Divine Calling

Divine calling refers to the act of God summoning individuals to Himself, often for a specific purpose or mission. This concept is deeply rooted in Scripture, where God calls people to salvation, service, and holiness. The calling of God is both a personal and communal experience, as seen throughout the biblical narrative.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul frequently speaks of this calling. In Romans 8:28-30 , Paul writes, "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. For those God foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers. And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified." Here, calling is part of a divine sequence leading to glorification, emphasizing its importance in the believer's life.

The calling of God is not based on human merit but on His grace and purpose. In 2 Timothy 1:9 , Paul states, "He has saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works, but by His own purpose and by the grace He granted us in Christ Jesus before time began." This underscores the idea that divine calling is rooted in God's eternal plan and grace.

Election

Election is the doctrine that God chooses certain individuals or groups for a specific purpose or destiny, particularly concerning salvation. This concept is closely related to divine calling and is a recurring theme in both the Old and New Testaments.

In the Old Testament, Israel is often described as God's chosen people. Deuteronomy 7:6 declares, "For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for His prized possession, above all peoples on the face of the earth." This election of Israel was not due to their own righteousness but because of God's love and faithfulness to His covenant.

In the New Testament, the doctrine of election is further developed. Ephesians 1:4-5 states, "For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence. In love He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will." This passage highlights the eternal nature of election and its purpose in conforming believers to holiness and adoption as God's children.

The Apostle Peter also addresses the concept of election in 1 Peter 2:9 , where he writes, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." Here, election is linked to the identity and mission of believers, emphasizing their role in proclaiming God's excellencies.

Interplay of Calling and Election

The interplay between divine calling and election is evident throughout Scripture. Both concepts underscore God's sovereignty and grace in the salvation and sanctification of believers. In 2 Peter 1:10 , Peter exhorts believers, "Therefore, brothers, strive to make your calling and election sure. For if you practice these things, you will never stumble." This verse suggests that while calling and election are divine acts, believers are encouraged to live in a manner that reflects and confirms these truths.

The doctrines of divine calling and election serve to remind believers of God's initiative in their salvation and the assurance of His promises. They are called to respond in faith and obedience, living out their identity as God's chosen people.