κλῆσις

a calling, summons

Definition

κλῆσις refers to a divine calling or summons, specifically God's invitation to salvation and service. In the New Testament, it consistently denotes God's gracious act of calling individuals into relationship with Himself and into the community of believers (e.g., Romans 11:29, Ephesians 4:1). This calling is irrevocable (Romans 11:29) and is to be lived out faithfully in one's current circumstances (1 Corinthians 7:20). It also points toward a future heavenly prize (Philippians 3:14) and unites all believers (Ephesians 4:4).

Biblical Usage

The word is used exclusively in the Pauline epistles, emphasizing God's initiative in salvation. It describes the status of being called (1 Corinthians 1:26), the need to live worthily of that call (Ephesians 4:1), and the unity it creates (Ephesians 4:4). Paul also connects it to Christian hope (Ephesians 1:18) and future fulfillment (Philippians 3:14). A key pattern is its use to ground ethical exhortation in one's divinely given identity.

Etymology

Derived from the verb καλέω (kaleō, G2564), meaning 'to call' or 'to summon.' κλῆσις is the noun form, denoting the act or result of calling. It shares a root with words like κλητός (klētos, G2822), 'called,' and ἐκκλησία (ekklēsia, G1577), 'assembly' or 'church,' which is literally 'the called-out ones.'

Semantic Range

This word is central to the doctrine of vocation and election. It underscores that salvation originates from God's gracious call, not human merit (1 Corinthians 1:26). Understanding κλῆσις enriches reading by highlighting the divine source of Christian identity, the unity of the church, and the basis for holy living—believers are to 'walk in a manner worthy of the calling' (Ephesians 4:1). It connects God's past action with present responsibility and future hope.

In the Greco-Roman world, a 'calling' (klēsis) could refer to a summons to office or an invitation to a social event. Paul theologically redefines this common term to signify a transcendent, divine summons that reorients one's entire life and social standing, contrasting with merely human invitations.

καλέω (kaleō, G2564) — the verb 'to call,' denoting the action. κλητός (klētos, G2822) — an adjective meaning 'called' or 'invited,' describing the person's status. ἐκλογή (eklogē, G1589) — 'election' or 'choice,' focusing more on God's selecting action.

Word Details

Scripture References