Isreal, representing a nation of people were supposed to obey God. But how many of them were actually saved, or just on the run from mean Pharaoh?
Paul, and individual, called by God, in no uncertain terms, no decisions, ifs, maybes or buts. Just obey!
That is what happened when God saved me. One minute, I was unsaved, sitting in the front seat of a Blazer at night, talking to my future husband about God. God spoke, told me he was my Saviour and the Saviour of the world, and I must follow him. No decision, just an overwhelming joy that God had called me and made me his own.
Decisional regeneration and “free” will are myths from the pit of hell. By all means preach the gospel! It is the means God uses to save people. But never confuse the work the Holy Spirit must do in our hearts, with some petty decision to follow Christ, in your own strength.
Sad, people still believe God begs people to come to him, then has to stand back and wait until they do or do not make a decision to follow him. NO! God is sovereign in justification! He alone has the power to save!