Unveiling the Word

In biblical studies, understanding the Greek word κλῆσις (klēsis) is vital as it opens up a deeper comprehension of concepts related to calling, invitation, and divine purpose. This word is particularly significant in the New Testament because it emphasizes God’s sovereign act of calling individuals to salvation, service, or a specific mission. It is a term rich with theological meaning, reflecting both the cultural practice of invitation and a profound spiritual vocation in ancient Greek culture and early Christian communities.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: κλῆσις, transliterated as klēsis [KLAY-sis].

Etymology: The word κλῆσις comes from the root verb καλέω (kaleō), which means “to call” or “to invite.” The noun form κλῆσις specifically denotes the act of calling or the invitation itself. It is closely related to terms used in legal, social, and religious contexts in ancient Greece, where a “calling” could mean a formal summons, a personal invitation, or a divine mandate.

Part of Speech: Noun (feminine). As a noun, κλῆσις follows a specific declension pattern in Greek grammar, which affects its form based on case, number, and gender. It is a feminine noun of the third declension.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

1. A Calling or Invitation: The primary meaning of κλῆσις is “a calling” or “an invitation.” It is often used to denote God’s call to individuals, inviting them to partake in His divine plan or kingdom.
2. A Divine Summons: In a theological context, κλῆσις refers to a divine summons, particularly the call to salvation and eternal life that God extends to humanity.
3. A Vocational Calling: Beyond salvation, κλῆσις can also imply a calling to a specific role or vocation within the Christian community, such as ministry, apostleship, or another form of service.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Καλέω (kaleō) [ka-LEH-oh]: This is the root verb meaning “to call” or “to invite.” While κλῆσις focuses on the act or state of being called, καλέω emphasizes the action of calling itself.
2. Προσκαλέομαι (proskaleomai) [pros-ka-LEH-oh-my]: This verb means “to call to oneself.” It carries a more personal connotation of summoning someone to be near or in fellowship.
3. Πρόσκλησις (prosklēsis) [PROS-klee-sis]: This word means “an invitation” and is often used in a social or community context rather than a divine calling.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender:
Κλῆσις is a feminine noun of the third declension. It can appear in various cases depending on its syntactic function in a sentence.

• Nominative Singular: κλῆσις (subject)
• Genitive Singular: κλήσεως (of the calling)
• Dative Singular: κλήσει (to/for the calling)
• Accusative Singular: κλῆσιν (object)
• Nominative Plural: κλήσεις (callings)

Declension Table:

For more information on Greek grammar, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

In the New Testament, κλῆσις is often used to denote God’s irrevocable call to believers, as seen in Romans 11:29: “For the gifts and the calling [κλῆσις] of God are without repentance.” Lexicons highlight its use in different contexts, such as divine invitation, vocational calling, and the theological concept of predestination. In classical contexts, κλῆσις can refer to an official summons or call to a gathering, showing the word’s versatility across both religious and secular domains. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Romans 11:29: “For the gifts and the calling [κλῆσις] of God are irrevocable.”
2. 1 Corinthians 1:26: “For consider your calling [κλῆσις], brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth.”
3. Ephesians 4:1: “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling [κλῆσις] to which you have been called.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word κλῆσις is a profound term that underpins many New Testament teachings about divine calling and purpose. It is a term that moves beyond mere invitation to signify a deep, divine summons that requires a response, often resulting in a transformed life. Its usage in classical texts also shows its flexibility in conveying both sacred and secular meanings.

Did You Know?

1. In ancient Greek society, a “calling” could also be a formal summons to court or assembly, not just a divine or personal invitation.
2. The New Testament uses κλῆσις primarily to denote God’s gracious call to salvation and holy living.
3. Romans 11:29 is a key verse emphasizing that God’s calling is “irrevocable,” highlighting the permanence of divine election and purpose.