Oct. 1 2021

Read: 1 Kings 18:21-39

+++ This passage describes a time when Israel had slipped into rampant idolatry. King Ahab and his wife Jezebel worshiped false gods. People were troubled and confused about whom they should follow. Elijah called them to choose the true God. “How long halt ye between two opinions?” They could not serve God and Baal at the same time. In John 6, we see people facing a similar question. They were following Jesus because of the miracles He performed. Jesus tested them to see how many really trusted Him. He declared Himself to be the Living Bread that came down from Heaven. But when He said that He is the Bread that must be eaten, it was too much for many to accept. They turned back and walked no more with Him. Note Jesus’ response and Peter’s answer.  

+++ Then said Jesus unto the twelve, “Will ye also go away?” Then Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.” John 6:67-68  

+++ Peter’s words in John 6 were a response to the call for undivided loyalty. Both Elijah and Christ knew that divided loyalty is fatal. We cannot follow the god of this world and follow Jesus. 

+++ Might we be at this place? Are we wholly committed to follow only Jesus? Are we genuinely convinced that the things of the world are a hindrance and danger to us? Have we come to the place that Peter did, where no other attraction is an acceptable alternative? For Peter there was no question. “Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life.” This loyalty meant a life of suffering and hardship that ended in death by crucifixion, upside down. It is time we are convinced. The growing wave of moral decay that is sweeping the world, and the willingness of leaders to let it happen, could well lead to Christians being forced to declare their loyalties at the threat of imprisonment. The cost of discipleship is rising. Will you also go away? Or will you stay?

+++ ~James Baer