Do We Have A Choice?

Do We Have A Choice?
I Thessalonians 1:4-10  |  Pastor Terry Wilcox

How Do You Balance the Sovereignty of God Versus Our Free Will?

1. God chose the Thessalonians.  I Thessalonians 1:4
   Election, predestined, foreknew, and whosoever will have sparked debates for centuries.
   a. Adoption is the gracious choice of parents.  Ephesians 1:5-6
   b. Being chosen provides assurance and security.  John 1:12-13
2. Transformation is evidence of the power of the Holy Spirit.  II Corinthians 5:17
   a. Their lifestyles were becoming counter-cultural.  
        Idol worship, sexual perversion, and persecution surrounded these new followers of Jesus.
   b. God provided role models and mentors.  I Thessalonians 1:5-6
        Do you have such? Are you such?
3. How do we respond to Jesus?  I Thessalonians 1:8-10
   Yes, the Thessalonian church was almost 2,000 years ago, but Jesus hasn’t changed.
   a. They were known for sharing their faith.
        Apologist or not, we all have a story.
   b. They left their idols to serve God.
        I’ve known two attorneys who made major changes because of Jesus.

Don’t stress over God’s choice, embrace Him and chose to live for His glory.

Personal Notes