Introduction

The concept of God's call and commission is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the divine initiative in selecting individuals for specific purposes and tasks. This divine calling often involves a transformative encounter with God, leading to a mission that aligns with His sovereign plan. The Bible provides numerous examples of such callings, each illustrating the nature of God's interaction with humanity and His desire to accomplish His will through chosen individuals.

Old Testament Examples

1. Abraham: God's call to Abraham marks a pivotal moment in biblical history. In Genesis 12:1-3 , God commands Abraham to leave his country and promises to make him a great nation. This call establishes the Abrahamic Covenant, a foundational element in God's redemptive plan: "Go from your country, your people, and your father's household to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you."

2. Moses: The call of Moses is another significant example, occurring at the burning bush in Exodus 3. God commissions Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, saying in Exodus 3:10 , "So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt." Moses' initial reluctance highlights the human element in divine callings, yet God's assurance and provision underscore His sovereignty and faithfulness.

3. Isaiah: The prophet Isaiah's call is vividly described in Isaiah 6. In a vision, Isaiah sees the Lord seated on a throne and responds to God's question, "Whom shall I send?" with the words, "Here am I. Send me!" (Isaiah 6:8). This encounter emphasizes the holiness of God and the purification required for those He commissions.

New Testament Examples

1. The Disciples: Jesus' call to His disciples is a cornerstone of the New Testament narrative. In Matthew 4:19 , Jesus calls Peter and Andrew with the words, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." This call involves leaving their former lives and committing to the mission of spreading the Gospel.

2. Paul: The Apostle Paul's conversion and commission are detailed in Acts 9. On the road to Damascus, Paul encounters the risen Christ, who calls him to be an apostle to the Gentiles. In Acts 9:15 , the Lord tells Ananias, "Go! This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel."

3. The Great Commission: Jesus' final instructions to His disciples, known as the Great Commission, encapsulate the call to evangelism and discipleship. In Matthew 28:19-20 , Jesus commands, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you."

Characteristics of God's Call

1. Divine Initiative: God's call originates from His sovereign will and purpose. It is not based on human merit but on God's grace and plan.

2. Transformative Encounter: Those called by God often experience a profound encounter that changes their lives and perspectives, equipping them for their mission.

3. Empowerment and Assurance: God provides the necessary resources, guidance, and assurance to fulfill the commission. This is evident in His promises to be with those He calls, as seen in Exodus 3:12 , "I will surely be with you."

4. Obedience and Faith: Responding to God's call requires faith and obedience, often involving sacrifice and a departure from one's previous life or plans.

Conclusion

The theme of God's call and commission is woven throughout the biblical narrative, demonstrating God's active role in history and His desire to work through individuals to accomplish His divine purposes. Each calling is unique, yet all share the common elements of divine initiative, transformative encounter, empowerment, and the requirement of faith and obedience.