What is the upward call of God?

Definition and Scriptural Basis

The phrase “the upward call of God” appears prominently in Philippians 3:14, which states: “I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus.” In many English translations, it is also rendered “upward call” or “high calling,” signifying both the divine origin and ultimate goal of this call. The term conveys God summoning believers to a life of holiness and transformation through Christ, culminating in eternal life. In the original Greek, the phrase ἄνω κλῆσις (anō klēsis) highlights something “above” or “heavenly,” emphasizing the reality that this call comes from, and leads to, God Himself.

Context in Philippians 3

Philippians is one of the epistles written by the apostle Paul, with manuscript evidence such as Papyrus 16 and Codex Vaticanus confirming its early distribution and consistent text. The broader context of Philippians 3 discusses Paul’s readiness to count all worldly gains as loss for the sake of knowing Christ (Philippians 3:8). This leads into his pressing forward, actively pursuing greater conformity to Christ, and ultimately longing for the resurrection of the dead (Philippians 3:11).

Within this context, the “upward call” is not merely an invitation to moral improvement, but a call anchored in Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection. The terminology implies a progressive journey: believers are to press on daily, looking ahead to the final completion of salvation when they are perfectly conformed to Christ.

Old Testament Foundations

Though the specific phrase appears in the New Testament, the concept of God calling His people upward—toward Himself—resonates through older Scripture as well. God’s call to Abraham (Genesis 12:1–3) was a summons to step away from an old life into a promise. Similarly, the prophets consistently exhorted Israel to return to Yahweh (e.g., Isaiah 55:6–7). These passages provide the foundation for the concept that God calls people to a higher life by turning from sin and seeking His presence in faith.

Theological Implications

1. Christ-Centered Focus

The upward call is experienced and fulfilled in Christ Jesus. Paul’s reference to “in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14) points to the believer’s spiritual union with the Messiah. This unbreakable bond is grounded in Christ’s atoning work and resurrection, a historical event supported by multiple lines of evidence (e.g., the empty tomb and ancient testimonies recorded by historians such as Josephus and Tacitus).

2. Resurrection Hope

The upward call intimately links with the believer’s future resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:49–52). The assurance of a bodily resurrection, demonstrated by the risen Christ and upheld by firsthand testimonies (1 Corinthians 15:3–8), provides tangible hope. This call looks beyond the current earthly life to the eternal kingdom prepared and promised by God.

3. Sanctification and Glorification

Responding to this upward call involves sanctification—growing in holiness through the power of the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, the path of sanctification leads to glorification, when believers will be made complete in Christ (Romans 8:30). This destiny is rooted in God’s eternal plan revealed throughout Scripture.

Practical Significance

1. Motivation for Holy Living

Recognizing the upward call orients daily decisions toward godliness (Colossians 3:1–2). The believer’s perspective shifts from temporary interests to eternal realities, encouraging endurance and perseverance.

2. Encouragement in Trials

Philippians itself was written while Paul faced imprisonment, and yet the epistle brims with joy. The upward call offers unwavering hope, reminding believers that current suffering cannot overshadow the ultimate glory awaiting them (Romans 8:18).

3. Relevance for Personal Growth

This calling spurs continual growth in knowledge of God and in practical obedience. The pursuit of Christ-likeness—daily pressing on—fosters humility, service, and love within a community of faith (Philippians 2:3–4).

Connection to the Salvation Narrative

From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture consistently presents the theme of God calling humanity into relationship with Him. The genealogical records in Genesis (e.g., Genesis 5) and Chronicles, as well as Luke’s genealogy of Jesus (Luke 3:23–38), reinforce a linear timeline and highlight God’s active involvement in history. Archaeological findings—such as ancient Near Eastern city excavations that align with biblical place names—support the historical framework of these texts.

Within this historical context, the upward call finds its fullest expression in the life, death, and resurrection of Christ. Numerous early manuscripts and papyri—cross-referenced by scholars—attest to the reliability of the New Testament accounts, providing confidence that Paul’s words about pressing toward God’s heavenly calling accurately represent early Christian teaching.

Philosophical and Behavioral Considerations

Many have testified to profound life transformations upon accepting the upward call. Studies in religious behavior and conversion experiences indicate that belief in a future hope can drastically alter moral outlook, emotional well-being, and resilience. Such real-world observations dovetail with the biblical teaching that the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live out their calling (Galatians 5:22–23).

The upward call also addresses fundamental questions of purpose: Scripture points to humanity’s creation by God (Genesis 1:26–27) and a designed destiny of eternal fellowship with Him. In this, it speaks to the human longing for transcendence, meaning, and moral grounding, all rooted in a personal Creator.

Unity with the Broader Biblical Narrative

This upward call integrates seamlessly with the broader message that God is the Creator of all things and that the universe bears His design. Natural evidence of fine-tuning, such as the precise constants that allow life on Earth, corresponds with the view that the world was intentionally crafted. In turn, these findings strengthen confidence in the biblical teaching that God purposefully created humanity and has called them to an eternal destiny with Him.

Addressing Questions of Historicity

Philippians, like other Pauline epistles, enjoys substantial manuscript evidence (including early fragments like Papyrus 46 dating to about the second century). Textual scholars analyzing the earliest Greek manuscripts find consistent readings for Paul’s words about the upward call, reinforcing that the teaching has been faithfully preserved. Combined with extra-biblical sources corroborating early Christian belief in Jesus’ resurrection, the essential foundation for this upward call remains historically credible.

Call to Response

The upward call, being a summons from God, naturally invites a response of faith and obedience. Receiving this call involves turning from sin (repentance) and trusting the risen Christ for salvation. Believers then embark on a life-long journey of spiritual growth, upheld by Scripture and illuminated by the Holy Spirit.

Furthermore, the upward call shapes one’s worldview, providing a clear purpose: to glorify God through every facet of life, to proclaim the hope found in Christ, and to remain steadfast with eyes fixed on the eternal prize. This transformative process not only enriches the individual but also radiates outward, drawing others toward the same upward call.

Conclusion

The “upward call of God” described in Philippians 3:14 encapsulates a vast scriptural theme: God invites humanity to turn from sin, trust in the resurrected Christ, and move forward toward ultimate fellowship with Him in eternity. It is both a present reality—motivating believers to live in holiness and hope—and a future promise, secured by the reliable testimony, consistent manuscripts, and historical evidence that proclaim Jesus’ victory over death. This high calling directs hearts heavenward, ultimately finding its fulfillment when believers stand complete before their Creator.