"Paul, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the Gospel of God." Romans 1:1

THE CALLING OF A SERVANT OF GOD

It is amazing how Biblical servants of God understood their calling. Let us consider the following examples:-

1. Calling of Jeremiah

"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you;
Before you were born I sanctified you;
I ordained you a prophet to the nations."
Jeremiah 1:5

2. Calling of the Messiah

"The LORD has called Me from the womb;
From the matrix of My mother He has made
mention of My name."
Isaiah 49:1

3. Calling of Paul

"But when it pleased God, who separated me
from my mother's womb and called me through
His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might
preach Him among the Gentiles."
Galatians 1:15-16

Each and every servant of God is spoken of as having been especially called and set aside for ministry!

SIGNIFICANCE OF TRACING THE ROOTS OF A HOLY CALLING

What are some important truths that we must bear in mind as we ponder the above texts that speak about God's holy calling?

1. Clear identification of the Source of this holy calling

It is God Himself who gives to each servant His calling! The highest ecclesiastical or religious authority cannot be compared to the Divine Source as far as authority is concerned.

2. Clear indication of the type of ministry to which the servant of God has been called:-

a) Jeremiah- a prophet

b) Jesus- The Messiah-Servant

c) Paul- An apostle (to the Gentiles)

Paul appealed to the fact that his standing as an apostle came from Jesus Himself!