What Does It Mean To Be Called By God?
Understanding the Call of God: A Bible Study
Few themes in Scripture are as transformative and personal as being "called by God." The concept of God's calling weaves throughout the Bible, from the calling of Abraham, Moses, and the prophets in the Old Testament, to the call of the disciples and the church in the New. But what does it mean for us today to be called by God? Let’s dive into the biblical meaning, purpose, and personal implications of God's call.
1. The Nature of God’s Call
In Scripture, God’s call is both universal and personal. The universal call is an invitation to salvation through Jesus Christ for all people, while the personal call relates to specific roles, ministries, or purposes God has for each believer.
For whom he foreknew, he also foreordained to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren: and whom he foreordained, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. - Romans 8:29-30 ASV
Here, the call of God is linked with salvation, justification, and ultimate glorification. God’s call is not random or accidental; it is rooted in His redemptive plan for mankind.
2. The Universal Call to Salvation
The first and foundational aspect of being called by God is the call to salvation. God calls sinners to repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. This is the message echoed throughout the New Testament:
who would have all men to be saved, and come to the knowledge of the truth. - 1 Timothy 2:4 ASV
And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to the whole creation. - Mark 16:15 ASV
God’s desire is for all people to hear and respond to the Gospel. Yet, the response to this call is a matter of faith:
For by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God. - Ephesians 2:8 ASV
3. The Personal Call: Purpose and Service
Beyond the universal call, God also calls individuals for particular purposes. This can be seen in the lives of many biblical figures:
- Moses: Called to lead Israel out of Egypt (Exodus 3:10 ASV).
- Isaiah: Called to be a prophet (Isaiah 6:8 ASV).
- Paul: Called to be an apostle (Romans 1:1 ASV).
In the New Testament, every believer is called to holiness and service:
I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beseech you to walk worthily of the calling wherewith ye were called. - Ephesians 4:1 ASV
But ye are an elect race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, that ye may show forth the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light. - 1 Peter 2:9 ASV
This means that being called by God is not just for leaders, but for every believer. Our calling involves living as God’s people, reflecting Christ, and serving others in love (Galatians 5:13 ASV).
4. Responding to God’s Call
The Bible consistently shows that a right response to God’s call is one of faith, obedience, and surrender. Consider the example of Isaiah:
And I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then I said, Here am I; send me. - Isaiah 6:8 ASV
Similarly, Jesus’ call to His disciples was simple but radical: “Follow me” (Matthew 4:19 ASV). Responding to God’s call requires trust, often stepping out in faith without knowing all the details.
5. The Assurance and Security of God’s Call
God’s call is irrevocable and secure. Those whom He calls, He equips and sustains:
Faithful is he that calleth you, who will also do it. - 1 Thessalonians 5:24 ASV
This assurance is a source of encouragement for believers, knowing that God’s purposes will be accomplished in and through those He calls.
Conclusion: Living in the Light of God’s Call
To be called by God is to be invited into a relationship with Him through Jesus Christ, to live out His purposes, and to serve others for His glory. It is both a privilege and a responsibility, rooted in God’s grace and faithfulness.
As you reflect on God’s call in your own life, consider these questions: Have you responded to His call to salvation? Are you seeking His purpose for your daily life? God’s call is personal, purposeful, and powerful—may we all respond with faith and obedience.