The concept of "The Hope of Our Calling" is a profound theme in Christian theology, deeply rooted in the New Testament. It encapsulates the future expectation and assurance that believers have in Christ, stemming from their divine calling. This hope is not merely wishful thinking but a confident expectation based on the promises of God.

Biblical Foundation

The phrase "The Hope of Our Calling" is prominently featured in Ephesians 1:18, where the Apostle Paul prays for the Ephesian believers: "I ask that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know the hope of His calling, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints" . This verse highlights the spiritual enlightenment necessary to grasp the magnitude of the hope that comes with being called by God.

Nature of the Hope

1. Eternal Life: Central to the hope of our calling is the promise of eternal life. Titus 1:2 speaks of "the hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised before time began" . This hope assures believers of their future with God, transcending the temporal nature of earthly existence.

2. Inheritance: The hope of our calling includes the anticipation of a heavenly inheritance. As stated in 1 Peter 1:3-4, "He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven for you" . This inheritance is secure and eternal, contrasting with the fleeting treasures of this world.

3. Transformation and Glory: The hope also encompasses the transformation into Christlikeness and sharing in His glory. Romans 8:29-30 outlines this process, emphasizing that those whom God has called are also justified and glorified. The ultimate hope is to be conformed to the image of Christ, sharing in His glory.

The Role of Faith and Love

The hope of our calling is intricately linked with faith and love. Colossians 1:4-5 states, "because we have heard about your faith in Christ Jesus and your love for all the saints, the faith and love proceeding from the hope stored up for you in heaven" . This hope fuels a life of faith and love, motivating believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling.

The Assurance of Hope

Hebrews 6:11-12 encourages believers to "show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, so that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises" . The assurance of hope is not passive but requires active perseverance and faithfulness.

The Source of Hope

The hope of our calling is rooted in the character and promises of God. Romans 15:13 declares, "Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit" . It is God Himself who instills and sustains this hope within believers through the Holy Spirit.

Implications for Christian Living

Understanding the hope of our calling has profound implications for how Christians live. It provides strength and encouragement in the face of trials, as seen in Romans 5:3-5, which speaks of rejoicing in sufferings because they produce perseverance, character, and hope. This hope does not disappoint because it is grounded in God's love poured into our hearts.

Furthermore, the hope of our calling inspires holiness and purity. 1 John 3:3 states, "And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure" . The anticipation of Christ's return and the fulfillment of our hope motivates believers to live lives that reflect His holiness.

In summary, the hope of our calling is a central tenet of the Christian faith, offering assurance of eternal life, a heavenly inheritance, and transformation into Christlikeness. It is a hope that is active, requiring faith, love, and perseverance, and it is sustained by the power of the Holy Spirit.