When Christians face hard decisions, it’s right for us to step back and ask “what would God have me to do in this situation?” In Choose Better, T. David Gordon has compiled into one volume five Biblical models that have emerged over the centuries for answering that question.
The book is relatively short (123 pages) and has a very simple structure. Chapter 1 introduces the five models. Chapters 2–6 each cover one of the models. The book closes with a brief conclusion. Click the link below to read my full review, but here’s a quick overview of the five models.
The first model (chapter 2) is the Imitation Model. When facing a decision, I should ask which option most allows me to emulate God or to cultivate human traits that reflect His image.
The second model (chapter 3) is the Law Model. When facing a decision, I should ask of each option whether God, in the Bible, has commanded or prohibited that option.
The third model (chapter 4) is the Wisdom Model. This is perhaps the most nuanced of the models, requiring us to carefully consider the consequences of the decision being made. Does the Bible provide general guidance on this topic? Does how God has made the world align more with one option over others? Can wise human counselors help us with the decision? Can we learn from the past (from history) what would be a better decision? In short, we should apply the sources of Godly wisdom that the Lord has provided in making the decision.
One of the key takeaways from the Wisdom Model is that often a given option won’t be the best one for everyone. While all of us Christians should be seeking to become more Christlike and increasingly obedient to the same revealed commandments, our differences in gifting, personality, and situation will often result in wisdom pointing us to decisions uniquely suited to each of us.
The fourth model (chapter 5) is the Communion Model. When facing a decision, I should ask of each option whether it enhances or inhibits my communion with God and His people. Will it lead me to spend more or less time in His Word, meditating on His Word, and in prayer? Will it allow me to be more or less actively involved with my church family?
The fifth model (chapter 6) is the Warfare Model. The Bible describes very real (but often invisible) battles between the forces of good and the forces of evil. When facing a decision, I should ask of each option whether it is likely to serve the forces of good or those of evil. I can think of the battle between the flesh and the spirit in my own life, Satan’s attempts to inflict damage in my family/business/church, and broader cultural spiritual battles.