The concept of a divine calling or purpose is an idea that resounds with believers, and non-believers alike. Many people search for a higher purpose in their lives, a path that they believe they are destined to take. But what does the Bible, especially in its original context, actually say about the idea of a calling?

Understanding the Concept of ‘Calling’ in the Bible

Before we approach specific examples and verses, we need to understand the overarching concept of a ‘calling’ in the Bible. It is a complex idea, with many layers and interpretations across both the Old and New Testaments.

When we delve into the concept of a calling from a biblical perspective, we find that it encompasses more than just a simple invitation or task. In biblical terms, a calling refers to the purpose God has planned for an individual’s life. It’s a term that describes a process, where God invites people to accomplish a specific task or role. This divine calling has deep roots in the Bible, from the very beginning with Abraham to the New Testament with the disciples of Jesus.

However, a calling is not limited to a divine task. It can encompass the entirety of an individual’s life, guiding choices, values, and pursuits. It is a comprehensive and transformative journey that shapes one’s identity and purpose.

Defining ‘Calling’ from a Biblical Perspective

In biblical terms, a calling refers to the purpose God has planned for an individual’s life. It’s a term that describes a process, where God invites people to accomplish a specific task or role. This divine calling has deep roots in the Bible, from the very beginning with Abraham to the New Testament with the disciples of Jesus.

However, a calling is not limited to a divine task. It can encompass the entirety of an individual’s life, guiding choices, values, and pursuits. It is a comprehensive and transformative journey that shapes one’s identity and purpose.

The Old Testament and the Idea of Calling

In the Old Testament, calling often comes across dramatically. God personally calls prophets like Moses and Jeremiah to deliver His messages to the people. This calling is not an impersonal, generalized invitation. Rather, it is a specific and profound summons to fulfill God’s will.

For example, when God called Moses, it was a life-altering event. Moses was tending his flock when he encountered a burning bush that was not consumed by the flames. In that moment, God spoke to Moses, revealing His plan for him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. This calling demanded obedience, courage, and unwavering faith from Moses.

Although the concept of a calling in the Old Testament is primarily associated with prophets and leaders, it also holds a broader implication. It signifies the relationship between God and His people and the resulting duties that adherence to Him brings.

The New Testament’s Interpretation of Calling

The New Testament takes the concept of a calling and expands its horizons. Jesus calls His disciples not just to a mission but to a complete transformation and commitment to the Kingdom of God. It moves from a specific, task-centered view to a comprehensive life-centric approach.

When Jesus called His disciples, He invited them to leave behind their former lives and follow Him. It was a call to a radical reorientation of their priorities, values, and even their relationships. They were called to be fishers of men, spreading the good news of salvation and embodying the love and grace of God.

The Apostle Paul further develops this concept, emphasizing it as a call to holiness. For Paul, a Christian calling is not primarily about doing but being, being in Christ and living out the implications of that relationship. It is a call to live a life worthy of the gospel, to bear fruit in every good work, and to walk in the footsteps of Jesus.

Paul’s own calling serves as a powerful example of this. He was dramatically called by Jesus on the road to Damascus, transforming him from a persecutor of Christians to one of the most influential apostles of the early church. Paul’s calling was not just a task to fulfill, but a complete redirection of his life and identity.

Throughout the New Testament, we see various individuals responding to their calling in different ways. Some, like Peter and Paul, embraced their calling wholeheartedly and devoted their lives to spreading the gospel. Others, like the rich young ruler, struggled to let go of their worldly possessions and fully surrender to their calling.

Understanding the concept of ‘calling’ in the Bible is essential for believers today. It challenges us to seek God’s will for our lives, to listen for His voice, and to respond with obedience and faith. Our calling may not be as dramatic as the prophets or the disciples, but it is no less significant. It is a divine invitation to live a purposeful and impactful life, fulfilling the unique role that God has designed for each of us.

Biblical Figures and Their Callings

To get a further understanding of how a calling operates in the Bible, let’s review the experiences of key biblical figures who responded to God’s call.

The Calling of Moses

Moses’ calling began with an encounter at the burning bush. As he tended to his flock, he noticed a bush that was on fire but was not consumed by the flames. Curiosity drew him closer, and it was then that God called Moses by name and commanded him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.

It was a daunting mission, as Moses knew the power and might of Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt. However, God assured him of His presence and promised to be with him every step of the way. Moses, a humble and reluctant leader, questioned his own capabilities and expressed his lack of eloquence.

But God reassured him, saying, “Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.” This exchange reminds us that a calling is not about our abilities, but rather about God’s power working through us.

The Calling of the Disciples

The calling of Jesus’ disciples provides another perspective on responding to a divine call. Unlike Moses, who was called individually, the disciples were ordinary men called together to follow Jesus. Their calling was to leave their old lives behind and join Jesus in His ministry.

This collective calling shows that while a calling can be personal, it can also involve a communal dimension. It often calls us into community, into the shared life and mission of the church. The disciples, through their shared experiences and teachings from Jesus, were able to support and encourage one another as they embarked on their journey of faith.

The Calling of Paul

The conversion and calling of Paul take the concept of a divine call to a new level. Paul, originally known as Saul, was an enemy of the early church. He actively persecuted and sought to destroy the followers of Jesus. However, on the road to Damascus, he had a life-changing encounter with the risen Christ.

In a blinding light, Jesus spoke to him, saying, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” This encounter transformed Saul and gave him a new purpose: to take the gospel to the Gentiles. The once zealous persecutor of Christians became one of the most influential apostles in spreading the message of Jesus.

Paul’s calling reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s transformative call. Even those who seem the most unlikely candidates can be called into His service. It is a testament to God’s boundless grace and His ability to change hearts and lives.

These stories of Moses, the disciples, and Paul provide us with valuable insights into the nature of a calling. They demonstrate that a calling can come in various forms, be it through a burning bush, a collective invitation, or a life-altering encounter. They remind us that a calling is not limited to the extraordinary or the perfect, but encompasses ordinary individuals who are willing to respond to God’s voice and follow His lead.

The Nature of God’s Calling

God’s calling is multifaceted and far-reaching. It’s irrevocable, personalized, and purposeful.

The Irrevocability of God’s Calling

According to Romans 11:29, “God’s gifts and his call can never be withdrawn.” This emphasizes the permanence of God’s calling. It doesn’t expire or get invalidated by our failures.

God’s calling remains in effect, persistent and steady, always inviting us back regardless of how far we stray. This irrevocable nature of the calling offers hope and assurance, that God never gives up on us.

The Personal Nature of God’s Calling

God’s calling is inherently personal. As with Moses, God calls us by name, acknowledging our unique individuality. He has a particular path embroidered for each person, according to their talents and capabilities, but also their places of weakness, where His strength can be made perfect.

The Purpose of God’s Calling

The purpose of God’s calling is manifold. Primarily, it is for His glory. Besides this primary reason, God calls us for our good and for the benefit of those around us. It is a call to serve, to love, and to contribute to His kingdom.

Responding to God’s Calling

When confronted with a divine calling, how should we respond? The Bible provides guidance on recognising, accepting, and fulfilling God’s calling.

Recognizing God’s Calling

Recognizing a divine calling is often a challenge. It may not come with a dramatic event like a burning bush. Most often, God’s call is discerned over time, through prayer, reading the Bible, and heeding counsel from mature believers.

Accepting God’s Calling

Accepting God’s calling is about taking that first step in faith, even when the path is unclear and the destination unknown. It’s trusting God’s wisdom and relying on His strength rather than our own.

Fulfilling God’s Calling

Fulfilling a divine calling is an ongoing process, not a one-time event. It involves continual growth, regular rekindling our commitment to God, and daily dying to self. It’s a lifelong journey of obedience, faith, and humility.

In conclusion, a calling in the biblical sense is far more than a career or role. It is God summoning us into a relationship, into an adventure of faith, and into a life of purpose and meaning.