After Jesus told the parable of the wedding guest that came to the wedding of the king without proper clothes, He ended with the statement: “For many are called, but few are chosen”. (Matthew 22:4) This statement has created quite a lot of theological debate over the years. Whether one is aligned with the predestination position of election or more inclined toward the Wesleyan “free will” emphasis, this verse has been used to justify each one’s claim of accuracy. To understand this verse, we must look closely at the verbs Jesus used.
The word, “called”, (Greek – kletoi), is described as an invitation. The call of God does not always bring about an affirmative response. In Luke 9:57-62, depicts several people that would not give the “call” priority in their lives. They first wanted to bid farewell to their families or bury their parents, etc. This is also referred to as a general call to salvation as pictured in the parables of the call to the wedding feast. Many were called but few responded. All men are called to salvation regardless of their response. This is referred to as “effective calling”, in that it is effective unto salvation. This is the most frequent use of this word “call” in the New Testament.
Not everyone hears when Jesus is calling. Jesus said many times: “he who has ears to hear, let him hear.” (Matthew 11:15) Everyone has ears, but not everyone is listening. It is necessary that one gives attention to the call and responds accordingly. As one responds then the benefits can be experienced. Peter writes: “…you are called out of darkness into his marvellous light.” (1 Peter 2:9) Paul writes: “God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son.” (1 Corinthians 1:9) May I ask you this question: Wouldn’t you want to leave the darkness and experience freedom in the Light of God? Wouldn’t you want to have fellowship with Jesus and experience eternal salvation? I believe you would, so then you must respond. God does not force you to do what He has purposed for you, but He invites you into His will.
The next verb, chosen, (Greek – eklektoi), means called out, election, and chosen. Those who have responded to the call are chosen. Many churches give an “altar call”, meaning they give an invitation to come forward to receive Christ as their Savior and Lord. They may ask who would like to be saved to raise their hands. And then those who raised their hands are asked to come forward for prayer. In 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14, it reads: “…God chose you as first fruits to be saved…to this He called you through our gospel…”. First the calling, then our response and then the choosing.
To be chosen is linked with being called in that it speaks of purpose and assignment. I remember when I was a kid and loved to play basketball. The neighborhood boys would get together at the local court almost every Saturday afternoon. Two of the best players would take turns choosing who would be on their team. We would all stand there anxiously waiting to see whose team we would be on. Once the teams were selected then the game began. I know that our election in Christ has so much more ramifications than this illustration, but it helps me to understand that God has chosen me to fulfil a specific assignment within His purpose. Our success in life depends on our diligence in confirming our calling and election, (2 Peter 1:10). The Lord is looking for your raised hand, so He can place you in your destiny.
Scriptures to meditate on:
Matthew 22:14; 2 Peter 1:10; 1 Peter 2:9; Ephesians 1:4; John 15:16