Overview
By Olivia Saunders
When we hear the word “Calling” in the church, so many things can come to mind. Some might be clear on what God is called us to do, others might still be unsure or feel unqualified. The best part is that we all have a calling to be used by God, and we have a responsibility to operate in it. As we are still in the beginning of 2024, if there’s any uncertainty, this is the time to seek God and see what He will say.
The Apostle Paul starts out encouraging us about who we are all called to be in God. He reminds us of what our Christian walk should look like and how to operate in unity towards each other. Not only do we have separate gifts but God called us all on how to treat each other, and how we are to show His love to each other. No matter the calling, we are not excluded from His basic principles.
With different gifts, comes different responsibilities. In verse 16, Paul reminds of that every part of the body of Christ has its own special place, and each member is spiritually developed. Regardless of where one fits in the body, we rejoice because we have been called and included in the work of the Lord which will be rewarded greatly by God. When Jesus was on earth He accepted His role, and made the ultimate sacrifice so that we can live in Him today. When Jesus was called, He answered and without hesitation did what the Father sent Him to do.
Related Scriptures
By Brittenne Boykin
John 17:4-5
In John 17:4-5 we see an intimate conversation between Jesus and His Father. He is nearing the cross. He tells His Father that He has glorified Him on earth and asks that God glorify Him in his presence. He longs at that moment for nothing less than the sweet fellowship that they had before the world existed.
I Corinthians 12:12-31
In I Corinthians 12:12-31 Paul reiterates the concept of the unity of the body by using the analogy of one body and many members. He points out that one part of the human body is no more important than another. The eye cannot say to the hand I have no need of you because they are both equally important to the functioning of the body as a whole. Each part is working effectively in its function to support the health and well being of the body as a whole.
I Peter 3:8-12
The set of scriptures in 1 Peter 3:8-12, masterfully highlights the importance and necessity of unity of mind, tenderness of heart, brotherly love, a humble heart and not repaying evil for evil, even under persecution. The passage reminds us that for this we were called, even as Paul reminded us in our lesson text to walk worthy of our calling. We are cautioned about doing evil. The writer leaves us with a comforting picture of God’s eyes being on the righteous and his ears open to them. In contrast we are given a sobering visual of God’s face being against those that do evil, therefore the choice is ours.
Practical Points
By Janice Hall
2). Being one in Christ means that our common purpose and goal should be to glorify God.
4). The gifts of grace we receive come because of Christ’s victory.
We glorify God for the grace in our lives. God’s grace with power, life and righteousness given to us by unmerited favor. Through God’s grace He works effectively to manifest change in our hearts and lives. God’s grace is so amazing because it is a free gift and undeserved and purchased at a great price. Worshipping the Lord, sharing the gospel, spending time with the Lord, giving generously are a just few ways that we glorify God.
Glorifying God moves beyond self interest to interests of God. We are to focus on commitment, discipleship and giving of oneself to our Lord and the needs of others. We glorify God when we believe by faith and reflect His glory. God’s grace is the foundation of the Christian’s salvation, and salvation is by grace because it is a gift.
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