“Many Are Called”
Matthew 22:14
The
statement that heads this page refers to the general call that goes forth to
all who hear the gospel. There is an inward, personal, particular, divine call,
which is issued by God the Holy Spirit to God’s elect and to them alone (John
10:3). This call of the Holy Spirit is always effectual and irresistible. By
that saving call, the Holy Spirit effectually draws chosen, redeemed sinners to
Christ by almighty grace (Ps. 65:4). This call always produces faith in Christ.
It always results in salvation. This inward, irresistible call is given only to
God’s elect, those who were chosen, predestinated, and redeemed (Rom.
Every time a true
servant of God preaches the gospel of God’s electing love, redeeming mercy, and
saving grace, sinners are called to faith in Christ (II Cor. 5:20). This
general call is universal in its scope. It is a sincere call (
The question is often asked, “If only God’s elect are going to be saved, why do we preach the gospel to all men?” Without entering into the controversies of men, let me give you four reasons why we preach the gospel to all men.
1.
Our Lord commands us to do so (Matt.
2.
The preaching of the gospel is God’s ordained means of
salvation for his elect (I Cor.
3. We have no way of knowing who the elect are until they believe the gospel (I Thess. 1:4-5).
4.
When we have faithfully preached the gospel to all men,
we are free of their blood (I Cor.
Sinners respond to the
preaching of the gospel in many ways. Some flatly reject the gospel call
(v. 3). Others lightly esteem it (v. 5; Lam.
Don Fortner