Choice 1 Youth T-Shirt

CHOICE

Part of our "Bold" collection, the "Choice" design encourages onlookers to reflect on their eternal destiny. Inspired by John's vision of the "Great White Throne" in Revelation 20, this design centers on the crucial question highlighted in verse 15: Will your name be written in the "Book of Life"? The design underscores the ultimate choice we all face: Everlasting Life or Eternal Death. The message is clear: omit God from your life, and you will be omitted from the Book of Life.

This passage reveals the power of one's choice. Being written in the Book of Life signifies a choice that aligns with God's will and leads to eternal life. This choice reflects one's true faith and obedience to God. However, we must be cautious to avoid merely maintaining the appearance of faith. A complementary passage to Revelation 20:15 can be found in Matthew 21:28-32, where Jesus addresses chief priests, scribes, and elders of the people with a parable highlighting the difference between verbal assent and actual obedience. The first son initially refuses but ultimately chooses to obey, while the second son agrees verbally but does not follow through with his actions.

By comparing the messages in these two passages, we can derive the following principles about the power of choice:

• True Obedience vs. Mere Appearance:
• The first son's choice to eventually work in the vineyard, despite his initial refusal, exemplifies genuine repentance and obedience. This aligns with the principle that actions reflecting true faith are what ultimately matter.
• The second son's empty promise illustrates the danger of superficial faith, where outward appearances do not match inner realities. This warns against hypocrisy and the false assurance of salvation without true repentance and obedience.
• Reflection of True Outcomes:
• Both passages emphasize that true faith is demonstrated through actions, not merely words. Being written in the Book of Life is not about outward religious appearance but about a genuine, obedient relationship with God.
• Jesus’ rebuke of the religious leaders in Matthew 21:31-32 underscores that those who appear righteous but do not genuinely repent and believe are at risk of missing out on the kingdom of God. Conversely, those who truly repent and obey, even if they initially seemed far from God, are welcomed into His kingdom.
• Repentance & Belief:
• The parable’s message complements the warning in Revelation. It is not enough to profess belief; one must also act in accordance with that belief. True repentance and belief will result in actions that align with God's will, thereby securing one's name in the Book of Life.
• Inclusivity of God’s Kingdom:
• The parable also highlights the inclusivity of God’s kingdom, showing that those who genuinely repent, regardless of their past, are accepted by God. This ties into the broader biblical theme that God’s grace is available to all who truly turn to Him.

The association between Revelation 20:15 and Matthew 21:28-32 illustrates the importance of genuine faith and obedience. It emphasizes that the true measure of one's relationship with God is not just in verbal professions or outward appearances but in the actions that stem from a heart aligned with God’s will. This teaching challenges believers to examine their faith and ensure that their choices reflect a true commitment to following God, thus securing their place in the Book of Life.

REVELATION 20:15

Soft Apparel

• 4.2 oz./yd² (US) 7 oz./L yd (CA), 100% airlume combed and ringspun cotton, 32 singles
• Retail fit
• Unisex sizing
• Side seams
• Tear away label

Durable Apparel

• 5.3 oz./yd² (US) 8.8 oz./L yd (CA), 100% cotton, 20 singles
• Midweight fabric
• Classic fit
• Non-topstitched, classic width, rib collar
• Taped neck and shoulders
• Double-needle sleeve and bottom hems
• CPSIA Tracking Label Compliant
• Tear away label