0368. A CALL TO DECISION.

A CALL TO DECISION.

"Then Moses stood at the gate of the camp, and said, Who is on the Lord’s side? let him come unto me" (Exo_32:20).

In the absence of Moses sin and iniquity, like an armed host, came into the camp of Israel. The whole nation is in danger of being swept away from the faith by a popular flood of idolatry. As it was then, so is it now. There is a great need for the stepping out of men in the Name of God. "Who is on the Lord’s side?" Amidst the present confusion it is sometimes difficult to know.

I. There are but Two Sides. The Lord’s side, and the other side. The other side may be divided into many ranks and companies, but they are godless. "He that is not for Me is against Me." Those who are not for the Prince of Peace are fighting in the ranks of the prince of darkness. There is no neutrality in this warfare. Mr. Face-both-ways is a traitor to God.

II. What is Implied in being on the Lord’s Side?

There is implied-

1. A Knowledge of Him. God hath manifested Himself to us in His Son, who hath said, "He that hath seen Me hath seen the Father."

2. A Faith in Him. If we know Him as the "Lord God merciful," etc., surely this will lead us to believe in Him (Joh_5:24).

3. A Decision for Him. Because Ruth believed Naomi she decided to live and die with her. True faith always leads to entire surrender.

4. An Abiding with Him. Clinging to His presence, and entering heartily into all His plans and purposes. A perfect acceptance of His will.

5. A resting on Him. The battle is the Lord’s. Those "out and out" for God rest on His strength for victory. "Greater is He that is for us," etc.

III. What is Demanded of those on the Lord’s Side?

That they declare themselves-

1. By Separation. "Let him come unto Me." Let us go forth unto Him without the camp, bearing His reproach (Heb_13:12-13).

2. By Consecration. "Consecrate yourselves" (Luk_11:29; fill your hands, margin). All true consecration is a filling and fitting for the service of God.

3. By Warfare (Luk_11:27). We wrestle not with flesh and blood (Eph_6:12). Take heed lest the curse of Meroz come upon you (Jdg_5:23).

Autor: James Smith