2 Timothy 1:9
Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,
2 Timothy 1:9
This verse anchors salvation and calling in God’s initiative: it is not by our works but by God’s purpose and grace in Christ Jesus. The pre-temporal dimension (“before the world began”) emphasizes God’s sovereign plan and grace that precedes human action. The “holy calling” ties into a unique, set-apart vocation for service that remains grounded in Christ.
It centers grace as the foundation of salvation and vocation, preventing human boasting. The pre-temporal dimension links God’s eternal purposes to the present economy of grace revealed in Christ. The verse guards against a performance-based faith, instead pointing to divine initiative and purpose.
Rest in God’s choosing: your life and ministry are rooted in God’s gracious plan. Practice humility, acknowledging that gifts and opportunities are gifts from God. In daily life, reflect on how your job, family, or community involvement can serve God’s purposes. For those feeling inadequate, memorize and meditate on this truth: God called you by grace, not by your own merit, empowering you to walk in that calling.
Cross-References
- Ephesians 1:3-6
- Romans 9:11-16
- Titus 1:1
- Isaiah 46:10