Jump to: Topical • ISBE • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Origin The term "vocation" is derived from the Latin word "vocatio," meaning "a calling." In a biblical context, vocation refers to the divine calling or purpose that God has for an individual's life. This concept is deeply rooted in the understanding that God has a specific plan and purpose for each person, which is to be discovered and lived out in accordance with His will. Biblical Foundations The idea of vocation is woven throughout Scripture, emphasizing that every believer has a role to play in God's kingdom. In the Old Testament, the calling of individuals like Abraham, Moses, and the prophets illustrates the personal and communal aspects of vocation. For instance, God called Abraham to be the father of many nations (Genesis 12:1-3), and Moses was called to lead the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 3:10). In the New Testament, the concept of vocation is further developed. The Apostle Paul frequently speaks of the calling of believers. In Ephesians 4:1, he urges, "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received." This calling is not limited to specific roles within the church but encompasses all aspects of life, encouraging believers to live out their faith in every context. Vocation and the Church The New Testament church is described as a body with many members, each having different gifts and functions. In 1 Corinthians 12:4-7, Paul writes, "There are different gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different ministries, but the same Lord. There are different ways of working, but the same God works all things in all people. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good." This passage highlights the diversity of vocations within the church, where each believer's unique calling contributes to the edification of the body of Christ. Vocation in Daily Life Vocation is not confined to religious or ministerial work but extends to all areas of life, including family, work, and community. Colossians 3:23-24 instructs, "Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." This passage underscores the principle that all work, when done for the glory of God, is a form of worship and service. The Role of Vocation in Personal Identity Understanding one's vocation is integral to personal identity and fulfillment. Believers are encouraged to seek God's guidance in discerning their calling, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." This reliance on God ensures that one's vocation aligns with His purposes and leads to a life of meaning and impact. Challenges and Discernment Discerning one's vocation can be challenging, requiring prayer, reflection, and often the counsel of others. James 1:5 offers encouragement: "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." This promise assures believers that God is willing to provide the wisdom needed to understand and pursue their calling. Conclusion While the concept of vocation is multifaceted, it ultimately centers on the belief that God has a unique purpose for each individual. By living out this calling, believers participate in God's redemptive work in the world, bringing glory to Him and serving others in love. Topical Bible Verses 2 Timothy 3:16All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: Topicalbible.org Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A call; a summons; a citation; especially, a designation or appointment to a particular state, business, or profession.2. (n.) Destined or appropriate employment; calling; occupation; trade; business; profession. 3. (n.) A calling by the will of God. 4. (n.) The bestowment of God's distinguishing grace upon a person or nation, by which that person or nation is put in the way of salvation; as, the vocation of the Jews under the old dispensation, and of the Gentiles under the gospel. 5. (n.) A call to special religious work, as to the ministry. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia VOCATIONvo-ka'-shun. Strong's Hebrew 4639. maaseh -- a deed, work... eventful (1), goods (2), just* (1), labors (2), made (2), occupation (2), practices (2), sculptured* (1), task (2), things (5), verses (1), vocation (1), what ... /hebrew/4639.htm - 6k Library On the Vocation of Sinners to Communion with Christ, and to a ... Vocation. On the Vocation of Sinful Men to Christ, and to a Participation of ... On the Vocation of Men to Salvation Vocation of Therese Vocation Vocation of Therese On the Ecclesiastical Ministrations of the New Testament and on ... Of a Scruple Concerning a Soul's Vocation to a Religious Life. ... On the Repentance by which Men Answer to the Divine Vocation Thesaurus Vocation (2 Occurrences)... The bestowment of God's distinguishing grace upon a person or nation, by which that person or nation is put in the way of salvation; as, the vocation of the ... /v/vocation.htm - 7k Calling (145 Occurrences) Preaching (116 Occurrences) Call Sermon (1 Occurrence) Preacher (27 Occurrences) Vivifying (1 Occurrence) Occupation (9 Occurrences) Wherewith (182 Occurrences) Following (546 Occurrences) Resources What is vocational ministry? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about workaholism? | GotQuestions.org Should a Christian be a monk? | GotQuestions.org Vocation: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Vocation (2 Occurrences)Ephesians 4:1 Judges 13:12 Subtopics Related Terms |
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