Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, the concept of decision-making is often portrayed as a pivotal moment where individuals or groups choose to align themselves with God's will and purposes. This alignment is frequently described as being "on the Lord's side," a theme that resonates throughout Scripture as a call to faithfulness, obedience, and commitment to God's covenant.Old Testament Examples 1. Moses and the Israelites: One of the most striking examples of decision-making in the Old Testament is found in the account of Moses and the Israelites at Mount Sinai. After the incident of the golden calf, Moses stood at the entrance to the camp and declared, "Whoever is for the LORD, come to me" (Exodus 32:26). The sons of Levi responded to this call, demonstrating their decision to stand with the Lord against idolatry and disobedience. 2. Joshua's Challenge: Joshua, as he led the Israelites into the Promised Land, presented a clear choice to the people: "But if it is disagreeable in your sight to serve the LORD, then choose for yourselves today whom you will serve... But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" (Joshua 24:15). This declaration underscores the importance of a deliberate decision to serve God, setting a standard for the nation. 3. Elijah on Mount Carmel: The prophet Elijah confronted the Israelites with a decision during the contest on Mount Carmel. He challenged them, saying, "How long will you waver between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow Him; but if Baal is God, follow him" (1 Kings 18:21). This moment called the people to decisively choose allegiance to the true God over false idols. New Testament Examples 1. Jesus' Call to Discipleship: In the New Testament, Jesus frequently called individuals to make a decision to follow Him. He stated, "Whoever wants to be My disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow Me" (Matthew 16:24). This call to discipleship requires a conscious decision to prioritize Christ above all else. 2. The Apostles' Boldness: The early church provides numerous examples of decision-making in the face of persecution. Peter and John, when commanded not to speak in the name of Jesus, replied, "Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God's sight to listen to you rather than God" (Acts 4:19). Their decision to obey God rather than human authorities exemplifies unwavering commitment to the Lord's side. 3. Paul's Transformation: The Apostle Paul's conversion is a profound example of a life-altering decision. Once a persecutor of Christians, Paul encountered Christ on the road to Damascus and chose to become a devoted follower, stating, "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain" (Philippians 1:21). His decision to serve Christ wholeheartedly became the defining feature of his ministry. Theological Implications The decision to be on the Lord's side is not merely a one-time event but a continual commitment to live according to God's will. It involves a conscious choice to reject sin, embrace righteousness, and pursue a life that reflects God's character. This decision is often accompanied by trials and challenges, yet it is marked by the assurance of God's presence and the promise of eternal life. Throughout Scripture, the call to decision is a call to covenant faithfulness, urging believers to stand firm in their allegiance to God amidst a world of competing loyalties. The examples of Moses, Joshua, Elijah, and the early Christians serve as enduring reminders of the importance of choosing to be on the Lord's side, a choice that defines one's identity and destiny in the biblical narrative. Torrey's Topical Textbook Exodus 32:26Then Moses stood in the gate of the camp, and said, Who is on the LORD's side? let him come to me. And all the sons of Levi gathered themselves together to him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Colossians iii. 17 The External History of the Pelagian Controversy. Judas Iscariot John xix. 16-18 The Good Samaritan. The Prudent Steward. 1 Cor. x. 13 The Relation Between the Human Will and the Divine Agency. The Day of Atonement The Caroline Settlement Resources What is decisional regeneration / decision theology? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the valley of decision (Joel 3:14)? | GotQuestions.org What are the biblical principles for solid decision-making? | 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 |
    |