The Greek word klētós, represented by G2822, is defined as invited, i.e. appointed, or (specially), a saint:--called. It appears 11 times across 11 unique verses in the Bible. This term signifies a specific, divine invitation or appointment, identifying those who have been summoned by God for a particular purpose or status.
In scripture, G2822 is used to denote both a general invitation and a specific appointment. It describes a universal call, as in the parables where Jesus states, "many are called, but few are chosen" Matthew 22:14. It is also used to identify a specific office, such as when Paul introduces himself as "called to be an apostle" (Romans 1:1; 1 Corinthians 1:1). The term further defines the identity of believers, who are referred to as "the called of Jesus Christ" Romans 1:6 and are "called to be saints" (Romans 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:2). This calling is according to God's own design, for "them who are the called according to his purpose" Romans 8:28.
Several related words help clarify the nature and context of this divine call:
- G652 apóstolos (a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the Gospel; officially a commissioner of Christ ("apostle")): This term defines a specific office to which one can be called. Paul's identity is directly tied to this, being "called to be an apostle" Romans 1:1.
- G37 hagiázō (to make holy, i.e. (ceremonially) purify or consecrate): This word describes the state of those who have been called. The church in Corinth is addressed as "them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints" 1 Corinthians 1:2, and Jude writes to those who are "sanctified by God the Father... and called" Jude 1:1.
- G25 agapáō (to love (in a social or moral sense)): This describes a characteristic of the called. They are identified as "them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose" Romans 8:28.
The theological weight of G2822 is significant, establishing key concepts about God's salvific work.
- Divine Appointment: The term goes beyond a simple invitation to imply a specific, purposeful appointment by God. This is seen in Paul being "called to be an apostle" 1 Corinthians 1:1 and in believers being the "called according to his purpose" Romans 8:28.
- A New Identity: Being "called" confers a new status and identity upon believers. They are identified as "the called of Jesus Christ" Romans 1:6, distinguishing them as belonging to Him. In the end, it is the "called, and chosen, and faithful" who are with the Lamb Revelation 17:14.
- The Nature of the Call: Scripture uses G2822 to differentiate between a general summons and an effective, saving call. The statement that "many be called, but few chosen" Matthew 20:16 establishes a foundational distinction in the application of God's call to humanity.
In summary, G2822 is a crucial term that defines the act of God's sovereign summons. It is not merely an open invitation but an appointment that confers a new identity, purpose, and destiny. Whether designating an apostle for a specific mission or a saint for holy living, klētós underscores that a believer's position is initiated and defined by the authoritative call of God Himself.
TRV