So Ahab summoned all the Israelites and assembled the prophets on Mount Carmel. Then Elijah approached all the people and said, “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow Him. But if Baal is God, follow him.”

But the people did not answer a word. vs20-21

We are to follow our Lord Jesus Christ because in Him is plenteous redemption. He is the Savior from the wrath of God. Baal - the false gods of this world and false Christianity - can do nothing.

First, follow Jesus: In Him is life everlasting and the forgiveness of sins. In Him is every spiritual blessing, including the good fear of the Lord and holiness.

“For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence.” [Eph 1:4]

In Him we have the Holy Spirit who enables us to rejoice and be happy, as we do God’s will, walking in forgiveness and love.

Live for the glory of Jesus Christ, and you live rightly: He has a reward for you - something the world cannot give or take away. Put your trust in Christ.

Secondly, follow the word of Christ, which is the Bible. We must stop listening to false prophets and learn the true gospel. Too many have been moved by every wind of doctrine, so they are exploited by greedy prophets who promise them riches. These are hucksters, men of corrupt minds, who turn spiritual things into carnal and use the Scriptures to promote themselves!

It is not enough to carry a bible and sing loudly in church: We must have the true understanding of God’s grace - that EVERYTHING is by grace and freely given. We must get holiness as the gift of God, not something that we pay for, and we must understand that the kingdom is spiritual.

“My kingdom is not of this world,’ said Jesus. ‘If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I wouldn’t be handed over to the Jews. As it is, My kingdom is not of this world.” [John 18:36]

Too many are promised things that never happen, but they bow down to false prophets in fear! The truth sets you free and brings us to Christ by grace. What can man do for you, except point you to the One who saves sinners?

Our confidence is in Christ, not man. Follow Him.

Thirdly, follow Christ unto death. We cannot waver, we cannot go back, and we must not compromise. It will cost you greatly to preach the truth.

I know a pastor of a tiny church that has abandoned him. He doesn’t know where he’ll meet or what God is doing. I believe I do. God is giving him necessary trials and purging him from the arm of the flesh [1 Pet 1:6-7]. He is learning that he doesn’t need anyone’s support but God’s, and that God will see him through. Then, his ministry will have more power: boldness will arise and confidence in God, rather than the support and approval of man. This is a good thing, but it hurts, and it is going to happen to you.

“Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Look, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison to test you, and you will suffer tribulation for ten days. Be faithful even unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.” [Rev 2:10]

God, by His sovereign control and dominion, is going to give Satan the space to try you; it is for an appointed time, and faithfulness is our only consideration. If we hold on, then there is a reward. If we draw back, because it is too hot in the kitchen, then we’ll suffer loss. Keep looking to Christ in your trials, and He will strengthen you. You will shine on the other side and escape the second death.

“Anyone who has an ear should listen to what the Spirit says to the churches. The victor will never be harmed by the second death.” [Rev 2:11]

Many may persecute you for following the TRUE WAY of Jesus Christ, but you have only gained. Baal can do nothing.