Introduction

The concept of God's calling and mission is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the divine initiative in human history and individual lives. God's calling refers to His invitation to individuals and communities to participate in His redemptive work, while His mission encompasses the broader purpose and plan He has for creation. This entry explores the biblical foundations, examples, and implications of God's calling and mission.

Biblical Foundations

1. Divine Initiative: God's calling is rooted in His sovereign will and purpose. In the Old Testament, God calls individuals like Abraham, Moses, and the prophets to fulfill specific roles in His plan. Genesis 12:1-3 records God's call to Abram: "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. Universal Call: The New Testament expands the concept of calling to include all believers. Romans 8:28-30 states, "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose." This passage highlights that God's calling is not limited to a select few but extends to all who are in Christ.

3. Purpose and Mission: God's mission is to reconcile and restore creation through Jesus Christ. Ephesians 1:9-10 reveals, "And He has made known to us the mystery of His will according to His good pleasure, which He purposed in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to bring all things in heaven and on earth together in Christ."

Examples of God's Calling

1. Prophets and Leaders: Throughout the Old Testament, God calls individuals to lead and guide His people. Moses is called at the burning bush (Exodus 3:4), and Isaiah receives his prophetic commission in a vision (Isaiah 6:8): "Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send? Who will go for Us?' And I said, 'Here am I. Send me!'"

2. Disciples and Apostles: In the New Testament, Jesus calls His disciples to follow Him and participate in His mission. Matthew 4:19 records Jesus' call to Peter and Andrew: "Come, follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." The apostles are later commissioned to spread the Gospel to all nations (Matthew 28:19-20).

3. Paul's Conversion and Mission: The Apostle Paul exemplifies a dramatic calling and mission. Acts 9:15 describes God's purpose for Paul: "Go! This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel."

Implications for Believers

1. Identity and Purpose: Believers are called to live out their identity in Christ and participate in God's mission. 1 Peter 2:9 affirms, "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."

2. Service and Witness: God's calling involves serving others and bearing witness to the Gospel. Ephesians 4:1 urges believers to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received," emphasizing a life of service and integrity.

3. Empowerment by the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit empowers believers to fulfill their calling and mission. Acts 1:8 promises, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

Conclusion

While this entry does not include a formal conclusion, it is evident that God's calling and mission are integral to the biblical narrative and the life of every believer. Through His sovereign initiative, God invites individuals to participate in His redemptive work, empowering them by His Spirit to live out their calling in service and witness to the world.