Religious Indecision

RELIGIOUS INDECISION

(1 Kgs. 18:21)

INTRO:In the chapter of our text there is a conflict between Elijah and the prophets of Baal. Ahab had been trying to serve Baal, taking the nation along with him. Elijah then asks, “how long halt ye between two opinions?” His point is: “Make up your minds; Serve God or Baal!” Religious indecision – what about it?

I    IT IS UNREASONABLE
     A. It is reasonable for the creature to serve the Creator.
         1. God created man (Gen. 1:27; cf. Rom. 1:25).
         2. He sustains our very lives (Acts 17:28).
         3. Therefore, it is unreasonable not to follow him.
     B. It is reasonable to prepare for the future.
         1. No preparation can be made so long as a state of indecision exists.
         2. We prepare for material things – food, clothing, etc.
         3. It is unreasonable not to prepare for eternity.
     C. It is reasonable for the sinner to trust in God.
         1. God the only one that can save him!
         2. Where else can one turn (John 6:68).
         3. Man’s trust should be in God (Psa. 9:10).

II   IT IS SINFUL
     A. God forbids it.
         1. “Choose ye this day …” (Josh. 24:15).
         2. “Now is the day of salvation” (2 Cor. 6:2).
         3. Our text – “serve God or Baal.”
     B. These passages show us God is not pleased with religious indecision.
         1. Took a miracle to convince Peter (Acts 10:9-18)!

III  IT IS DANGEROUS
      A. Because each day the decision becomes harder.
          1. Hearts become hardened by delay.
          2. Time heals some things – but not the sin sick soul.
      B. Dangerous because of the nearness of .
          1. No last minute preparations are allowed.
          2. “What is your life …” (Jas. 4:14)?
          3. Sin of neglect (Heb. 2:1-3).
          4. Note Felix (Acts 24:15).

IV TOO MUCH IS INVOLVED
       A. All eternity is involved in religious indecision.
           1. A long time – eternity. Can’t really “spend it;” can only abide in it.
           2. No escape from one’s ultimate destination.
       B. Who makes the choice?
           1. “Choose ye …” (Josh. 24:15).
           2. Consequences of our destiny are of our own making – not God’s.
      C. Our own souls are involved.
          1. Man’s dearest possession.
          2. Can you think of anything you would trade your soul for (cf. Matt. 16:26)?

CONCLUSION: Are you in religious indecision? If so, come out of it. Serve God or Baal! Quit “halting between two opinions.” The right choice is to serve God, for this is the whole of man (Eccl. 12:13). Religious indecision can cost you your soul!