Topical Encyclopedia The concept of decision-making is pivotal in the lives of the disciples of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the New Testament. The disciples were ordinary men called to make extraordinary decisions that would not only transform their own lives but also impact the course of history. Their decisions, often made in moments of profound spiritual significance, provide a model for Christian decision-making today.Calling of the Disciples The initial decision faced by the disciples was the call to follow Jesus. This decision required immediate action and a willingness to leave behind their previous lives. In Matthew 4:18-20 , we read about the calling of Peter and Andrew: "As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. 'Come, follow Me,' Jesus said, 'and I will make you fishers of men.' And at once they left their nets and followed Him." This decision to follow Jesus was marked by a radical departure from their livelihoods and an embrace of a new mission. Commitment to Discipleship The decision to follow Jesus was not a one-time event but required ongoing commitment. In Luke 9:23 , Jesus emphasizes the cost of discipleship: "Then Jesus said to all of them, 'If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.'" The disciples had to decide daily to prioritize their relationship with Jesus over personal desires and societal expectations. Moments of Doubt and Faith The disciples also faced decisions in moments of doubt and fear. In Matthew 14:28-31 , Peter's decision to walk on water towards Jesus is a profound act of faith, yet it is quickly followed by doubt: "Lord, if it is You, Peter replied, command me to come to You on the water. 'Come,' said Jesus. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water, and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the strength of the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink, cried out, 'Lord, save me!' Immediately Jesus reached out His hand and took hold of Peter. 'You of little faith,' He said, 'why did you doubt?'" This incident highlights the disciples' struggle between faith and doubt, a common human experience. Decisions in Ministry The disciples also made decisions regarding their ministry and the spread of the Gospel. In Acts 6:2-4 , the apostles decide to appoint deacons to address the needs of the early church: "So the Twelve summoned all the disciples and said, 'It is unacceptable for us to neglect the word of God in order to wait on tables. Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will devote ourselves to prayer and the ministry of the word.'" This decision reflects the importance of delegation and focus on spiritual priorities in ministry. The Great Commission One of the most significant decisions the disciples faced was their response to the Great Commission. In Matthew 28:19-20 , Jesus commands them: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." The disciples' decision to obey this command led to the spread of Christianity throughout the world. Personal Transformation The decisions made by the disciples also led to personal transformation. For instance, Peter, who denied Jesus three times, later became a bold proclaimer of the Gospel, as seen in Acts 2:14 : "Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, lifted up his voice, and addressed the crowd." This transformation underscores the power of divine grace and the impact of faithful decision-making. The decisions of the disciples, as recorded in the New Testament, serve as a testament to the transformative power of following Christ. Their choices, marked by faith, commitment, and obedience, continue to inspire believers to make decisions that align with God's will and purpose. Nave's Topical Index Luke 18:28Then Peter said, See, we have left all, and followed you. Nave's Topical Index John 6:68,69 Acts 2:42 Acts 9:29 Acts 26:6 Romans 1:16 Philippians 1:20,21 Colossians 2:5 2 Timothy 4:7,8 Library His Decision on the Question of Divorce. --Celibacy. (Matt. , xix, The First Disciples: iii. Philip The Great Confession - the Great Commission - the Great ... The Death of Lazarus; Christ's Conversation with the Disciples in ... Human Characters Determined Only by Divine Decision. Simon's Disciples Adopt the Mysteries; Simon Meets St. Peter at ... By the Sea of Galilee - the Final Call of the First Disciples, and ... New Teaching in Parables' - the Parables to the People by the Lake ... The Mission of Paul and Silas to Macedonia. The Lord's Day --The Worship of the Apostolic Church --Its ... 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 |
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