Sermon Central
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Few Are Chosen
Contributed by Kenneth Trent on Nov 30, 2002 (message contributor)
Summary: This outline differentiates between the "called" of Matthew 22:14 and the "called" of Romans 8:30. In the Matthew passage, only a few of the many who were called responded to the invitation. In the Romans passage, all who are called become the children of
THE CHOSEN FEW
"For many are called, but few are chosen." Matthew 22:14
I. A NECESSARY CLARIFICATION OF TERMS:
It is important to distinguish between the "called" in Matthew 22:14 and the "called" in Romans 8:30.
The "called" in Romans 8:30 refers to those who, in God’s great purpose of redemption, are the beneficiaries of divine election. Here we see that all that were called were justified. "Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called: whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified."
The "called" in Matthew 22 refers to all who have been invited to "taste of the heavenly Gift" (Hebrews 6:4) only a few of whom accepted.
This sermon deals with the called of Matthew 22:14.
II. "FOR MANY ARE CALLED":
A. Unto salvation: "And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him who hears say, Come. And let him who is thirsty come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely”. Revelation 22:17.
B. Unto separation: "Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord, and I will receive you. I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.”
C. Unto service: "Come unto Me, all ye who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30.
III. "BUT FEW ARE CHOSEN."
The evidences of being "chosen" are:
A. saved
B. separated unto God
C. committed to His service.
"You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." I Peter 2:9.
"You also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ." I Peter 2:4.
"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works." Ephesians 2:10.
