Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, the concept of choice is pivotal, particularly concerning the decisions made by sinners. The Bible presents human beings as moral agents endowed with the capacity to choose between obedience to God and rebellion against His commandments. This entry explores the nature and consequences of the sinner's choice as depicted in Scripture.The Origin of Sinful Choice The origin of sinful choice is traced back to the Garden of Eden, where Adam and Eve exercised their free will in disobedience to God's command. Genesis 3:6 states, "When the woman saw that the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eyes, and that it was desirable for obtaining wisdom, she took the fruit and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it." This act of defiance introduced sin into the world, illustrating the profound impact of choosing against God's will. The Nature of Sinful Choice Throughout Scripture, the sinner's choice is characterized by a preference for self-will over divine will. Proverbs 14:12 warns, "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death." This verse highlights the deceptive nature of sinful choices, which often appear appealing but lead to spiritual and sometimes physical destruction. Consequences of Sinful Choice The Bible consistently underscores the consequences of choosing sin. Romans 6:23 declares, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." This passage contrasts the outcome of sin—death—with the promise of life through Christ, emphasizing the gravity of choosing sin over righteousness. Examples of Sinful Choices Numerous biblical figures exemplify the sinner's choice. King Saul, for instance, repeatedly chose disobedience over adherence to God's commands, leading to his downfall. In 1 Samuel 15:23 , the prophet Samuel tells Saul, "For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance is like the wickedness of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has rejected you as king." Similarly, Judas Iscariot's decision to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16) serves as a poignant example of the devastating consequences of choosing sin. The Call to Righteous Choice Despite the prevalence of sinful choices, the Bible extends a call to repentance and righteous decision-making. Deuteronomy 30:19 presents a divine appeal: "I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you today that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, so that you and your descendants may live." This verse encapsulates the heart of God's desire for humanity—to choose life and blessing through obedience to Him. The Role of Christ in Transforming Choice The New Testament reveals that through Christ, sinners are empowered to make righteous choices. In John 8:36 , Jesus proclaims, "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." This freedom includes liberation from the bondage of sin, enabling believers to choose righteousness through the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Conclusion While the Bible acknowledges the reality of sinful choices, it also offers hope through the redemptive work of Christ. By choosing to follow Him, individuals can experience the abundant life promised in Scripture, overcoming the destructive path of sin. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 30:19,20I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both you and your seed may live: Nave's Topical Index Joshua 24:15,18 1 Kings 18:21 Library The Sinner's Natural Power and Moral Weakness. The Lost Sheep, the Lost Coin, and the Prodigal Son. God's Sovereignty and the Human Will Whether Evil is Properly the Motive of Mercy? Regeneration. Evidences of Regeneration. Mercy's Master Motive Index of First Lines. Moral Depravity. The Problem of Foreign Missions Resources Monergism vs. synergism-which view is correct? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did God allow Satan and the demons to sin? | GotQuestions.org What does “I set before you life and death” mean in Deuteronomy 30:19? | GotQuestions.org Choice: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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