Many Are Called, But Few Are Chosen”

The Call of Many – God’s Open Invitation

The calling of God is open to many. In the ministry of Jesus, we see that He initially called a large group of disciples. According to Luke 10:1, Jesus appointed seventy others besides the twelve and sent them out in pairs:

“After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go.” (Luke 10:1, NKJV)

This shows that Jesus had a wider group of disciples beyond the twelve. People from various backgrounds—fishermen, tax collectors, ordinary men—were called to follow Him. They responded by leaving their old lives behind, embracing the first step of discipleship.

This reflects God’s general call to humanity to repent and follow Him.

“For many are called, but few are chosen.” (Matthew 22:14, NKJV)

2. The Choosing of a Few – God’s Sovereign Election

Later, from among the larger group, Jesus selected twelve apostles for a special role. This wasn’t because they were more qualified, more righteous, or more spiritual than the rest. It was a sovereign choice made in prayerful dependence on God:

“Now it came to pass in those days that He went out to the mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. And when it was day, He called His disciples to Himself; and from them He chose twelve whom He also named apostles.” (Luke 6:12-13, NKJV)

These men were chosen by grace, not merit. Theologically, this reflects the concept of divine election—God’s sovereign choice rooted in His purpose and mercy.

“So then it is not of him who wills, nor of him who runs, but of God who shows mercy.” (Romans 9:16, NKJV)

Grace is unearned favor. Unlike “luck,” which may imply randomness, grace chooses the unworthy for God’s purposes.

3. Election Is Not Immunity – The Danger of Falling Away

Being chosen doesn’t guarantee that one will finish well. Among the twelve chosen apostles was Judas Iscariot—who later betrayed Jesus. His story is a sobering warning that election requires perseverance.

“Have I not chosen you, the twelve, and one of you is a devil?” (John 6:70, NKJV)

“Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.” (Acts 1:25, NKJV)

Despite being called and empowered, Judas allowed sin to creep in. He began stealing (John 12:6), became greedy, and eventually betrayed Jesus. Yet Jesus didn’t expel him—He let him continue until the end, emphasizing how subtle spiritual decline can be.

4. A Warning for the Elect – Deception in the Last Days

Jesus warned that in the last days, even those chosen could be deceived if they are not watchful.

“For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.” (Matthew 24:24, NKJV)

This means that even the elect must remain vigilant. Salvation is not a one-time event, but a journey that requires steadfastness.

5. The Privilege of Knowing the Mysteries – A Call to Responsibility

Jesus often spoke to the crowds in parables, but to His disciples, He revealed the deeper truths.

“It has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given.” (Matthew 13:11, NKJV)

If you are receiving and understanding the deeper things of God’s Word, it is a sign of God’s grace upon your life. But with this grace comes great responsibility—to remain faithful, discerning, and obedient.

6. Strengthening Your Calling and Election

Peter gives us the formula for enduring in our calling:

“Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble.” (2 Peter 1:10, NKJV)

Practical steps to make your calling and election sure:

• Stay grounded in God’s Word
• Guard your heart from compromise
• Remain humble and prayerful
• Pursue holiness and spiritual growth
• Be alert to deception and false teachings

Conclusion: Finish Well

You may have responded to the call of God with sincerity. Perhaps you’ve even walked closely with Jesus. But like Judas, it’s possible to grow too familiar with the Word, to let the world’s desires in, and to end up spiritually lost.

God won’t force you to stay. He will walk with you in grace, but your choices will determine your end.

“It would have been good for that man if he had not been born.” (Matthew 26:24, NKJV – about Judas)

This is not to instill fear, but urgency. You are called. You may even be chosen. But will you remain faithful to the end?

Let us strive to finish well—holding fast to grace, resisting temptation, and growing in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

“He who endures to the end shall be saved.” (Matthew 24:13, NKJV)

Shalom

Print this post