The concept of expediency, often understood as taking the most convenient or practical course of action, can be seen throughout the Bible. While expediency may offer immediate benefits or solutions, it often comes with significant spiritual and moral costs. The Bible provides numerous examples where the pursuit of expedient solutions leads to negative consequences, highlighting the importance of adhering to God's commandments and principles over human convenience.

Old Testament Examples

1. Esau's Birthright: One of the most illustrative examples of the cost of expediency is found in the account of Esau and Jacob. Esau, driven by immediate hunger, sells his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of stew. Genesis 25:29-34 recounts this transaction, emphasizing Esau's disregard for the long-term value of his birthright in favor of immediate gratification. This decision ultimately leads to a loss of blessing and inheritance, demonstrating the high cost of choosing expediency over spiritual priorities.

2. Saul's Impatience: King Saul's decision to offer a burnt offering in Samuel's absence is another example. In 1 Samuel 13:8-14 , Saul, facing pressure from his troops and the Philistine threat, chooses to act expediently rather than wait for the prophet Samuel. This act of disobedience results in God's rejection of Saul's kingship, illustrating the severe consequences of prioritizing expediency over obedience to God's commands.

3. The Golden Calf: In Exodus 32, the Israelites, impatient for Moses' return from Mount Sinai, persuade Aaron to create a golden calf to worship. This act of expediency, driven by a desire for immediate comfort and assurance, leads to God's anger and severe punishment. The incident underscores the dangers of forsaking divine instruction for temporary solutions.

New Testament Examples

1. Peter's Denial: In the New Testament, Peter's denial of Jesus serves as a poignant example of expediency's cost. Faced with the threat of association with Jesus during His trial, Peter denies knowing Him three times (Matthew 26:69-75). Although this act of expediency spares Peter from immediate danger, it results in deep personal remorse and a temporary rupture in his relationship with Christ.

2. Judas Iscariot: Judas's betrayal of Jesus for thirty pieces of silver is perhaps the most tragic example of expediency in the New Testament. In Matthew 26:14-16 , Judas chooses monetary gain over loyalty to Jesus, leading to his ultimate despair and demise. This decision highlights the profound spiritual cost of prioritizing personal gain over faithfulness to God.

3. Ananias and Sapphira: In Acts 5:1-11 , Ananias and Sapphira seek to gain favor and recognition within the early church by deceitfully withholding part of the proceeds from a land sale while claiming to donate the entire amount. Their expedient choice to lie results in their sudden deaths, serving as a stark warning about the dangers of compromising integrity for personal advantage.

Theological Implications

The Bible consistently warns against the pursuit of expediency at the expense of righteousness and obedience to God. The examples provided illustrate that while expedient choices may offer short-term benefits, they often lead to long-term spiritual and moral consequences. The scriptures encourage believers to prioritize faithfulness, integrity, and trust in God's timing and provision over the allure of immediate solutions. As Proverbs 14:12 states, "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death." This verse encapsulates the biblical perspective on the cost of expediency, urging believers to seek God's wisdom and guidance in all decisions.