The concept of the grace of God in calling is a profound theme woven throughout the Scriptures, highlighting the divine initiative in the salvation of humanity. This grace is understood as the unmerited favor of God, extended to individuals, drawing them into a relationship with Him through Jesus Christ. The calling of God is both an invitation and an empowerment, enabling believers to respond to His call.

Divine Initiative and Sovereignty

The grace of God in calling underscores His sovereignty and initiative in the process of salvation. In Ephesians 1:4-5 , the Apostle Paul writes, "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 passage emphasizes that God's calling is rooted in His eternal purpose and love, independent of human merit or effort.

Effectual Calling

The calling of God is often described as effectual, meaning it accomplishes its intended purpose. Romans 8:30 states, "And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified." This sequence illustrates the certainty and effectiveness of God's call, leading to justification and ultimately glorification. The grace of God ensures that those whom He calls will respond in faith and be saved.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the grace of God in calling. It is through the Spirit that individuals are convicted of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8). The Spirit works in the hearts of individuals to open their eyes to the truth of the Gospel and to draw them to Christ. In 1 Corinthians 2:12 , Paul explains, "We have not received the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us." The Spirit's work is essential in enabling individuals to comprehend and accept the grace offered in the Gospel.

Universal Call and Particular Call

The grace of God in calling can be understood in terms of both a universal and a particular call. The universal call is the general invitation to all people to repent and believe in the Gospel, as seen in passages like Matthew 22:14 , "For many are called, but few are chosen." This call is extended to all humanity, reflecting God's desire for all to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).

The particular call, however, is the specific and effectual call to those whom God has chosen. This call is not merely an invitation but a powerful work of grace that brings about a willing response. Jesus speaks of this in John 6:44 , "No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him, and I will raise him up at the last day."

Response to the Call

While the grace of God in calling is sovereign and effectual, it also involves a human response. This response is one of faith and repentance, enabled by God's grace. Ephesians 2:8-9 declares, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." The response to God's call is itself a result of His grace, ensuring that salvation is entirely a work of God from beginning to end.

The Purpose of God's Calling

The grace of God in calling is not only about individual salvation but also about fulfilling His greater purposes. Believers are called to be conformed to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29) and to participate in His mission in the world. 1 Peter 2:9 describes believers as "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." This calling involves living a life that reflects God's holiness and proclaiming His Gospel to others.

In summary, the grace of God in calling is a testament to His sovereign love and mercy, drawing individuals to Himself and enabling them to respond in faith. It is a divine initiative that ensures the fulfillment of His redemptive purposes in the lives of those He calls.