Topical Encyclopedia The Event of Decision is a term often used to describe pivotal moments in biblical history where individuals or groups are faced with a choice that has significant spiritual and historical consequences. These events are characterized by a clear call to choose between obedience to God and rebellion, often resulting in blessings or judgment based on the decision made. The concept underscores the biblical theme of free will and the moral responsibility of humanity to choose God's ways.1. The Garden of Eden (Genesis 3): The first and most foundational Event of Decision occurs in the Garden of Eden. Adam and Eve are presented with a choice to obey God's command not to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Their decision to disobey leads to the Fall, introducing sin and death into the world. This event highlights the consequences of choosing against God's will and sets the stage for the need for redemption. 2. Mount Sinai (Exodus 19-24): At Mount Sinai, the Israelites are given the Law through Moses. This moment is a corporate Event of Decision where the people of Israel are called to enter into a covenant with God. In Exodus 24:7, the people respond, "All that the LORD has spoken we will do, and we will be obedient." This decision establishes Israel as God's chosen people, bound by the covenant to follow His commandments. 3. Joshua's Challenge (Joshua 24:14-15): As Joshua nears the end of his life, he presents the Israelites with a choice: "But if it is unpleasing in your sight to serve the LORD, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve... But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" (Joshua 24:15). This call to decision emphasizes the personal and communal responsibility to serve God faithfully amidst surrounding pagan influences. 4. Elijah on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18:20-40): The prophet Elijah confronts the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, challenging the Israelites to choose between the LORD and Baal. In 1 Kings 18:21, Elijah asks, "How long will you waver between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow Him; but if Baal is God, follow him." This dramatic event culminates in God's demonstration of power, leading the people to acknowledge the LORD as the true God. 5. The Call to Repentance (Acts 2:37-41): On the day of Pentecost, Peter addresses the crowd, calling them to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins. This moment represents an Event of Decision for the early church, as about three thousand souls accept the message and are added to the believers (Acts 2:41). This decision marks the beginning of the church's expansion and the spread of the Gospel. 6. The Rich Young Ruler (Matthew 19:16-22): In the New Testament, Jesus presents the rich young ruler with a personal Event of Decision. The young man asks what he must do to inherit eternal life, and Jesus tells him to sell his possessions and follow Him. The ruler's decision to walk away sorrowful, unable to part with his wealth, illustrates the challenge of prioritizing God's kingdom over earthly attachments. These Events of Decision throughout Scripture serve as reminders of the importance of choosing to follow God wholeheartedly. They illustrate the ongoing spiritual battle between obedience and rebellion, faith and doubt, and the eternal significance of our choices. |