These He Also Called

Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified. 

Romans 8:30 

God calls us to Christ. We are well aware of what we would refer to as the outward call of the gospel. This outward call arises from the preaching of Christ which occurs in various ways and under a multitude of circumstances. The gospel goes forth from believers to those around them. It is much broader than what we consider to be formal preaching. It is quite often a conversation between two people in which they discuss eternal matters. It happens in the midst of work, recreation, or social interaction. Believers bear witness of Christ and thus issue the gospel call. What Paul refers to in our text goes beyond the external call, although it includes it. The internal call, or effectual call, as theologians have called it, is what the Holy Spirit does to bring us to believe. We are dead in trespasses and sins. He regenerates us. He awakens us to our sinfulness and our need of Christ. He brings us to repentance. He gives us faith to believe the gospel. He effectually calls us to Christ. Thus, having predestined us from eternity, He calls us in time. We have no interest in Christ until the Holy Spirit does this work. Once He begins it, He continues it until the end. He has begun a good work in us. He will perform that work unto the day of Jesus Christ. We have heard the call and He has given us grace to respond.  

Our Glorious, Saving God, 
we rejoice at the way You effect our redemption. 
We praise You for the powerful work  
of Your Holy Spirit. 

Tomm Tice
Where the Bush is Burning