Chapter 4: Calling and Mission

The first three chapters explored calling in the Bible, the meaning of life, and character formation. This chapter asks further questions: How do those who have received grace fulfil what has been entrusted to them? How do individuals and the church respond together, and bring the truth they have received into ministry, family life, and work?

All of this rests on God’s grace. Paul explains that God saved believers and called them with a holy calling, not according to their works but according to His purpose and grace. This grace was revealed through the appearing of our Saviour, Christ Jesus (2 Timothy 1:9–10). We cannot earn God’s acceptance by fulfilling a mission. Good works and service are responses to salvation already received; God also continues to renew and help us as we respond.

This chapter will distinguish everyday responsibilities from the gospel commission entrusted to the church as a whole. It will explore how the church builds up believers and helps them work together, and how leaders use authority and resources appropriately. Responsibilities in family life and work, and the mission of proclaiming Christ and making disciples, each have their own specific content and requirements. As we follow the Lord, we need to carry out faithfully what has been entrusted to us.

Calling, the shaping of our lives, and living out our mission are interwoven throughout a believer’s life. We do not have to wait until we are fully mature before beginning to serve, but we need to take on appropriate responsibilities in light of our abilities and actual circumstances. Nor should we assume that we no longer need renewal simply because we already carry responsibilities. We rely on God, while also preparing carefully, learning, and working with others, entrusting to Him the results we cannot control.

This chapter approaches its subject through six areas: the individual Christian, the church, the relationship between calling and mission, the mission of the gospel, family life and the workplace, and leadership. These will help us understand how to remain faithful to the Lord, care for others, and give glory to God in our present circumstances.