Choice: A Reality Check

Joshua 24:14-15

 

 

Introduction:

1.                  The best known saying of Joshua is in keeping with the spirit of the Scriptures.

 

2.                  The same statement has relevance to the social controversies of our time.

 

Discussion:

 

1.                  An odd stance: we choose both sides!

 

a.                   “The choice is mine.”

 

b.                  “I had no choice.”

 

2.                  Ability to choose involves more than the choice.

 

a.                   Awareness recognizes the option.

 

b.                  Imagination envisions the possibility.

 

c.                   Affection sets the priority.

 

d.                  Will makes the decision.

 

e.                   Conscience evaluates the propriety.

 

3.                  Reality: what can and cannot be chosen.

 

a.                   A person may choose to serve the LORD or some other god, but he cannot choose to serve no one.

 

b.                  A person may choose whether to serve the LORD, but he cannot choose what he is like or how he will be served.

 

c.                   A person may choose if he will serve the LORD, but he cannot choose to serve him half the way or part of the time.

 

d.                  A person may choose not to serve the LORD, but he cannot choose what the consequences in his life will be.

 

 

Conclusion:

 

1.                  Joshua could make a commitment and have an influence, but he could not choose for others.

 

2.                  What every person must choose is whose servant he is.