Introduction

The concept of choice is a fundamental theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the significance of human free will and the moral responsibility that accompanies it. From the earliest narratives in Genesis to the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, the Bible underscores the importance of making choices that align with God's will. This entry explores the biblical perspective on choice, highlighting key passages and their implications for believers.

Old Testament Foundations

The theme of choice is introduced in the Garden of Eden, where Adam and Eve are presented with the choice to obey or disobey God's command regarding the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 2:16-17). Their decision to eat the forbidden fruit (Genesis 3:6) illustrates the profound consequences of human choices, leading to the fall and the introduction of sin into the world.

In Deuteronomy, Moses presents the Israelites with a clear choice between life and death, blessing and curse, urging them to choose life by loving and obeying God (Deuteronomy 30:19-20): "I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you today that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. So choose life, so that you and your descendants may live, and that you may love the LORD your God, obey Him, and hold fast to Him."

Joshua echoes this call to decision in his farewell address, challenging the Israelites to choose whom they will serve, whether the gods of their ancestors or the LORD (Joshua 24:15): "But if it is unpleasing in your sight to serve the LORD, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living. As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."

Wisdom Literature

The wisdom literature of the Old Testament, particularly the book of Proverbs, frequently addresses the importance of making wise choices. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." This passage emphasizes the necessity of choosing to trust in God's wisdom rather than relying solely on human understanding.

Prophetic Writings

The prophets often called the people of Israel to repentance, urging them to choose to return to God and forsake their sinful ways. In Isaiah 1:18-20 , the LORD invites His people to reason together, offering forgiveness and restoration if they choose obedience: "Come now, let us reason together, says the LORD: Though your sins are like scarlet, they will be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they will become like wool. If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the best of the land. But if you resist and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword. For the mouth of the LORD has spoken."

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, Jesus frequently emphasizes the importance of choice in His teachings. In the Sermon on the Mount, He presents the choice between two paths: the narrow gate that leads to life and the wide gate that leads to destruction (Matthew 7:13-14): "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the way that leads to life, and only a few find it."

Jesus also highlights the necessity of choosing to follow Him, as seen in His call to discipleship. In Luke 9:23 , He states, "If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me." This call to self-denial and commitment underscores the weight of the choice to follow Christ.

Apostolic Writings

The apostles continue to stress the importance of choice in the life of a believer. Paul, in his letter to the Romans, speaks of the choice between living according to the flesh or the Spirit (Romans 8:5-6): "Those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. The mind of the flesh is death, but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace."

In Galatians 5:16-17 , Paul further encourages believers to choose to walk by the Spirit: "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh craves what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are opposed to each other, so that you do not do what you want."

Conclusion

The Bible consistently presents choice as a critical aspect of human existence, with eternal implications. Believers are called to make decisions that reflect their commitment to God, recognizing the profound impact of their choices on their spiritual journey and relationship with the Creator.