Bible Study: Matthew 22:14 – ‘Many Are Called, Few Are Chosen’

What Does “Many Are Called, Few Are Chosen” Mean in the Bible?

In the Gospel of Matthew, we encounter the profound and challenging words of our Lord: “Many are called, but few are chosen” (Matthew 22:14). This phrase concludes the Parable of the Wedding Feast, a parable that invites us to reflect deeply on our response to God’s generous invitation to the Kingdom of Heaven.

In the parable, a king prepares a wedding banquet for his son and sends his servants to invite the guests. Initially, those invited refuse to come, some even mistreating and killing the servants. The king then extends the invitation to everyone his servants can find, both good and bad, filling the banquet hall. However, when the king comes in to see the guests, he finds a man not wearing wedding clothes and orders him to be thrown out into the darkness. 

This parable teaches us several important lessons:

1. God’s Universal Invitation: The king’s invitation represents God’s call to all humanity to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. This call is extended to everyone without exception, showing the boundless generosity of God’s love and mercy.
2. Human Response: The varied responses to the king’s invitation illustrate how people react to God’s call. Some ignore it, others outright reject it, while some accept but do not take it seriously.
3. Readiness and Preparation: The wedding clothes symbolize the righteousness and the new life we are called to embrace as followers of Christ. The man without wedding clothes represents those who respond to God’s call but do not prepare themselves adequately by living according to God’s will.
4. Divine Judgment: The king’s inspection of the guests and the expulsion of the unprepared guest remind us that entry into the Kingdom of Heaven requires more than just an initial positive response; it necessitates a life transformed by grace and committed to the teachings of Christ.

The phrase “Many are called, but few are chosen” underscores the reality that while God’s call is extended to all, being chosen requires a wholehearted response and a genuine transformation. It is a call to live out our faith with integrity, humility, and love, recognizing that our participation in the divine banquet is both a gift and a responsibility.

As we ponder these words of Jesus, let us ask ourselves how we are responding to God’s call. Are we preparing ourselves with the “wedding clothes” of righteousness and holiness? Are we living out our faith in a way that reflects our commitment to Christ and His teachings? Let us embrace the invitation with joy and seriousness, knowing that through God’s grace, we can be among those who are chosen.

Summary:

• The phrase concludes the Parable of the Wedding Feast (Matthew 22:14).
• It represents God’s universal call to all humanity to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.
• The varied responses highlight the importance of readiness and genuine transformation.
• It emphasizes living out our faith with integrity, humility, and love.

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How Do Theologians Interpret the Phrase “Many Are Called, Few Are Chosen”?

The phrase “Many are called, but few are chosen” has prompted deep reflection and varied interpretations among theologians. This exploration helps us understand the interplay between divine grace and human response in the journey of faith.

1. Divine Sovereignty and Grace:

Some theologians, particularly from the Reformed tradition, emphasize God’s sovereignty and grace. They suggest that while God’s call to salvation is extended to many, only a few are chosen according to His divine will. This view highlights the mystery of God’s grace and the reality that our salvation is ultimately a gift from God, not something we can earn.

2. Human Free Will and Responsibility:

Other theologians stress the role of human free will and responsibility. They argue that God’s call is genuinely universal and that being chosen depends on how individuals respond to this call. This interpretation emphasizes the necessity of repentance, faith, and a commitment to living according to God’s commandments. It calls us to actively participate in our salvation through our choices and actions.

3. The Church and the Sacraments:

In Catholic theology, the phrase is often understood within the context of the Church and the sacraments. The Church teaches that through the sacraments, particularly baptism, all are called to be part of the Body of Christ. However, being chosen entails a deeper commitment to living out the sacramental grace received. It involves ongoing conversion and fidelity to the teachings of the Church.

4. Continuous Conversion and Holiness:

Contemporary theologians often emphasize the need for continuous conversion and holiness. They see the phrase as a call to ongoing transformation, where being chosen is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey of growing closer to God. This perspective resonates with the teachings of Pope Francis, who frequently speaks about the importance of a dynamic and living faith, characterized by mercy, compassion, and a commitment to justice.

In all these interpretations, a common thread emerges: the call to respond to God’s invitation with a sincere and transformed heart. It reminds us that while God’s grace is freely given, our response to that grace must be one of active faith and commitment.

As we reflect on this phrase, let us be mindful of how we are living out our call to be disciples of Christ. Are we embracing God’s grace and allowing it to transform our lives? Are we committed to the path of continuous conversion and holiness? Let us seek to be among those who are not only called but also chosen, living out our faith with integrity and love.

Summary:

• Theologians offer varied interpretations, emphasizing divine grace and human response.
• Some highlight God’s sovereignty and the mystery of grace.
• Others focus on human free will and the necessity of repentance and faith.
• Contemporary views emphasize continuous conversion and holiness.

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What Does It Mean to Be “Called” According to the Bible?

In the Bible, being “called” signifies an invitation from God to enter into a relationship with Him and to participate in His divine mission. This concept is richly woven throughout Scripture, highlighting both the universality of God’s call and the personal response it requires.

1. Universal Call to Salvation:

The Bible reveals that God’s call to salvation is extended to all humanity. In the Old Testament, the prophets often spoke of God’s call to His people, inviting them to return to Him and live according to His covenant. Isaiah 55:1-3, for example, is a beautiful invitation from God to come and receive His blessings freely. In the New Testament, Jesus extends this call through His teachings and parables, emphasizing that the Kingdom of Heaven is open to all who respond with faith.

2. Personal Call to Discipleship:

Being called also has a personal dimension. Jesus’ call to His disciples is a prime example of this. When Jesus called Peter, Andrew, James, and John, He invited them to leave their former lives and follow Him (Matthew 4:18-22). This call to discipleship was not merely an invitation to follow a set of teachings but to enter into a personal relationship with Jesus, to learn from Him, and to be transformed by His love.

3. Call to Holiness and Mission:

The call of God includes an invitation to holiness and participation in His mission. In the Epistles, Paul frequently speaks about being called to holiness. For instance, in 1 Thessalonians 4:7, Paul writes, “For God did not call us to impurity but in holiness.” This call to holiness is a call to live in a manner worthy of God’s Kingdom, reflecting His love and grace in our lives.

4. Call to Serve and Love:

Being called also means being invited to serve others and to live out the love of Christ. In the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus illustrates that our call includes loving our neighbors as ourselves and acting with compassion and mercy. This call to service is an essential aspect of Christian life, as we are called to be instruments of God’s love in the world.

In essence, to be “called” in the biblical sense is to receive an invitation from God that encompasses salvation, discipleship, holiness, and service. It is a call to enter into a transformative relationship with God and to participate in His redemptive work in the world.

As we consider our own call, let us reflect on how we are responding to God’s invitation. Are we embracing the fullness of this call in our lives, striving to live in holiness, and serving others with love? Let us seek to respond to God’s call with open hearts, allowing His grace to transform us and guide us in His mission.

Summary:

• Being “called” signifies God’s invitation to a relationship and His mission.
• It includes a universal call to salvation and a personal call to discipleship.
• It involves a call to holiness, reflecting God’s love and grace.
• It encompasses a call to serve others and live out Christ’s love.

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What Does It Mean to Be “Chosen” According to the Bible?

Being “chosen” in the Bible refers to being selected by God for a specific purpose, mission, or relationship. This concept is rooted in God’s sovereignty and grace and carries significant implications for those who are chosen.

1. Chosen by Grace:

Throughout Scripture, the idea of being chosen is closely linked to God’s grace. In the Old Testament, Israel is described as God’s chosen people, not because of their own merits but because of God’s love and promise (Deuteronomy 7:6-8). This election by grace is a foundational theme, emphasizing that God’s choice is an act of divine love and favor.

2. Chosen for Mission:

Being chosen often entails being set apart for a particular mission or purpose. In the New Testament, the apostles were chosen by Jesus to be His closest followers and to carry out His mission (John 15:16). This choice involved a call to witness, to preach the Gospel, and to serve others in the name

of Christ. The chosen are not just recipients of God’s favor but also participants in His redemptive plan.

3. Chosen for Holiness:

The call to be chosen includes a call to holiness and sanctification. Paul writes to the Ephesians, “He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before Him” (Ephesians 1:4). This verse highlights that being chosen involves a transformation into the likeness of Christ, living a life that reflects God’s holiness and righteousness.

4. Chosen for Community:

Being chosen also places individuals within a community of believers. Peter writes, “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His own possession” (1 Peter 2:9). This collective aspect of being chosen underscores that God’s selection brings individuals into a communal identity with a shared purpose of declaring His praises and living out His Kingdom values.

5. Chosen Amidst Challenges:

The biblical narrative also shows that being chosen does not exempt one from trials and challenges. Joseph, chosen by God to save his family and many others, endured great suffering before fulfilling his purpose (Genesis 37-50). Similarly, the apostles faced persecution and martyrdom. Being chosen often involves a path marked by both divine purpose and human hardship.

To be chosen, therefore, is a profound and humbling experience. It is a call to embrace God’s grace, to participate in His mission, to pursue holiness, to join a community of faith, and to faithfully endure the challenges that come with this divine selection.

As we reflect on what it means to be chosen, let us consider how we are living out this calling in our own lives. Are we embracing the grace, mission, holiness, community, and perseverance that being chosen entails? Let us seek to live as God’s chosen people, faithful to His purpose and transformed by His love.

Summary:

• Being chosen involves being selected by God for a specific purpose or relationship.
• It is an act of divine grace, not based on human merit.
• It includes a call to mission, holiness, and participation in God’s redemptive plan.
• It places individuals within a community of believers and often involves enduring challenges.

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How Does the Concept of Being “Chosen” Relate to God’s Grace and Salvation?

The concept of being “chosen” is deeply intertwined with the themes of God’s grace and salvation, revealing the profound depths of God’s love and mercy. It highlights the dynamic relationship between divine initiative and human response in the journey of faith.

1. Grace as the Foundation:

At the heart of being chosen is the unmerited grace of God. Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” This grace is the foundation upon which our chosenness is built. It is God’s initiative, His loving call to us, that draws us into a relationship with Him. We are chosen not because of our merits, but because of His infinite love and mercy.

2. Salvation as a Gift:

Salvation is presented in the Bible as a gift that stems from God’s grace. Being chosen by God means being invited to receive this gift of salvation. Romans 8:29-30 speaks of God’s predestining work, “For those whom He foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son… and those whom He predestined He also called, and those whom He called He also justified, and those whom He justified He also glorified.” This passage shows the seamless connection between being chosen and the process of salvation, culminating in glorification with Christ.

3. Transformation Through Grace:

Being chosen involves a transformation that is made possible through God’s grace. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, Paul writes, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” This transformation is both a privilege and a responsibility. As chosen people, we are called to live lives that reflect the grace we have received, embodying the love, compassion, and holiness of God.

4. A Call to Mission:

Our chosenness also entails a call to mission. Just as Jesus chose the apostles to carry out His work on earth, so too are we chosen to be His hands and feet in the world. Matthew 28:19-20, the Great Commission, extends this mission to all believers, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them… teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” Being chosen means actively participating in God’s redemptive mission.

5. Assurance and Hope:

The concept of being chosen provides believers with assurance and hope. Knowing that we are chosen by God, loved and called by Him, gives us confidence in our salvation. It reassures us of His constant presence and His commitment to bring His work in us to completion (Philippians 1:6).

As we contemplate the relationship between being chosen, God’s grace, and salvation, let us be filled with gratitude and a renewed commitment to live out our calling with faithfulness and joy. Let us embrace the gift of salvation with humility and allow God’s grace to transform us, guiding us in our mission to share His love with the world.

Summary:

• Being chosen is rooted in God’s unmerited grace.
• Salvation is a gift that flows from God’s grace and our chosenness.
• Transformation through grace is a key aspect of being chosen.
• Being chosen involves a call to mission and provides assurance and hope.

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What Are Some Common Misconceptions About Matthew 22:14?

The phrase “Many are called, but few are chosen” (Matthew 22:14) often leads to various misconceptions that can obscure its true meaning. These misunderstandings can arise from cultural, theological, and personal interpretations that do not align with the broader biblical context or the intentions of Jesus’ teaching.

1. Divine Favoritism:

One common misconception is that the phrase suggests divine favoritism, where God arbitrarily chooses some individuals for salvation while excluding others. This interpretation can lead to the belief that God’s love and invitation are limited. However, the parable of the wedding feast, where this phrase appears, illustrates God’s inclusive call to all humanity. The king’s invitation is extended to everyone, symbolizing God’s desire for all to be part of His Kingdom. The distinction between those called and those chosen highlights human responsibility in responding to God’s invitation.

2. Predestination Without Human Agency:

Another misconception is that the phrase supports a deterministic view of predestination, where human free will plays no role in salvation. Some might interpret “few are chosen” to mean that only a predestined group will be saved, regardless of their actions or choices. However, the parable emphasizes the importance of individual response and preparedness. The man without wedding clothes, who is cast out, represents those who fail to live out their faith authentically and responsibly.

3. Superficial Acceptance:

A further misunderstanding is the idea that merely accepting the invitation is sufficient for being chosen. This view overlooks the necessity of a genuine and transformative acceptance of God’s call. The wedding garment in the parable symbolizes the righteousness and new life that believers must embrace. Being chosen involves more than just an initial acceptance; it requires ongoing commitment and a life that reflects the values of the Kingdom of Heaven.

4. Exclusivity of the Call:

Some believe that the call itself is exclusive, limited to a specific group or chosen people. However, the parable underscores the universal nature of God’s call. The invitation is extended to “both good and bad,” indicating that everyone is invited to participate in God’s Kingdom. The challenge lies in how individuals respond to this call, whether they prepare themselves adequately to be part of the divine banquet.

5. Misinterpretation of Readiness:

Finally, there is a misconception about what it means to be prepared or worthy of the invitation. Some might interpret the wedding clothes literally, missing the symbolic meaning. The wedding garment represents a life transformed by God’s grace, characterized by righteousness and obedience. It is not about external appearances but about the inner transformation and commitment to live according to God’s will.

Understanding these misconceptions helps us grasp the true message of Jesus in Matthew 22:14. It calls us to a sincere and wholehearted response to God’s universal invitation, emphasizing the need for a life that reflects His grace and righteousness.

Summary:

• Misconception of divine favoritism overlooks God’s universal call.
• Predestination without human agency ignores the importance of individual response.
• Superficial acceptance neglects the necessity of ongoing commitment and transformation.
• Belief in the exclusivity of the call disregards the universal invitation.
• Literal interpretation of readiness misses the symbolic meaning of righteousness and inner transformation.

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How Do Different Christian Denominations Interpret the Phrase “Many Are Called, Few Are Chosen”?

Christian denominations offer diverse interpretations of “Many are called, but few are chosen,” reflecting their theological frameworks and understandings of salvation, grace, and human responsibility.

1. Roman Catholic Interpretation:

The Catholic Church teaches that while God’s call to salvation is universal, being chosen involves a personal response to God’s grace, often mediated through the sacraments. Catholics believe that through baptism, individuals are initiated into the Christian community and receive sanctifying grace. However, remaining in a state of grace requires ongoing conversion and adherence to the teachings of the Church. The phrase emphasizes the necessity of living a life of holiness and participating in the sacramental life of the Church.

2. Eastern Orthodox Interpretation:

The Eastern Orthodox Church shares similarities with Catholicism, emphasizing the synergy between divine grace and human free will. Orthodoxy teaches that God’s call is extended to all, but being chosen involves a continuous process of theosis, or becoming more like God through cooperation with His grace. This process is facilitated by the sacramental life, prayer, and ascetic practices. The phrase underscores the importance of spiritual vigilance and the pursuit of holiness.

3. Protestant Interpretations:

Within Protestantism, interpretations vary significantly:

• Reformed Tradition (Calvinism): Calvinists interpret the phrase through the doctrine of predestination, where God, in His sovereignty, has chosen the elect for salvation. This choice is not based on human merit but solely on God’s will. The call to salvation is extended broadly, but only the elect respond positively and are ultimately saved.
• Arminian Tradition: Arminians emphasize human free will and the universal scope of God’s call. They believe that while God calls everyone to salvation, individuals must freely choose to accept this call. Being chosen depends on one’s response to God’s grace, highlighting the role of human responsibility in the salvation process.
• Evangelical and Baptist Traditions: These traditions often emphasize personal conversion and a decision for Christ. They teach that many are called through the preaching of the Gospel, but being chosen involves an individual’s decision to accept Jesus as Savior and Lord. This acceptance leads to a transformed life and active discipleship.

4. Anglican Interpretation:

The Anglican tradition offers a balanced view, recognizing both God’s sovereignty and human responsibility. Anglicans affirm that God calls all people to salvation, but individuals must respond through faith and obedience. The phrase highlights the seriousness of discipleship and the need for a life reflective of one’s faith commitment.

These interpretations all emphasize the importance of a sincere and committed response to God’s call. The phrase “Many are called, but few are chosen” challenges believers to examine their own faith journey and ensure that they are living in accordance with God’s will.

Summary:

• Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions emphasize synergy between grace and free will, requiring ongoing conversion.
• Reformed tradition focuses on predestination, with God choosing the elect.
• Arminian tradition highlights universal call and human free will.
• Evangelical and Baptist traditions emphasize personal conversion and decision for Christ.
• Anglican tradition balances God’s sovereignty and human responsibility.

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What Do Church Fathers Say About the Meaning of Matthew 22:14?

Saint John Chrysostom, in his homilies on Matthew, reminds us that this saying comes at the end of the parable of the wedding feast. He explains that the “many” who are called refers to all those invited to partake in God’s kingdom, while the “few” who are chosen are those who respond wholeheartedly to that invitation(Chrysostom, 2004). Chrysostom emphasizes that God’s call goes out to all, but not all accept it or live up to its demands. He writes, “For the calling was of grace; wherefore then doth He punish? Because even after the calling and so great an honor, they still continued evil.”(Chrysostom, 2004)

Saint Augustine, in his reflections on predestination and grace, sees in this verse a reminder of God’s mysterious election. He teaches that while the call of the gospel goes out to many, it is God who ultimately chooses and predestines some for salvation(Augustine, 2002). Yet Augustine is careful to affirm human responsibility, writing that those who are not chosen “perish against the will of God, that God cannot be said to have made death”(Augustine, 2002).

Origen offers an interesting perspective, suggesting that there are different levels of being “called” and “chosen.” He writes that one can be “called to be an apostle” but not necessarily “chosen to be an apostle,” using the example of Judas(Augustine, 1968). This reminds us of the ongoing nature of our response to God’s call.

The Church Fathers consistently emphasize both God’s universal call of grace and the necessity of human response. They warn against presumption, reminding us that being “called” through baptism or membership in the Church is not a guarantee of final salvation. As Saint Cyril of Alexandria puts it, “Not all Israelites truly belong to Israel—rather, the children of the promise are reckoned as offspring”(Jerome, 2010).

In all of this, dear friends, we see a tension between God’s sovereign choice and human free will. The Fathers do not fully resolve this mystery, but they call us to trust in God’s justice and mercy, to respond generously to His call, and to persevere in faith. Let us be grateful for God’s call in our lives and strive to be among the “chosen” through our faithful response to His grace.

How Do Biblical Scholars Reconcile the Concept of “Many Are Called, Few Are Chosen” with the Idea of God’s Universal Love and Desire for All to Be Saved?

First, we must affirm without hesitation that God truly desires the salvation of all people. As Saint Paul writes to Timothy, God “desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Tim 2:4). This universal salvific will of God is a fundamental truth of our faith(Placher, 2015). The challenge is to understand how this relates to Jesus’ words about the “few” who are chosen.

Many scholars emphasize that the parable of the wedding feast, which concludes with this saying, is not meant to specify the number of saved versus damned. Rather, it highlights the importance of responding to God’s invitation and living according to it(Chrysostom, 2004). The “chosen” are those who not only hear the call but act upon it, clothing themselves in the garment of righteousness(Chrysostom, 2004).

Some theologians, like Karl Barth, have proposed that in Christ, everyone has been chosen, whether they know it or not. However, this view faces biblical and logical challenges(Bray, 2014). It’s important to maintain both God’s universal offer of salvation and the reality of human freedom to accept or reject it.

Other scholars point out that the concepts of “calling” and “choosing” in Scripture are complex. There are different levels of calling and choosing, from the general call that goes out to all, to the specific vocations of individuals, to the final choosing of those who persevere in faith(Augustine, 1968; Chrysostom, 2004). This multi-layered understanding can help us see that God’s call is indeed universal, even if not all respond in the same way.

We must also consider the pastoral context of Jesus’ teaching. His words about the “few” chosen may be meant to challenge complacency and encourage earnest striving in the spiritual life, rather than to make a definitive statement about the number of saved(Chrysostom, 2004).

Ultimately, dear friends, we must hold in tension the truth of God’s universal love and the reality of human freedom. God’s grace is offered to all, but it does not override our free will. As the Catechism teaches, “To God, all moments of time are present in their immediacy. When therefore he establishes his eternal plan of ‘predestination’, he includes in it each person’s free response to his grace” (CCC 600).

Let us trust in the vastness of God’s mercy while also taking seriously our responsibility to respond to His call. May we live in such a way that we encourage others to recognize and accept God’s invitation to salvation. And let us always remember that the final judgment belongs to God alone, whose love and wisdom far exceed our understanding.

What Role Does Free Will Play in the Concept of Being “Called” and “Chosen”?

First, we must affirm that free will is a precious gift from God, an essential part of what it means to be created in His image. As the Catechism reminds us, “Freedom is the power, rooted in reason and will, to act or not to act, to do this or that, and so to perform deliberate actions on one’s own responsibility” (CCC 1731)(McBrien, 1994, n.d.). This freedom is fundamental to our dignity as human persons and to our capacity to love God and neighbor.

In the context of being “called” and “chosen,” free will plays a crucial role. God’s call goes out to all – it is universal and unconditional. As we see in the parable of the wedding feast, the invitation is extended widely(Bray, 2014; Placher, 2015). But our free will comes into play in how we respond to that call. Do we accept the invitation? Do we put on the wedding garment? Do we live according to the demands of the gospel?

The Church Fathers, in their wisdom, recognized this interplay between divine grace and human freedom. Saint Augustine, who reflected deeply on these matters, insisted that while God’s grace is necessary for salvation, it does not override our free will. He wrote, “He who created you without you will not justify you without you”(Parsons, 2014). Our cooperation with grace is essential.

At the same time, we must be careful not to fall into the error of Pelagianism, which overemphasizes human ability at the expense of divine grace. Our free will has been weakened by sin, and we are in constant need of God’s grace to choose the good(Placher, 2015). As Saint Paul reminds us, “it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13).

Being “chosen,” in the biblical sense, is not about God arbitrarily selecting some and rejecting others. Rather, it refers to those who, by God’s grace and their own free response, persevere in faith and love(Bray, 2014). Our free will plays a role in this process of sanctification, as we continually choose to cooperate with God’s grace in our lives.

Dear friends, let us remember that our freedom finds its fullest expression not in doing whatever we want, but in freely choosing to love God and follow His will. As Saint Augustine beautifully put it, true freedom is not the ability to sin, but the blessed inability to sin that comes from being so firmly rooted in God’s love that we no longer want to turn away from Him(History Of The Christian Church Complete Eight Volumes In One, n.d.).

In our daily lives, let us exercise our free will in responding generously to God’s call. Let us choose, again and again, to put on the wedding garment of righteousness, to live according to the gospel, and to love God and neighbor. And let us do so with humility, always aware of our need for God’s grace and mercy.

May the Holy Spirit guide us in using our freedom well, that we may be both “called” and “chosen” in Christ, to the glory of God the Father. Amen.