What does "called to be an apostle" reveal about God's calling for us? Verse Snapshot “Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, and set apart for the gospel of God” (Romans 1:1). The Weight of “Called” • The initiative is entirely God’s – “And those He predestined He also called; those He called He also justified” (Romans 8:30). – “He has saved us and called us to a holy calling… by His own purpose and by the grace He granted us in Christ Jesus before time began” (2 Timothy 1:9). • Calling is both personal and purposeful; it is a summons, not a suggestion. • God’s call is irrevocable (Romans 11:29). God Calls Individuals by Name • Paul’s Damascus-road encounter (Acts 9) mirrors earlier patterns: – Moses: “God called to him from within the bush” (Exodus 3:4). – Isaiah: “Whom shall I send?” (Isaiah 6:8). – Jeremiah: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you… I appointed you” (Jeremiah 1:5). • Each call carries a unique assignment, yet all flow from the same divine voice. Our Own Calling in Christ • Universal dimensions: – Called to salvation (1 Corinthians 1:9). – Called to holiness (1 Peter 1:15). – Called out of darkness to proclaim His virtues (1 Peter 2:9). • Personal dimensions: – Distinct gifts (Romans 12:6). – Distinct works “prepared in advance” (Ephesians 2:10). Specific vs. Universal Callings Universal for every believer: • To belong to Christ (Romans 1:6). • To grow in Christlikeness (Ephesians 4:1). • To witness to the gospel (Matthew 28:19-20). Specific for each believer: • Particular roles—apostle, encourager, servant, giver, teacher. • Timely assignments that may shift, yet remain rooted in the unchanging gospel. Set Apart for the Gospel • “Set apart” underscores purpose: God never calls without assigning mission. • Paul links his call to the gospel’s advance (Galatians 1:15-16). • Our separation is not from people but from aimlessness; we are freed for fruitful service. Responding to the Call • Obedience: Paul moved immediately—so should we (Acts 26:19). • Dependence: “The One who calls you is faithful, and He will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:24). • Perseverance: “I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me” (Philippians 3:12). Living Out the Call Today • Listen: Stay attentive through Scripture and prayer; God still speaks. • Identify: Discern gifts and passions in light of the body’s needs. • Commit: Step into service, trusting God to supply what He commands. • Celebrate: Every calling—seen or hidden—magnifies the gospel’s reach. |
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