Topical Encyclopedia In the context of Christian theology, the concept of "decision" as it pertains to the saints involves the choices and determinations made by believers in their pursuit of holiness and obedience to God's will. The saints, often referred to as the "holy ones" or "set apart," are those who have been sanctified through faith in Jesus Christ and are called to live lives that reflect their divine calling.Biblical Foundation The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings on the importance of decision-making in the life of a believer. In the Old Testament, Joshua's exhortation to the Israelites underscores the necessity of making a decisive commitment to God: "But if it is unpleasing in your sight to serve the LORD, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve... But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" (Joshua 24:15). This call to decision is a recurring theme, emphasizing the need for a deliberate choice to follow God. In the New Testament, the call to decision is further exemplified in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Jesus Himself calls for decisive action in following Him: "If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me" (Matthew 16:24). This decision to follow Christ involves a commitment to self-denial and a willingness to endure hardship for the sake of the Gospel. Role of the Holy Spirit The role of the Holy Spirit is crucial in guiding the saints in their decision-making processes. The Spirit provides wisdom, discernment, and conviction, enabling believers to make choices that align with God's will. In the book of Acts, the early church is depicted as being led by the Holy Spirit in their decisions: "For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us not to burden you with anything beyond these essential requirements" (Acts 15:28). This illustrates the collaborative nature of decision-making between the believers and the Holy Spirit. Moral and Ethical Decisions Saints are called to make moral and ethical decisions that reflect their identity in Christ. The apostle Paul exhorts believers to live lives worthy of their calling: "Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received" (Ephesians 4:1). This involves making choices that are consistent with Christian virtues such as love, integrity, and righteousness. Eternal Perspective Decisions made by the saints are often informed by an eternal perspective. The apostle Paul encourages believers to focus on eternal realities rather than temporal concerns: "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal" (2 Corinthians 4:18). This perspective influences the decisions of the saints, prompting them to prioritize spiritual growth and eternal rewards over immediate gratification. Examples of Decision-Making Throughout Scripture, there are numerous examples of saints who made significant decisions that impacted their lives and the lives of others. Abraham's decision to obey God's call to leave his homeland (Genesis 12:1-4), Daniel's resolve not to defile himself with the king's food (Daniel 1:8), and Esther's courageous choice to approach the king on behalf of her people (Esther 4:16) are all instances of faithful decision-making. Conclusion The concept of decision-making is integral to the life of the saints, as it reflects their commitment to live according to God's will and purpose. Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the influence of Scripture, and the example of faithful believers, saints are equipped to make decisions that honor God and advance His kingdom. Nave's Topical Index Revelation 14:4These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb wherever he goes. These were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits to God and to the Lamb. Nave's Topical Index Library Book Five a Year of Decision. ... Prison Meditations Directed to the Heart of Suffering Saints and ... From the Supplement to the Summa --Question Lxxii of the Prayers ... Paul's Epistles; his Collection for the Poor Saints at Jerusalem ... On the Perfection of Patience. Letter Lxxviii. (AD 404. ) The Image of the Beast. On the Babylonish Captivity of the Church on the Babylonish ... Anti-Romanistic Attitude. A Cloud of Witnesses. Resources What does the Bible say about indecision / being indecisive? | GotQuestions.orgWho is really “playing God”'the doctor who euthanizes a dying patient, or the doctor who extends the life of a terminally ill patient? | GotQuestions.org What is revivalism? | GotQuestions.org Decision: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Decision: Exhibited in Being on the Lord's Side Decision: Exhibited in Blessedness of Decision: Exhibited in Following God Fully Decision: Exhibited in Keeping the Commandments of God Decision: Exhibited in Loving God Perfectly Decision: Exhibited in Seeking God With the Heart Decision: Exhibited in Serving God Decision: General Scriptures Concerning Decision: Necessary to the Service of God Decision: Opposed to a Divided Service Decision: Opposed to Double-Mindedness Decision: Opposed to Halting Between Two Opinions Decision: Opposed to not Setting the Heart Aright Decision: Opposed to Turning to the Right or Left Valley of Decision: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms |
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