Several times we find the above question asked in the New Testament. The following give a consecutive chain of thought:—
1. A Dismissed Steward. "What shall I do? for my lord taketh away from me the stewardship" (Luk 16:3). The unjust steward is commended for his thoughtfulness, and not for his sinfulness, by Christ (see Luk 16:9, R.V.).
2. A Directed Son. "What shall I do? I will send My Beloved Son" (Luk 20:13). It seems as if God were uncertain what to do in the face of man's sin. We know now what He did (Jhn 3:16-18).
3. A Determined Suppliant. "There came one running, and kneeled to Him, and asked Him, 'Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?'" (Mar 10:17). He was determined in his pleading, but not in practising Christ's direction.
4. A Distressed Soul. "What must I do to be saved?" (Act 16:30). Done is the work that saves. To believe in Him who has done the work, saves (Jhn 6:29).
5. A Puzzled Judge. "What shall I do then with Jesus?" (Mat 27:22). Pilate was in a quandary, and could not get out of it. He had not the moral courage to be true to his convictions.
6. A Submissive Sinner. "What shall I do, Lord?" (Act 22:10). Saul was turned to Christ by His manifestation. He is now as much for Him as He was against Him before.
7. A Foolish Man. "What shall I do?" "This will I do." (Luk 12:17-18). A fool always answers his own question by a self-willed action. He never waits for God's direction.