What does "many are called, but few are chosen" teach about salvation? Context: The Wedding Banquet Parable • Jesus tells of a king who prepares a wedding feast for his son (Matthew 22:1-13). • Invitations go out widely, yet most guests refuse or neglect the summons. • One man attends without proper wedding clothes and is expelled. • The lesson culminates: “For many are called, but few are chosen.” (Matthew 22:14) Phrase Explained: “Many Are Called, But Few Are Chosen” • Call = the open, genuine invitation of the gospel to everyone who hears it. • Chosen = those who not only hear but are accepted by the King because they come clothed in the righteousness He requires. • The contrast highlights divine sovereignty and human responsibility working together. Truths About God’s Universal Call • God desires all to repent: “He is patient … not wanting anyone to perish.” (2 Peter 3:9) • The invitation is real and well-meant: “Come, for everything is now ready.” (Luke 14:17) • Refusal is judged as willful rejection, not lack of opportunity. Truths About God’s Sovereign Choice • Election is rooted in eternity: “He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world.” (Ephesians 1:4) • God’s choice secures salvation’s completion: “Those He predestined, He also called … justified … glorified.” (Romans 8:29-30) • The chosen are evident by faith and obedience, pictured by the wedding garment. What Saves the Chosen? • Imputed righteousness symbolized by the garment (Isaiah 61:10). • Faith that receives Christ’s finished work (John 1:12; 3:16). • Ongoing surrender that proves genuine conversion (James 2:17). Confirming Scriptures • Another echo: “So the last will be first, and the first last. For many are called, but few chosen.” (Matthew 20:16) • Jesus’ promise: “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and whoever comes to Me I will never cast out.” (John 6:37) • Final victory: “With Him will be His called and chosen and faithful followers.” (Revelation 17:14) Takeaways for Believers Today • Proclaim the gospel freely—God’s call is for “many.” • Rest in God’s grace—being “chosen” depends on His mercy, not our merit. • Examine your “wedding garment”—trust Christ alone, not self-righteousness. • Persevere in faithfulness—the chosen are marked by enduring loyalty to the King. |
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