Who Is On The Lord's Side? Series

WHO IS ON THE LORD'S SIDE?

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Kings 18:21

Supporting Texts: Exodus 32:26; Joshua 24:15; Revelation 3:15-16; Matthew 10:32-33; 2 Timothy 1:7-8

INTRODUCTION:

Mount Carmel was the place of decision. The nation of Israel, once devoted to Yahweh, had drifted into confusion and compromise. Under Ahab’s leadership and Jezebel’s influence, Baal worship had become prominent, and the true worship of God had been silenced. The people had not openly rejected God, but they had also embraced a false god—creating a dangerous spiritual mixture.

When Elijah stood before them, he posed a decisive question that pierced through their silence and neutrality: “How long halt ye between two opinions? If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him.” This was not just a rhetorical question—it was a divine call to choose sides. God does not entertain double loyalty. He demands full commitment.

In every generation, this question echoes—Who is on the Lord’s side? The line between compromise and conviction must be clearly drawn. God is looking for those who will boldly stand for Him, no matter the cost.

1. SPIRITUAL NEUTRALITY IS DANGEROUS

Indecision is a decision in itself—it often leads to compromise.

a) “How long halt ye between two opinions?” (1 Kings 18:21)

Elijah exposed their spiritual paralysis—wavering between two gods.

b) God requires undivided allegiance

You cannot serve God and Baal. There is no middle ground in the kingdom.

c) Indifference to God’s truth opens doors to deception

Their silence revealed how far they had drifted spiritually.

d) The enemy thrives in the space where conviction is lacking

When you’re silent about truth, evil grows louder.

Biblical Example: The Laodicean church was lukewarm, and God warned He would spew them out (Revelation 3:15-16).

2. GOD DEMANDS A DECISION FOR HIM—NOT JUST AFFILIATION

Knowing about God is not the same as standing for Him.

a) “If the Lord be God, follow Him.” (1 Kings 18:21)

God does not need admirers—He seeks followers.

b) Genuine faith expresses itself in action, not just belief

Elijah didn’t call for acknowledgment—he called for obedience.

c) Decisions determine destiny

Israel’s future hinged on their response that day.

d) Delay in choosing God is disobedience by default

To ignore God’s call is to dishonour His Lordship.

Biblical Example: Joshua challenged Israel, saying, “Choose ye this day whom ye will serve” (Joshua 24:15).

3. STANDING FOR GOD REQUIRES BOLDNESS IN THE FACE OF OPPOSITION

Elijah stood alone against 450 prophets of Baal and a silent crowd.

a) One with God is a majority

Elijah wasn’t intimidated by their numbers—he was confident in God's power.

b) Boldness is the mark of true conviction

Those who are on the Lord’s side must be prepared to stand even if they stand alone.

c) The fear of men often keeps many from standing for God

But God honours those who honour Him publicly (Matthew 10:32–33).

d) The altar of truth must be rebuilt in the presence of falsehood

Elijah didn’t back down—he called fire to fall in the open.

Biblical Example: The three Hebrew boys refused to bow to Nebuchadnezzar’s image and were preserved in the fire (Daniel 3:16–28).

4. GOD RESPONDS WITH POWER WHEN HIS PEOPLE TAKE A STAND

After Elijah rebuilt the altar and offered the sacrifice, God sent fire from heaven.

a) Heaven always honours uncompromised worship and bold faith

The fire was God’s affirmation of Elijah’s stand.

b) God is not silent when His name is honoured in truth

When we defend His name, He defends His glory.

c) Miracles follow bold declarations of truth

The fire shifted the nation’s heart back to God.

d) Taking a stand brings revival to others

Israel fell on their faces and said, “The Lord, He is the God!” (1 Kings 18:39).

Biblical Example: When Moses said, “Who is on the Lord’s side?” the sons of Levi responded and were chosen for priestly service (Exodus 32:26–29).

5. TODAY’S DECISION DETERMINES TOMORROW’S DESTINY

God still calls His people to choose—every day.

a) The Christian life is a daily choice to stand with God

Being on the Lord’s side is not a one-time event, but a lifestyle.

b) In times of spiritual decline, bold believers become beacons of light

Your stand for God can provoke repentance in others.

c) Your decision today can rewrite the story of a generation

Elijah’s stand led to national revival.

d) The altar you rebuild today can be the fire someone else needs tomorrow

Don't delay your decision—stand now, and stand strong.

Biblical Example: Esther risked her life to stand for God’s people, and God preserved a nation (Esther 4:14-16).

CONCLUSION:

Elijah’s question still rings out today—“Who is on the Lord’s side?” In a world where compromise is common and conviction is rare, God is still looking for men and women who will choose Him boldly, serve Him faithfully, and represent Him publicly. You cannot sit on the fence. You are either on the Lord’s side—or you’re not.