECISION! by Theodore Epp ======================================================================== Summary: The sermon emphasizes the importance of making a definite decision about our faith, choosing between serving God and serving other gods. Topics: "Decision Making", "Faithfulness to God" Scripture References: Deuteronomy 30:19-20, Joshua 24:15, 1 Kings 18:21, Psalm 86:11, Matthew 6:24, Luke 9:62, Romans 12:2, James 1:8, 1 John 2:15-17, Revelation 3:15-16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ DESCRIPTION ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Theodore Epp emphasizes the critical need for making a decisive choice in our faith, as illustrated by Elijah's challenge to the Israelites at Mount Carmel. He highlights how God influenced both Ahab and the people to gather, despite their initial contempt for Elijah, underscoring the importance of choosing between the one true God and false idols. Epp calls for a commitment to God, urging believers to reject a divided heart and to serve Him wholeheartedly, as we face modern temptations of materialism. The sermon reminds us that indecision is a choice against God, and we must actively choose whom we will serve. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ CONTENT ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1 Kings 18:20-24 God worked not only in Ahab's heart but also in the hearts of the Israelites. He subdued the king so that he obeyed Elijah's orders, and He also made the people of Israel willing to gather at Mount Carmel. Even the 450 prophets of Baal attended, though the 400 prophets of the goddess Asherah may have anticipated what was to follow, for apparently they did not respond to the command to meet at Carmel. It is very possible that all of the Israelites, those of the king's household and the false religious leaders who came to Carmel had contempt in their hearts for Elijah; nevertheless, a power beyond themselves caused them to come. Seven times during the course of that great day, Elijah spoke, and his words were the true index of his heart. His first words were addressed to the people of Israel, not to the prophets of Baal: "How long halt ye between two opinions?" (1 Kings 18:21). Elijah demanded a definite decision on their part. There was only one true God, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the great I Am. There was no other God. He will not accept a divided heart on the part of His people. We, too, have a decision to make in this day. We must decide between the god of materialism and the God of grace. We cannot serve God and money or other material objects. The individual who is not for Christ is against Him. "Choose you this day whom ye will serve" (Josh. 24:15). ======================================================================== Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/theodore-epp/make-a-decision/ ========================================================================