Where in the Bible does it ask us to choose between good and evil?
In the New Testament, we see a similar call to choose between good and evil in Matthew 6:24. Jesus says, "No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money."
As Christians, we are often faced with the choice between good and evil in our daily lives. The Bible teaches us that we should always strive to choose what is good and right in the eyes of God, even when it may be difficult or unpopular. But where in the Bible does it specifically ask us to make this choice between good and evil?
One of the most well-known passages in the Bible that addresses the choice between good and evil is found in Deuteronomy 30:19-20. In this passage, God speaks to the Israelites through Moses and says, "I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live, loving the Lord your God, obeying his voice and holding fast to him, for he is your life and length of days."
This passage emphasizes the importance of choosing life and blessing by obeying God's commandments and following His ways. God gives us the freedom to choose between good and evil, but He encourages us to choose life and blessings by walking in obedience to Him.
In the New Testament, we see a similar call to choose between good and evil in Matthew 6:24. Jesus says, "No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money." This verse reminds us that we must make a conscious decision to serve God and follow His ways, rather than being tempted by the things of this world.
Another important passage that speaks to the choice between good and evil is found in Joshua 24:15. Joshua says to the Israelites, "But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord." This verse highlights the importance of making a deliberate choice to serve God and reject evil, even in the face of temptation.
Ultimately, the Bible is filled with countless verses and stories that call us to choose between good and evil. From the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden to Jesus' temptation in the wilderness, we see examples of the constant struggle between righteousness and sin. As Christians, we are called to follow God's commandments, resist temptation, and choose what is good and pleasing in His sight.