Sayings

The saying 'Many are called, but few are chosen' is often misinterpreted. For example some may suggest that 'A lot of people attempt to achieve or attain something, but only a select few will actually be successful.' Or think, 'Our country is predicated upon the belief that any man or woman can find fortune if they simply work hard enough. Many are called, but few are chosen, though.'

The phrase is actually found in the New Testament, specifically in the book of Matthew. To understand its meaning, we must examine the context in which it appears. In Matthew 22:14 (ESV), Jesus says, "For many are called, but few are chosen." This statement is part of a parable called the Parable of the Wedding Feast.

In this parable, a king prepares a wedding feast for his son and sends out invitations to many guests. However, those who were invited made excuses and declined the invitation. The king then sends his servants to invite anyone they can find, both good and bad. The wedding hall is filled with guests, but the king notices one person who is not wearing wedding attire. When questioned, the unprepared guest is cast out. It is in this context that Jesus utters the phrase, emphasising the importance of being chosen as one who wears a true faith in Christ as your wedding garment.

We may ask who is actually doing the choosing; is it essentially  self selection that causes folk to be not chosen. There was a boy who did not have much athletic ability. Every time he and his friends would play some game, he was always the last to be chosen. One day two new fellows came to play with them and were allowed to be team captains because they were older. The first team captain chose the boy who had always been chosen last before. Why? Because they were brothers, and he loved his brother. So it is with God. He chose us not because of our abilities, but because he loves us.

When it comes to choice, Jesus was quite clear we should first seek the kingdom of God. William Law, suggests, 'If you have not chosen the Kingdom of God first, it will in the end make no difference what you have chosen instead.'

Gracious God,

in love You open wide the doors

and welcome us into Your presence—

saints and sinners alike.

You spread a table before us,

filled with the richest fare—

a feast of love and mercy

for the body and soul.

We come with joy to meet You here,

to eat and drink at Your table,

to taste and see Your goodness,

to celebrate Your grace and mercy in our lives.

May Your Spirit inspire our praise and thanksgiving,

our prayers and petitions

as we worship together in Your presence.

In the name of Jesus Christ, our host and Lord,

Amen.