Remember the Calling

Bible Bites

Scott Beyer
03/07/23 - Bulletin

“To the church of God which is at Corinth, to those who have been sanctified in Christ Jesus, saints by calling…” (1 Corinthians 1:2)

Paul referred to the Christians at Corinth as “saints by calling”. What exactly does that mean? Such language is found throughout the New Testament. In the same chapter, Paul will tell them to “remember their calling” (1 Cor 1:26), and Ephesians will remind the saints of the “hope of their calling” (Ephesians 4:4) and to walk in a manner “worthy of their calling” (Ephesians 4:1). Even the very word ‘church’ means ‘the called out’.

So, how do we receive this calling? Who has God chosen to call? The answer is found in 2 Thessalonians 2:14 – “He called you through our gospel, that you may gain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.” God calls us through the New Testament – the gospel of His Son, Jesus Christ. God calls to all in the hopes that all will heed the calling and walk in a manner worthy of it. Yet, we must also remember Jesus’ words, “For many are called, but few are chosen.” (Matthew 22:14)

The gospel is the method by which God calls all men to Himself that we might have hope, worth, and glory.

Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites

Today’s Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:1-9

Questions to ask:

How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?

This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul. If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision