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In fact, these conditions ushered in one of the great revivals recorded in Scripture. It wasa time of renewal triggered by con frontation, the first being an encounter between the prophet and Ahab.When accused by the evil king of being a troubler of Israel, Elijah boldly responds, “I have not troubled Israel, but you and your father’s house have, because you have forsaken the commandments of the Lord and have followed the Baals” (1 Kings 18:18). Elijah didn’t stop there, but instead proceeded to take his argument before the people. “How long will you hesitate between two opinions?” he asked. “If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal, follow him” (1 Kings 18:21). This is a question that humankind has been called on to answer throughout history, some at the expense of their lives. Polycarp Bishop of Smyrna (69-155 AD), believed to be a disciple of the apostle John, was sentenced to burn to death by the Roman proconsul when he refused to renounce Christianity and burn incense to the Roman emperor. He was taken down and stabbed to death when flames failed to consume his body. Such atrocities still occur in parts of the world where pro fessing Christians are in grave danger. It may seem unlikely in our society of cultural Chrisitanity, yet society is heading more and more that way.As the end times approach, the “squishy middle” of one foot in the kingdom and one foot in the world will disappear. Now is time to overcome the apathy, set aside the risks, and declare for the Lord. As Joshua said, “If it is disagreeable in your sight to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves today whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served which were beyond the River, or the gods of Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15, emphasis added). Elijah not only confronted Ahab and the people, he arranged for a demonstration as well: a showdown between the good guys

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