How can we ensure we are among the "chosen" in Matthew 22:14? Setting the Scene “Many are called, but few are chosen.” (Matthew 22:14) The words close Jesus’ parable of the wedding banquet, where invited guests refuse to come, replacements are gathered, and a man without proper wedding clothes is expelled. The warning is solemn, yet the passage also shines with hope: the King gladly fills His hall with all who come in the right way. Called and Chosen—What’s the Difference? • Called: the universal gospel invitation, announced to “the whole creation” (Mark 16:15). • Chosen: those who respond in God-enabled faith, clothed in Christ’s righteousness, confirmed by a life that bears fruit (John 15:16; Romans 8:30). • The wedding garment symbolizes salvation received and displayed; without it, one remains outside, no matter how near the feast (Matthew 22:11-13). God’s Sovereign Initiative • “He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world” (Ephesians 1:4). • “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him” (John 6:44). • Divine election never cancels human responsibility; it guarantees that genuine seekers are enabled to come and kept to the end (Philippians 1:6). Our Required Response • Repent and believe the gospel (Mark 1:15). • Receive the gift of the wedding garment—Christ Himself (Galatians 3:27). • Yield to ongoing sanctification: “Work out your salvation… for it is God who works in you” (Philippians 2:12-13). Evidence of Being Among the Chosen • Growing obedience: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). • Perseverance: “The one who endures to the end will be saved” (Matthew 24:13). • Fruitfulness: “Every tree is known by its own fruit” (Luke 6:44). • Inner witness: “The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children” (Romans 8:16). • Love for fellow believers: “We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love our brothers” (1 John 3:14). Practical Steps for Daily Assurance 1. Abide in Christ through Scripture and prayer (John 15:4-7). 2. Confess sin promptly and walk in the light (1 John 1:7-9). 3. Engage in fellowship and mutual encouragement (Hebrews 10:24-25). 4. Serve with the gifts God provides (1 Peter 4:10-11). 5. Guard against complacency; examine yourself regularly (2 Corinthians 13:5). 6. “Make your calling and election sure” by adding virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love (2 Peter 1:5-10). Key Takeaways • God graciously calls many; He effectually chooses those who embrace His Son in faith. • Assurance rests on Christ’s finished work, confirmed by a transformed life. • Daily dependence on the Spirit, active obedience, and persevering faith keep us walking confidently among the chosen until the wedding feast is fulfilled. |
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