Topical Encyclopedia
The concept of God's initiative in calling is a central theme throughout the Bible, illustrating the divine sovereignty and grace in the relationship between God and humanity. This initiative underscores the belief that God is the primary actor in the process of calling individuals and communities to Himself, for His purposes and glory.
Old Testament FoundationsIn the Old Testament, God's initiative is evident from the very beginning. The calling of Abraham is a prime example. In
Genesis 12:1-3 , God calls Abram, saying, "Go forth from your country and from your kindred and from your father’s house to the land that I will show you." This call is unsolicited by Abram and marks the beginning of a covenant relationship that would shape the history of Israel.
Similarly, the calling of Moses in
Exodus 3 demonstrates God's initiative. God appears to Moses in the burning bush and commissions him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Moses did not seek this role; rather, God chose him, saying, "I have surely seen the affliction of My people who are in Egypt... So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt" (
Exodus 3:7, 10).
The prophets also illustrate God's initiative in calling. Isaiah's vision in the temple (Isaiah 6) and Jeremiah's call (
Jeremiah 1:4-5) both highlight that it is God who initiates the call, often before the individual is even aware of their purpose.
New Testament FulfillmentIn the New Testament, God's initiative in calling is further revealed through the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Jesus calls His disciples with authority and purpose. In
Matthew 4:18-20 , Jesus calls Peter and Andrew, saying, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." This call is direct and transformative, requiring an immediate response.
The Apostle Paul is another significant example. In
Acts 9, Paul's conversion on the road to Damascus is a dramatic instance of God's initiative. Paul, then known as Saul, is actively persecuting Christians when Jesus intervenes, calling him to be an apostle to the Gentiles. This calling is reiterated in
Galatians 1:15-16 , where Paul states, "But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by His grace, was pleased to reveal His Son in me so that I might preach Him among the Gentiles..."
Theological ImplicationsTheologically, God's initiative in calling emphasizes His sovereignty and grace. It is God who chooses and calls individuals, not based on their merit, but according to His purpose and will.
Ephesians 1:4-5 reflects this, stating, "For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence. In love He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will."
This divine initiative assures believers of their secure position in God's plan.
Romans 8:28-30 affirms, "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. For those God foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son... And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified."
Practical ApplicationUnderstanding God's initiative in calling encourages believers to respond in faith and obedience. It calls for a recognition of God's sovereignty and a trust in His purposes. Believers are reminded that their calling is not of their own making but is a divine invitation to participate in God's redemptive work in the world. This perspective fosters humility, gratitude, and a commitment to live out one's calling with diligence and faithfulness.