Romans - Part 4: SPIRITSample

Called!

In a generic sense, what does it mean to be ”called?” A person may feel called to a certain profession, to serve our country in the military, or to be a mom. In each case, there is a sense that from somewhere or someone outside, a person is drawn to this calling. Maybe they sense a higher power wants them to pursue this calling. It results in a sense of purpose and hopefully, effectiveness. In our study today, Romans 8:30 declares that in Christ we are called. This verse is referred to as the “Unbreakable Chain of Salvation” because God does all this. Christians are predestined, then called, then justified, and ultimately, glorified. But what does it mean that we are called?

The meaning in scripture is not too dissimilar from the generic sense. Our calling is outside ourselves, namely from God, and He causes us to want to respond to this calling. He will give me the power and desire to be effective in that calling.

An important point is that our calling, for those who are in Christ, is what is theologically described as our “effectual calling.” In other words, the calling is effective, resulting in the purpose of the calling. Jesus tells a parable in Matthew 22 that helps us understand effectual calling. The parable is about a banquet a king throws, but all the invited guests refuse to come. Then, the king sends his servants to invite others, who do come. One man is not dressed properly and is ejected from the banquet because he was not dressed properly, proving he was not supposed to be there. Then, Jesus says this peculiar thing that helps us understand effectual calling…

“For many are called, but few are chosen.” Mathew 22:14”

In this verse, the NIV translates “called” as “invited.” The calling intends to get people to the banquet but proves ineffective. Jesus’ word “chosen” conveys effectual calling. Not only is a person called or invited, but that calling is effective. The person called becomes Jesus' wedding guest and will be at His wedding feast in heaven, in glory! (Glorified, but that is for another devotional.)

This begs the question, “How do I know if I’m called?” There are a few quick measures of effectual calling.

1) You responded to Jesus’ call! You said, “Yes.” to Him and are following Him. Like Peter, James, and John, you put away your own way of life to follow Him (Mark 1:16-20).

2) You are seeking to be effective in that calling. You walk with Jesus to be like Jesus, just as you are destined to be (Romans 8:29). You are working out your salvation (Philippians 2:12-13).

3) You know in your heart, by the Spirit, that you are His Child (Romans 8:16).

What are you to do, then? Rejoice that you are called to be His; live for Him every day; and seek to share this good news with those around you!

-Doug Drainville