The Divine Honor and Spiritual Significance of Being Chosen and Called by Jesus of Nazareth: Embracing Your Purpose and Destiny in Christ.
This Bible study explores the profound honor and spiritual weight of being chosen and called by Jesus Christ. It delves into the identity of the Caller, the eternal nature of His choice, the transformative power of His call, and the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit that equips believers to fulfill their divine purpose and destiny.
1. The Sovereign Caller: Understanding the Identity of Jesus Christ
1.1 Jesus Christ: The One True God Manifest in Flesh
Verses: Isaiah 9:6; John 1:1; John 1:14; 1 Timothy 3:16; Colossians 2:9
- Jesus is not merely a part of God, but the fullness of the Godhead bodily.
- He is the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, revealed in different capacities and manifestations.
- Understanding His singular divine identity is foundational to comprehending the authority and significance of our call.
1.2 The Voice That Calls: Creator and Redeemer
Verses: John 10:27; Genesis 1:1; Colossians 1:16-17; Ephesians 1:7
- The same God who created all things and sustains the universe is the one who personally calls us.
- His call is rooted in His eternal redemptive plan for humanity, initiated before time began.
- Recognizing the ultimate authority and love of the Caller deepens our reverence and response to His invitation.
2. The Divine Choice: Called According to His Purpose
2.1 Chosen Before the Foundation of the World
Verses: Ephesians 1:4-5; 2 Timothy 1:9; Romans 8:28-30
- Our calling is not accidental or coincidental but is part of God's eternal, sovereign design.
- He chose us in Christ for a specific purpose and destiny, predestining us to be conformed to His image.
- This pre-ordained choice highlights His immense love, foresight, and unwavering commitment to us.
2.2 The Purpose of the Call: Holiness and Service
Verses: 1 Peter 1:15-16; Romans 12:1-2; Ephesians 2:10
- We are called to be holy, set apart from the world and consecrated for God's exclusive use and glory.
- Our purpose includes engaging in good works, which God prepared beforehand for us to walk in.
- The divine call leads us to a life of dedication, transformation, and active service to His kingdom.
2.3 Responding to the Call: Repentance and New Birth
Verses: Acts 2:38; Mark 16:16; John 3:5; Romans 6:3-4
- Our initial response to His call involves heartfelt repentance from sin, turning away from our old life.
- Water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ is essential for the remission of sins and identification with His death, burial, and resurrection.
- Receiving the Holy Spirit, evidenced by speaking in other tongues, is the spiritual birth that empowers us for our purpose and destiny.
3. The Transformative Call: Living a Life of Consecration
3.1 Sanctification: Becoming Like Him
Verses: 2 Corinthians 3:18; Philippians 2:12-13; Hebrews 12:14
- The call initiates a continuous process of spiritual transformation, where we are changed from glory to glory.
- We are to actively pursue holiness and righteousness, allowing God's Spirit to work within us.
- God works in us both to will and to do of His good pleasure, conforming us to the image of His Son.
3.2 Obedience: Walking in His Will
Verses: John 14:15; 1 Samuel 15:22; James 1:22
- Our love for God and our commitment to His call are demonstrated through our obedience to His commands.
- Walking in His perfect will brings profound blessing, peace, and the fulfillment of our divine purpose.
- Obedience is a continuous act of faith, trust, and submission to the wisdom and guidance of the Caller.
3.3 Separation: Set Apart from the World
Verses: 2 Corinthians 6:17-18; Romans 12:2; 1 John 2:15-17
- Being chosen and called means being distinct and separate from the world's values, systems, and practices.
- We are called to live a life that reflects God's character and light in a dark world.
- This spiritual separation allows us to maintain our purity and be effective witnesses for Christ.
4. The Empowering Spirit: Equipped for Service and Destiny
4.1 The Promise of the Spirit: Power from On High
Verses: Acts 1:8; Acts 2:4; Luke 24:49
- The Holy Spirit is the indwelling power of God, promised to all believers to enable them to live out their calling.
- He equips us with divine ability, courage, and wisdom to fulfill the mission entrusted to us.
- Receiving the Holy Spirit, with the initial evidence of speaking in other tongues, is crucial for spiritual empowerment.
4.2 Gifts of the Spirit: Tools for Ministry
Verses: 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; Romans 12:6-8; Ephesians 4:11-12
- The Spirit bestows various spiritual gifts upon believers for the edification of the church and the advancement of God's kingdom.
- These gifts enable us to effectively serve God and others according to His divine design.
- Each believer has a unique role and a specific gift or gifts to contribute to the body of Christ.
4.3 Fulfilling Our Destiny: Living a Purpose-Driven Life
Verses: Philippians 3:14; Acts 20:24; 2 Timothy 4:7-8
- Our calling leads us to a life of actively pursuing God's ultimate plan and purpose for our existence.
- We are to press towards the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
- Faithfully completing our divine assignment brings profound satisfaction and eternal reward in His presence.