The Called and the Chosen
The saying in Matthew 22:14, “Many are called, but few are chosen” comes from a story that Jesus told. Imagine there’s a big party, like a wedding feast, and lots of people are invited. This is what it means by “many are called” — everyone gets an invitation to the party.
Now, in this story, the host of the party represents God, and the party itself is like being close to God and receiving His blessings and love. So, when we say “many are called,” it means that God invites everyone to be a part of His family and share in His goodness.
2 Timothy 1:9 says, “Who saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was granted to us in Christ Jesus from all eternity.”
However, the second part, “Few are Chosen,” is about what happens after the invitations are sent out. Out of all the people who were invited, only a few actually showed up and participated fully in the party. These are the ones who are chosen because they responded to the invitation with excitement and a genuine desire to be there.
John 15:16 says, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.”
So, let’s break it down further. The “called” are all the people who hear about God and His love, maybe through reading the Bible or hearing about Him from others. They know about the party (God’s kingdom), but not everyone decides to join in or take it seriously.
On the other hand, the “chosen” are the ones who not only hear about God but also make a real effort to be close to Him. They believe in Him, trust Him, and try to live according to His teachings. They don’t just talk the talk; they walk the walk.
Think of it like this: Imagine you’re throwing a birthday party, and you invite all your friends. Everyone gets an invitation, but only a few friends show up on time, bring gifts, and really enjoy celebrating with you. Those few friends are like the “chosen” ones at God’s party.
The saying teaches us that it’s not enough to just know about God or hear about His love. We have to take that invitation seriously, respond with enthusiasm, and live our lives in a way that shows we truly want to be close to Him. Being “chosen” is about actively participating in our relationship with God and embracing His love and guidance in everything we do.
Fifty years ago, I committed my life to serving the Lord. I hold an associate’s degree in Christian Education and a bachelor’s degree in Christian Counseling. In my retirement, I focus on studying and sharing the teachings of God’s Word with others. I maintain 3 Facebook pages dedicated to spreading the Word of God. To contact Dean or share you own thoughts, email hopeinchrist2024@yahoo.com.