Speaker: Daniel Deininger
Date: February 14, 2026
Summary
This message centers on a profound biblical identity: God’s people are the “called out ones.” The term translated “church” in the New Testament, ekklesia (G1577), literally means an assembly called out. Those whom God calls are described as the “elect” (eklektos, G1599)—chosen, selected by God for a specific purpose.
Jesus declared in Matthew 24 that the days of great tribulation will be shortened “for the elect’s sake.” This underscores the seriousness and significance of God’s calling. Christ also said in Matthew 16:18 that He would build His Church—His assembly of called-out ones—and that the gates of the grave would not prevail against it. This Church is not man-made; it is built by Christ and composed of those called by the Father.
The sermon explores this calling through the example of Abraham. In Genesis 12, God called Abram out of his country, his family, and his father’s house to go to a land he did not know. This call required faith, obedience, and a willingness to sever deep personal ties. In exchange, God promised blessing: a great nation, a great name, and a covenant relationship. Abram’s name was later changed to Abraham, reflecting a new identity and divine purpose. Likewise, Revelation 3:12 shows that overcomers will receive a new name—signifying transformation and belonging in God’s eternal family.
God’s calling often involves being separated from worldly systems. Just as Lot was told to leave Sodom, and as God’s people are commanded in Revelation 18 to “come out” of end-time Babylon, believers today are called out of sin and spiritual confusion. This calling is initiated by God: Jesus taught in John 6:44 that no one can come to Him unless the Father draws him.
The appropriate response to this calling is repentance, baptism, and receiving the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38–39). Importantly, this promise extends not only to adults but also to their children. Scripture teaches that children of believing parents are “holy” (1 Corinthians 7:14)—set apart, consecrated, and included in God’s calling. They are not yet baptized or indwelt by the Spirit, but God’s Spirit works with them. They are part of the sanctified community and are being prepared to become saints.
Throughout the New Testament, believers are referred to as saints—holy ones set apart for God’s service. They are described as members of God’s household, the temple of God, and future participants in judging the world. This calling carries responsibility. Those who are part of God’s temple must not defile it, for it is holy.
The message concludes with reassurance and exhortation. God’s calling is part of a deliberate, gracious plan—“a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11). Believers are urged to trust in the Lord wholeheartedly (Proverbs 3:5–6), to stir up the gift of God within them, and not to be ashamed of the gospel (2 Timothy 1). This is a “holy calling,” rooted in God’s eternal purpose.
The central charge is clear: Do not take God’s calling for granted. Value it. Treasure being called out of this world. Recognize the immense privilege of being part of Christ’s Church—the called-out ones of God.
