Called By God

 

The opening verses of Paul's letter to the Romans contain a wealth of theological truth about the calling of God. Three times in this brief passage, the apostle uses the word "called" (klétos) to describe his own apostolic calling as well as the calling of the believers in Rome (Romans 1:1, 6-7). This repetition underscores the importance of God's calling in the Christian life. But what does it mean to be "called by God," and can we expect to experience this today?

As we will see, God's calling is not merely a relic of the past or a privilege reserved for a select few. Instead, it is the consistent pattern throughout Scripture by which God initiates a relationship with His people and invites them into His redemptive purposes. In this exegesis, we will explore the profound truths contained in Romans 1:1-7, illuminated by associated passages in the Scriptures, to gain a deeper understanding of the nature and implications of God's calling.

Exegesis of Romans 1:1-7

Verse 1: "Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God..."

In the opening verse, Paul introduces himself as a "servant of Christ Jesus" (doulos Christou Iēsou). This phrase highlights his submission and devotion to the Lord Jesus Christ, whom he serves as a bondservant. However, Paul's service is not self-appointed but rather the result of a divine calling (klētos). He was "called to be an apostle" (klētos apostolos), indicating that his apostolic ministry was not of his choosing but a vocation bestowed upon him by God.

The phrase "set apart for the Gospel of God" (aphorismenos eis euangelion theou) further emphasizes the divine origin and purpose of Paul's calling. God separated or consecrated him for the specific task of proclaiming the good news of salvation in Christ.

Verse 2-4: "...which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy Scriptures, concerning his Son, who was descended from David according to the flesh and was declared to be the Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord..."

Paul grounds the gospel he preaches in the authoritative testimony of the Old Testament Scriptures, emphasizing its continuity with God's redemptive plan revealed through the prophets. The content of this gospel centers on the person and work of Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah and Son of God.

Paul highlights two aspects of Christ's identity: His human lineage as a descendant of David (ek spermatos Dauid kata sarka) and His divine Sonship, which was powerfully declared through His resurrection from the dead (horisthentos huiou theou en dunamei kata pneuma hagiōsunēs ex anastaseōs nekrōn). The resurrection is the definitive vindication of Christ's claims and the seal of God's acceptance of His atoning sacrifice.

Verse 5-6: "...through whom we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith for the sake of his name among all the nations, including you who are called to belong to Jesus Christ..."

Paul's apostolic calling is inextricably linked to the gospel he proclaims. Through Christ, he has received both grace and apostleship (elabomen charin kai apostolēn) with the specific purpose of promoting "the obedience of faith" (hupakoēn pisteōs) among all nations (en pasin tois ethnesin). This obedience is not mere intellectual assent but a wholehearted submission to the lordship of Christ, motivated by faith in the gospel.

Paul addresses the Roman believers as those "who are called to belong to Jesus Christ" (klētois Iēsou Christou). Their Christian identity is rooted in a divine calling (klētois) to belong to and follow Christ. This calling is not based on their merit or achievement but solely on God's gracious initiative.

Verse 7: "To all those in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ."

In his greeting, Paul affirms the Roman believers' status as those "loved by God" (agapētois theou) and "called to be saints" (klētois hagiois). The term "saints" (hagiois) refers not to a special class of super-Christians but to all who have been set apart and consecrated to God through their faith in Christ.

Paul's benediction, "Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ," encapsulates the blessings that flow from their calling – the unmerited favor (grace) and shalom (peace) that come from being in a right relationship with God through Christ.

Theological Implications of God's Calling

As we have seen, the concept of God's calling permeates these opening verses of Romans. But what does it mean to be "called by God," and what are the implications of this calling for believers today? Let us consider three primary ways the Scriptures describe God's calling, as outlined in the provided content.

1. Called to Salvation

The first and most fundamental way God calls us is to salvation. As the apostle Paul writes in Ephesians 2:5-9, "...even when we were dead in our trespasses, [God] made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace, you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast."

In our fallen state, we were spiritually dead and separated from God, unable to bridge the chasm created by sin. But in His love and mercy, God took the initiative to call us to salvation through the atoning work of Christ. This calling is not based on our merits or achievements but on God's grace – His unmerited favor bestowed upon those who place their faith in Jesus.

The apostle Peter echoes this truth, writing, "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9). Here, Peter reminds believers that they have been called out of the darkness of sin and unbelief into the marvelous light of a relationship with God. This calling is not merely a suggestion or an invitation but a powerful, effectual summons that transforms lives.

The Scriptures show numerous examples of God's calling to salvation. In the book of Genesis, God called Abram (later Abraham) to leave his homeland and follow Him, promising to make him a great nation and a blessing to all peoples (Genesis 12:1-3). In the New Testament, Jesus called Matthew the tax collector, to leave his former life and follow Him as a disciple (Matthew 9:9). The apostle Paul's dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus was likewise a powerful manifestation of God's calling, transforming him from a persecutor of the Church to a zealous proclaimer of the gospel (Acts 9:1-19).

God's calling to salvation is not limited to a particular time or place but extends to all people throughout history. As the apostle Paul writes to Timothy, "This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth" (1 Timothy 2:3-4). God desires that all would respond to His call and receive the gift of salvation through faith in Christ.

2. Called to Sanctification

Once we have been called to salvation, God continues to call us to a life of sanctification – the ongoing process of being conformed to the image of Christ. This calling is rooted in the holy character of God Himself, who commands His people, "You shall be holy, for I the LORD your God am holy" (Leviticus 19:2; cf. 1 Peter 1:16).

Sanctification is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey of holiness growth enabled by the Holy Spirit's indwelling presence. As the apostle Paul encourages the Thessalonian believers, "For this is the will of God, your sanctification..." (1 Thessalonians 4:3).

The call to sanctification is a call to increasingly reflect the character and priorities of Christ in our thoughts, words, and deeds. It involves putting off the old self and putting on the new self, "which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator" (Colossians 3:10). This process of transformation is not accomplished through human effort alone but through the power of the Holy Spirit working in us (Philippians 2:12-13).

The Book of Hebrews provides a stirring appeal to pursue holiness, reminding us that "without holiness no one will see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14). The author calls us to "strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14). This call to sanctification is not optional but essential for those who desire to fellowship with God and experience the fullness of His blessings.

Throughout the Scriptures, we find numerous examples of individuals who heeded God's call to holiness. Upon encountering God's holy presence, the prophet Isaiah was convicted of his sinfulness and responded with repentance and a renewed commitment to serve the Lord (Isaiah 6:1-8). After denying Christ, the apostle Peter was restored and called to a life of unwavering devotion and service (John 21:15-19).

The call to sanctification is not a one-time event but a continuous process of growth and transformation. As the apostle Paul reminds us, "And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit" (2 Corinthians 3:18). It is a lifelong journey of becoming more like Christ, enabled by the power of the Holy Spirit and the renewing of our minds through the study of God's Word.

3. Called to Service

In addition to calling us to salvation and sanctification, God also calls His people to a life of service – to participate in His redemptive purposes in the world. This calling is rooted in the Great Commission given by Jesus to His disciples: "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:19-20).

The apostle Paul echoes this call to service in Ephesians 4:1, urging believers to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called." This calling is not merely a suggestion but a divine summons to live lives that reflect the values and priorities of the Kingdom of God.

Throughout the New Testament, we see examples of individuals who heeded God's call to service. The apostle Paul himself was a remarkable example, tirelessly proclaiming the gospel and establishing churches throughout the Roman Empire (Acts 13-28). The early deacons, such as Stephen and Philip, were called to serve the practical needs of the Church, which led to opportunities for evangelism and ministry (Acts 6:1-7).

God's call to service is not limited to full-time ministry or missionary work but extends to all spheres of life. As the apostle Peter reminds us, "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9). Every believer is called to be a witness for Christ, proclaiming His excellencies through their words and actions, wherever God has placed them.

The calling to service is not merely a burden or obligation but a privilege and a source of joy. Jesus Himself said, "If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them" (John 13:17). When we faithfully respond to God's call and serve Him with our lives, we experience the blessings and fulfillment that come from aligning our purposes with His eternal plan.

Moreover, the call to service is not based on our own strength or abilities but on the equipping and empowering of the Holy Spirit. As the apostle Paul reminds us, "There are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone" (1 Corinthians 12:4-6). God provides the gifts and the grace necessary for us to fulfill the calling He has placed upon our lives.

The Ongoing Nature of God's Calling

As we have seen, God's calling is not a one-time event but an ongoing reality in believers' lives. Just as Paul describes himself as "called to be an apostle" (Romans 1:1), we are also called to a lifelong journey of following Christ and participating in His redemptive purposes.

The apostle Peter reminds us of the ongoing nature of God's calling, encouraging believers to "be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election" (2 Peter 1:10). This call to diligence implies that our calling is not a static reality but something that requires ongoing commitment and perseverance.

The book of Hebrews also emphasizes the importance of persevering in our calling, warning against falling away and urging believers to "hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful" (Hebrews 10:23). Our calling is not merely a one-time decision but a lifelong journey of faithfulness and trust in the One who has called us.

Throughout the Scriptures, we find examples of individuals who faithfully persevered in their calling despite challenges and opposition. The apostle Paul, even in the face of imprisonment and persecution, remained steadfast in his calling to proclaim the gospel, stating, "But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that day what has been entrusted to me" (2 Timothy 1:12).

The ongoing nature of God's calling also means that our understanding and expression of that calling may evolve and change over time. Just as the apostle Paul's calling took different forms throughout his life – from persecutor to apostle, from church planter to prisoner for the gospel – so too may our calling take on different expressions as we remain faithful to God's leading.

Ultimately, our calling is not something we achieve or accomplish through our efforts but a gracious gift from God, who initiates and sustains our journey of faith and service. As the apostle Paul reminds us, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9). God calls us, equips us, and empowers us to fulfill His purposes, and to Him belongs all the glory.

The Power and Privilege of God's Calling

As we reflect on the profound truths contained in Romans 1:1-7 and the theological implications of God's calling, we cannot help but be struck by the power and privilege that this calling bestows upon us as believers.

The Power of God's Calling

God's calling is not merely a polite invitation or a suggestion; it is a powerful, effectual summons that transforms lives and sets in motion God's redemptive purposes. When God calls, He provides the grace and strength necessary to respond to that calling.

The apostle Paul's life is a testament to the power of God's calling. As he recounts in Acts 26, he was a zealous persecutor of the Church, breathing threats and murder against the followers of Christ. But on the road to Damascus, he encountered the risen Lord Jesus in a blinding vision, and his life was forever changed. From that moment on, Paul was called to be an apostle, a messenger of the very gospel he had sought to destroy (Acts 26:12-18).

The power of God's calling is also evident in the lives of other biblical figures. Consider the prophet Jeremiah, who protested his inadequacy and youth when God called him to be a prophet to the nations (Jeremiah 1:6-8). Yet God's response was clear: "Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, declares the LORD" (Jeremiah 1:8). God's calling is accompanied by His presence and power, enabling us to accomplish tasks far beyond our own abilities.

The Privilege of God's Calling

Not only is God's calling powerful, but it is also a profound privilege. To be called by the Creator of the universe, the sovereign Lord of all, is an honor beyond measure.

In 1 Corinthians 1:26-29, the apostle Paul reminds us of the humbling reality that God's calling is not based on human wisdom, power, or status:

"For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God."

God's calling transcends human criteria and expectations. He chooses the weak, the foolish, and the despised to accomplish His purposes so that the glory belongs solely to Him. This truth should fill us with a profound sense of humility and gratitude, recognizing that our calling is not a result of our merit but a gracious gift from God.

Moreover, God's calling is a privilege because it invites us into a deeper relationship with Him and participation in His eternal purposes. As the apostle Peter declares, "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9). Through our calling, we become part of God's family, co-heirs with Christ, and ambassadors of His Kingdom.

Responding to God's Calling

How should we respond in light of the power and privilege of God's calling? The Scriptures offer clear guidance on embracing and faithfully stewarding this sacred calling.

First and foremost, we must respond with humble obedience. When God calls, we are not allowed to negotiate or dictate the terms; we are called to submit to His sovereign will and purposes. This obedience may require sacrifices and relinquishing our plans and ambitions, but it is the only path to true fulfillment and joy.

The prophet Isaiah provides a powerful example of this obedient response. After encountering God's holiness in a vision, he responds with repentance and a willing declaration: "Here am I! Send me" (Isaiah 6:8). Despite his own sense of unworthiness, Isaiah embraces God's calling with a heart of surrender and willingness to be used for God's purposes.

Secondly, we must respond with faith and trust in God's provision. Embracing God's calling often requires stepping out into the unknown beyond the boundaries of our own abilities and resources. But we can take courage in the promise of God's presence and provision, as He assures us: "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand" (Isaiah 41:10).

The apostle Paul exemplified this trust in God's provision as he embraced his calling to take the gospel to the Gentiles. Despite facing countless trials, persecutions, and hardships, he remained steadfast, declaring, "I can do all things through him who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13).

Finally, we must respond with perseverance and endurance. God's calling is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey filled with challenges and obstacles that must be overcome. The book of Hebrews exhorts us to "run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith" (Hebrews 12:1-2).

The prophet Jeremiah provides an inspiring example of perseverance in facing opposition and rejection. Despite being mocked, threatened, and even thrown into a cistern, he remained faithful to his calling as a prophet, declaring: "But if I say, 'I will not mention him or speak any more in his name,' there is in my heart as it were a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I am weary with holding it in, and I cannot" (Jeremiah 20:9). Jeremiah's commitment to his calling was unwavering, even in the face of immense adversity.

As we embrace the power and privilege of God's calling upon our lives, may we respond with humble obedience, steadfast faith, and persevering endurance, for it is in this faithful response that we will experience the fullness of God's purposes and the deep joy of walking in step with His will.

The Glorious Hope of Our Calling

As we conclude our exploration of God's calling, it is essential to remember that it is not merely about our present circumstances or temporary assignments; it is inextricably linked to the glorious hope of our eternal destiny in Christ.

The apostle Paul reminds us of this hope in Ephesians 1:18-19, praying that "the eyes of your hearts [would be] enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe."

Our calling is not merely a summons to a life of service or sacrifice; it is an invitation to participate in the eternal purposes of God and to inherit the glorious riches of His Kingdom. As the apostle Peter declares, "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9).

This hope is grounded in the finished work of Christ on the cross and His victorious resurrection. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus has secured our salvation and opened the way for us to be reconciled to God and to share in His eternal glory. As the apostle Paul writes, "For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, so that he might be the firstborn among many brothers" (Romans 8:29).

Our calling is ultimately to be transformed into the likeness of Christ, to share in His glory, and to reign with Him forever. This glorious hope sustains us in the midst of trials and tribulations, the assurance that our present sufferings are "not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us" (Romans 8:18).

As we embrace this hope, we can echo the confident words of the apostle Paul: "For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 8:38-39). No matter what challenges or obstacles we face in this life, our calling is secure, and our hope is anchored in the immutable promises of God.

This glorious hope should fill us with joy, gratitude, and a deep purpose as we live out our calling. It should motivate us to pursue holiness, to persevere in the face of adversity, and to boldly proclaim the excellencies of Him who called us out of darkness and into His marvelous light.

The apostle Peter exhorts us to "set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 1:13). This hope is not vague, wishful thinking but a confident assurance rooted in God's unfailing character and promises. It is a hope that sustains us in the present and propels us forward toward our eternal destiny.

Moreover, this hope should shape the way we live and the priorities we embrace. The apostle Paul urges us to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called" (Ephesians 4:1). Our calling is not merely a future reality but a present responsibility, requiring us to live lives that reflect the values and priorities of the Kingdom of God.

This means that we must put off the old self, with its corrupt desires and practices, and put on the new self, "created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness" (Ephesians 4:24). It means that we must set our minds on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God (Colossians 3:1-2), and live as citizens of heaven, ambassadors of the eternal Kingdom.

As we embrace the glorious hope of our calling, we can face the trials and challenges of this life with courage and confidence, knowing that our ultimate destiny is secure in Christ. The apostle Paul reminds us that "this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison" (2 Corinthians 4:17).

Even in the midst of suffering and persecution, we can rejoice, for our calling is not merely to endure but to reign with Christ forever. As the apostle Peter declares, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you" (1 Peter 1:3-4).

This living hope, this glorious inheritance, is the ultimate reality toward which our calling is oriented. It is the culmination of God's redemptive plan, the restoration of all things, and the ushering in a new heaven and earth, where righteousness dwells (2 Peter 3:13).

As we press on toward this glorious hope, let us do so with steadfast faith, unwavering obedience, and joyful anticipation, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58). For the One who has called us is faithful. He will bring to completion the good work He has begun in us (Philippians 1:6).

Conclusion

The opening verses of Romans 1 provide a rich tapestry of theological truth about God's calling. Three times, the apostle Paul uses the word "called" to describe his apostolic calling and the calling of the believers in Rome, underscoring the centrality of this concept in the Christian life.

As we have seen, God's calling is not merely a relic of the past or a privilege reserved for a select few but an ongoing reality for all believers. We are called to salvation, a gracious invitation to enter into a relationship with God through faith in Christ. We are called to sanctification, a lifelong journey of growth in holiness and conformity to the image of Christ. And we are called to service, to participate in God's redemptive purposes in the world, and to live lives that reflect the values and priorities of His Kingdom.

This calling is not based on our own merits or achievements but solely on the grace and initiative of God, who loved us and chose us before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4). It is a calling that requires ongoing commitment, perseverance, and faithfulness, as we journey with the One who has called us and rely on His strength and provision.

May we, like the apostle Paul and the believers in Rome, embrace the calling that God has placed upon our lives. May we respond with grateful hearts and unwavering commitment, walking in a manner worthy of the calling to which we have been called (Ephesians 4:1). And may we find our ultimate joy and fulfillment in serving the One who has graciously called us out of darkness and into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9).

And may we do so with unwavering confidence, knowing that the One who has called us is faithful, and He will bring to completion the good work He has begun in us (Philippians 1:6).

Our calling is not the work of human hands but the gracious and glorious summons of the Almighty God, who loved us and chose us before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4). To Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.