Understanding our qualification in the context of the Christian faith involves recognizing the divine enablement and calling that believers receive through their relationship with God. This concept is deeply rooted in the teachings of the New Testament, where the apostle Paul frequently addresses the nature of our qualification as believers.

Divine Qualification through Christ

The foundation of our qualification is found in the work of Jesus Christ. In Colossians 1:12-14 , Paul writes, "giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the light. He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." Here, the qualification is not based on human merit but on the redemptive work of Christ, who transfers believers from darkness to light.

The Role of Grace

Grace plays a pivotal role in understanding our qualification. Ephesians 2:8-9 states, "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." This passage emphasizes that our qualification is a gift from God, underscoring the unmerited favor that believers receive. It is through grace that believers are equipped and empowered to fulfill their calling.

Empowerment by the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is integral to the believer's qualification. In 2 Corinthians 3:5-6 , Paul asserts, "Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim that anything comes from us, but our competence comes from God. He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life." The Holy Spirit empowers believers, enabling them to serve effectively in the ministry of the new covenant.

Faith and Obedience

While divine grace and empowerment are essential, faith and obedience are also crucial components of our qualification. James 2:17 reminds us, "So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead." Genuine faith manifests in obedience and action, reflecting the believer's commitment to God's will. This active faith is a response to the qualification received through Christ and the Holy Spirit.

The Purpose of Qualification

Understanding our qualification also involves recognizing its purpose. Ephesians 2:10 declares, "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life." Believers are qualified to participate in God's work, fulfilling the good works He has prepared. This purpose aligns with the Great Commission, where Jesus instructs His followers to "go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19).

Assurance and Confidence

Finally, understanding our qualification provides assurance and confidence. Philippians 1:6 offers encouragement: "being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will continue to perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus." Believers can be assured that their qualification is secure in Christ, and God will continue to work in and through them until the fulfillment of His purposes.

In summary, understanding our qualification involves recognizing the divine work of Christ, the role of grace, the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, the necessity of faith and obedience, the purpose of our calling, and the assurance of God's continued work in our lives. These elements together form a comprehensive view of how believers are equipped and called to serve in God's kingdom.