The Altar Call

Turning From Death by Gerald Van Horn

Ezekiel 33:11 “Turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, oh house of Israel?”

Our text is addressed to the house of Israel but I would like to take the liberty and apply it everyone. The most difficult thing to do sometime is to turn. Have you ever walked against the traffic? Have you ever driven down a street the wrong way? It is a dangerous thing and not to be trifled with. Such an experience can shake a person to the very core of his or her being. When I first read this text it shook me.

I am presented with a challenge. My greatest fear is that no one will listen. I also feel that my efforts will be wasted. After all who cares?

While I feel powerless I am reminded that the Holy Spirit is directing the traffic. His admonition is “Turn.” It is with a begging plea. Please “turn.”

1. The Holy Spirit says, “turn.”

If we do not turn the alternative is terrible. You might say, “I am not ready!”

If you cannot trust Him now then when will you trust Him. No one knows what tomorrow may hold. Some say, “I’m incapable of turning!” I beg to differ with you. God has given you the ability to turn.

2. Eternity says, “Turn.”

Much is at stake here. If you do not turn the future is very bleak to say the least. Eternity is a reality. The Bible plainly says, “Many shall go into everlasting punishment.” Do not mess with the opportunity. There is not a second chance on the other side of the grave. There’s a heaven to gain and a hell to shun. Turn to the loving arms of a loving Saviour,

Do not delay.

3. All of Heaven is Saying,"Turn."

Hebrews 12:1 "Wherefore, seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witness, let us lay aside every weight, and sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race set before us."

All of the witnesses are listed in chapter 11 of Hebrews. They are cheering you on. Turn and look to Jesus the author and finisher of our faith. (Hebrews 12:2)

4. The Bible Says "Turn."

Our text says why you should turn. It says "you will die." Such a death means seperation from God forever. Why hold to a sentence of death when you can have a sentence of life. People on death row in prison would readily choose life. Do not terry. You can find life in Jesus. Accept Him now and live forever.