Let’s Make A Deal
I suspect, upon reading the title, you thought of the T.V. game show of the same name. This show originated in the United States in 1963 & has since been produced in many countries throughout the world. The concept of the show is members of the audience are selected, offered something of value, and then are given a choice to keep it or exchange it for a different unknown item. The catch is that the audience member doesn’t know if the item being offered for exchange is of greater, equal or less value than that which they were given in the first place.
There are many “deals” made every day and in every walk of life. Major purchases, such as homes, cars, and the like, which usually must be financed, require a deal to be made. Before an agreement is reached, a contract is prepared to explicitly state the terms of the deal. This includes the duration of, and the conditions of the agreement made between each party. When the agreed upon terms have been met, the party of the first part gives the party of the second part that which was agreed upon and the contract has been completed.
The greatest agreement possible today is that which can exist between God and man. God wrote the “contract” before the world was created. After establishing a covenant with the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, (the O.T.). He sent His Spirit to direct the psalmist to pen: For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. (Psa. 119:89). God revealed His Will over time. When it was time, God concluded the Old Testament (covenant) with the death of His Son and established the New Testament Law. All mankind can now “make a deal” with God on His terms.
These terms are God’s New Testament Law. This portion of the Word of God contains a great deal of information. If we obey the gospel we agree to the terms. This includes the reward that awaits the faithful, as well as the penalty for not obeying or disobeying after having become a child of God. Some years ago, an unknown author wrote the following about the greatest volume ever written. This deserves reprinting and repeating.
“THIS BOOK CONTAINS---The mind of God, the state of man, the way of Salvation, doom of sinners, and happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions are immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveler’s map, the pilgrim’s staff, the pilot’s compass, the soldier’s sword, and the Christian’s character. Here, Paradise is restored, Heaven is opened up, and the gates of Hell disclosed. Christ is its grand subject, our good its design, and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently, prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure. It is given you in life, will be opened at the judgment, and be remembered for ever. It involves the highest responsibility, rewards the greatest labor, and condemns all who trifle with its holy contents.”
Author unknown
God has provided everyone with a soul. In His New Testament Word, God offers every person a deal. Each has the option as to what they will do with that soul. God has provided in His Word the only options available. After all, it is His gospel alone that can save a soul – (Rom. 1:16). Also, per 2Pet. 3:9, it is not God’s Will that any be lost. However, He won’t make your choice for you. He gave man ‘free-will’ – the power of choice. He has given mankind His Word whereby one can choose. And one must choose according to the time frame in which he lives, and per the Law of God which is in force during that time.
Joshua lived when the O.T. Law of God to the Jews was in force. In Josh. 24:15, Joshua reminded Israel of their choices. He offered them God’s deal, and told what he, himself had chosen. He said: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD. God offers you the deal of a lifetime. He, through His N.T. Word is basically saying, “Let’s Make A Deal”, and lays out the potential reward as well as the condemnation for all who don’t take the deal. Why not start today? Obey the gospel, remain faithful until death, and go to live with God as you enjoy the ultimate prize.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
