“Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling…” (Hebrews 3:1).
Because the word “calling” has several different ways it is used in the New Testament, this phrase contains several plausible meanings which are profitable for consideration.
The realization of God’s eternally purposed plan of salvation in Christ is fulfilled in the gospel. The divine feast of all spiritual blessings in Christ has been prepared; therefore, the message of the gospel is: “All things are ready; come to the feast.” In light of this wonderful truth, the “heavenly calling” may be a reference to God calling us to salvation by the gospel (2 Thessalonians 2:14).
God’s offer of salvation is received by obeying the gospel. The reception of God’s offer occurs when a penitent believer—like Saul of Tarsus—arises and is baptized, calling on the name of the Lord (Acts 22:16). In light of the wonderful truth that “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Romans 10:13), the “heavenly calling” may be a reference to the day one answered heaven’s call and became a Christian by calling on the name of the Lord.
The path of Christianity is a narrow one because of its holiness. The grace of God instructs us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts and live soberly, righteously, and godly (Titus 2:11-12). The body of people preparing themselves for heaven are “holy brethren” and have received a “holy calling” (2 Timothy 1:9). They are to walk worthy of this calling (Ephesians 4:1). In light of this, the “heavenly calling” may be a reference to the final destination each of the redeemed will receive when he has fought the good fight, finished the course, and kept the faith (2 Timothy 4:7-8).
God calls us to accept His offer of salvation through the gospel. We answer His invitation by calling upon Him to save us when we obey the gospel. The eternal destination of those who are saved and called with a holy calling is heaven. Each component of this glorious plan of salvation can rightfully be termed the “heavenly calling”.
