The mind of Christ was in Old Testament believers who trusted that God had a plan of salvation. Leaders like Joshua reflected that hope. He ushered the people of Israel into the Promised Land. When they were ready to settle it, he gave them something to think about. He made no threats but reminded them they had decisions to make. First among them would be renewing their commitment to the God who got them there. He set the example and spoke for his family: “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15).

Christianity is not a decision-less religion. Here is an inconvenient reality. No one has to do anything they don’t want to do. Even Adam and Eve had the choice to obey God or give in to temptation. Why do people do the right thing? It seems to me they are following one of two protocols: the enforcement protocol or the education protocol. The enforcement protocol taps into fear—fear of punishment and unpleasant consequences. The education protocol taps into love—love for God or parents or neighbors. The enforcement protocol is swift and heavy-handed. The education protocol takes a while because good character develops over time and is an outcome of persistent teaching. There are examples in the Bible of God using both. But there is no doubt which one he prefers. “God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son” (John 3:16).