The concept of being “called” appears frequently in the Bible, particularly in the New Testament. The Greek word translated as “call” is “kaleo,” which broadly means to invite or summon. In a spiritual sense, being called refers to God’s universal invitation to individuals to follow Him, embrace faith, and become part of His kingdom.
For instance, Jesus’ parables often allude to a wide invitation extended to many. Matthew 22:14 states, “For many are called, but few are chosen.” This verse highlights the inclusive nature of the call—God extends His invitation to all. The call can manifest through various means: hearing the gospel, experiencing a sense of conviction, or feeling drawn to spiritual truth. It is an act of grace, signaling that God is initiating a relationship and offering the opportunity for salvation and purpose.
Paul’s letters also emphasize calling, not just as a call to salvation, but to a specific purpose or vocation within the faith. In Romans 8:28, Paul writes, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Here, calling is tied to a divine purpose, suggesting that each believer has a unique role in God’s plan.
The Meaning of Being “Chosen”
“Chosen,” on the other hand, carries the connotation of selection and preference. The Greek word for chosen is “eklektos,” meaning selected or elect. To be chosen is to be picked out from among many, set apart for a special purpose or destiny.
In the Old Testament, Israel is frequently referred to as God’s chosen people, not because of their merit but because of God’s sovereign choice. Deuteronomy 7:6 says, “For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession.” This choosing is an act of God’s will and love rather than a result of human effort.
In the New Testament, the idea of being chosen is extended to all who respond to God’s call through faith in Christ. 1 Peter 2:9 declares, “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession…” Here, being chosen signifies not just a status but also a responsibility to live in a way that reflects God’s character and purpose.
Key Differences Between Called and Chosen
The distinction between called and chosen can be understood through several key points:
- Scope of Invitation vs. Selection:
The calling is broad and inclusive; it is God’s invitation to all humanity to know Him and receive His grace. Being chosen is selective; it denotes those who respond to the call and are set apart for a unique relationship or purpose. - Response Matters:
While many are called, not all respond positively. The chosen are those who answer the call in faith and obedience. This does not necessarily mean that God is excluding others, but that the response to the call is crucial in moving from called to chosen. - Implication of Relationship:
The call is the beginning of a relationship with God. It is an open door. Being chosen often involves deeper intimacy and alignment with God’s will, indicating a progressive journey from being called to being chosen. - Purpose and Responsibility:
The called are invited to receive. The chosen are entrusted with greater responsibility—to serve, lead, and reflect God’s nature in the world.
Illustrations from Scripture
Several biblical stories illustrate the difference between being called and being chosen. The parable of the wedding banquet in Matthew 22 is a direct example. In the story, a king invites many guests to his son’s wedding feast. However, some ignore the invitation, while others respond but are found unworthy due to their lack of preparation. In the end, only a few are found worthy to remain at the banquet, leading Jesus to conclude, “For many are called, but few are chosen.”
Another example is the selection of the twelve apostles. Jesus called many disciples, but He chose twelve for a specific purpose—to be His closest followers and to carry on His mission after His resurrection (Luke 6:13). This shows that while calling can be widespread, choosing is often specific and purposeful.
Theological Perspectives on Calling and Choosing
Different Christian traditions interpret these terms in various ways. Some emphasize God’s sovereignty in choosing individuals for salvation (predestination), while others stress human free will in responding to God’s call. Regardless of theological nuances, most agree that God’s call is universal, but being chosen involves a personal response and a willingness to align one’s life with God’s purposes.
From a practical standpoint, being called and being chosen are not mutually exclusive. Instead, they represent stages or aspects of the spiritual journey. The call is the invitation; choosing is the outcome of accepting and embracing that invitation with commitment and faith.
Why Does the Difference Matter?
Understanding the difference between being called and being chosen has significant implications for personal faith and community life:
- Encouragement: Realizing that everyone is called can be a source of encouragement. No one is excluded from God’s invitation.
- Responsibility: Embracing the role of the chosen brings responsibility to live authentically, serve others, and pursue spiritual growth.
- Humility: Recognizing that being chosen is not about personal merit but about God’s grace fosters humility and gratitude.
- Motivation: For those who feel unworthy or overlooked, understanding that the call is open to all and that choosing is a process can be deeply motivating.
Living as the Called and Chosen
So, how does one move from being called to being chosen? While the process is ultimately a mystery rooted in God’s sovereignty and grace, Scripture suggests several practical steps:
- Respond to the Call: Engage with God’s invitation through prayer, study, and reflection. Say “yes” to opportunities for spiritual growth.
- Cultivate Faithfulness: The chosen are those who persevere, remaining faithful despite challenges. Commitment to God’s ways is key.
- Embrace Growth: Being chosen often involves refinement—allowing God to shape character, values, and priorities.
- Serve Others: The chosen are called to serve, using their gifts and experiences to bless others and advance God’s purposes.
- Stay Humble: Remember that being chosen is about grace, not merit. Stay open to God’s leading and remain grateful for His love.
FAQ: Understanding the Difference Between Being Called and Being Chosen
1. What does it mean to be "called" according to the Bible?
Being "called" refers to God’s universal invitation to all people to follow Him, embrace faith, and become part of His kingdom. The New Testament uses the Greek word "kaleo," meaning to invite or summon. It is an act of grace and the beginning of a relationship with God.
2. How is being "chosen" different from being "called"?
Being "chosen" (from the Greek "eklektos") means being selected or set apart from among many for a special purpose or destiny. While being called is an open invitation to all, being chosen refers to those who respond in faith and obedience, aligning themselves with God’s will.
3. Why are not all who are called also chosen?
Matthew 22:14 states, “For many are called, but few are chosen.” This means that while God’s invitation extends to everyone, only those who respond positively and prepare themselves are ultimately chosen. The response to the call is crucial in moving from called to chosen.
4. What is the significance of being chosen?
Being chosen involves greater responsibility and intimacy with God. The chosen are entrusted to serve, lead, and reflect God’s nature in the world. It signifies a deeper relationship and a willingness to fulfill a specific purpose in God’s plan.
5. Can someone move from being called to being chosen?
Yes. The journey from called to chosen involves responding to God’s invitation, cultivating faithfulness, embracing growth, serving others, and staying humble. It is a process rooted in both God’s sovereignty and personal commitment.
6. Do Christian traditions interpret "calling" and "choosing" differently?
Yes, interpretations vary. Some traditions focus on God’s sovereignty and predestination, while others emphasize free will and personal response. Most agree, however, that God’s call is universal and being chosen involves a personal response to that call.
