What is the high calling of God in Christ Jesus

    “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 3:14 (KJV)

       The saying “the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” expresses one of the deepest spiritual truths in the New Testament. It captures the essence of the Christian journey: a pursuit of God’s purpose, holiness, and eternal destiny through Jesus Christ. To understand this calling is to understand the goal of the Christian life — not just to be saved from sin, but to live in the fullness of God’s will and ultimately be united with Him in eternity.

1. What Is the High Calling?

      The “high calling” (or “upward call,” as some translations put it) refers to God’s divine invitation for believers to rise above earthly living and pursue a life rooted in Christ. It is high in origin — it comes from heaven. It is high in purpose — it is God’s own plan for our lives. And it is high in destiny — it ends with eternal life and fellowship with God.

      This call begins the moment a person accepts Christ. It is not merely about receiving salvation, but about growing into maturity, fulfilling one’s God-given assignment, and ultimately being conformed to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29).

2. The Pursuit of the Prize

       Paul describes the Christian life as a race, with a clear target in mind — “the prize.” This prize is not earthly success or temporary pleasure. It is the reward that comes from faithfulness, perseverance, and obedience to God’s call. Paul says, “I press toward the mark...” indicating ongoing effort. The high calling requires intentionality, focus, and sacrifice. It is a lifelong pursuit.

       In Philippians 3, Paul recounts how he left behind his former life — all his achievements and religious credentials — to know Christ. He realized that everything else was worthless compared to gaining Christ and being found in Him (Philippians 3:7-11). This mindset is essential for anyone answering the high calling: leaving behind worldly attachments to embrace the purposes of God.

3. God’s Purpose Through the Call

       The high calling is not about status or recognition but about being and doing what God designed us for. Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”

       Every believer has a unique role in God’s Kingdom. The high calling is both corporate (a call to holiness, service, and worship) and personal (God’s specific plan for your life). It involves:

● Living a life of purity and righteousness (1 Thessalonians 4:7)

● Sharing the Gospel and making disciples (Matthew 28:19-20)

● Walking in love and humility (Ephesians 4:1-3)

● Serving others with spiritual gifts (Romans 12:6-8)

● Remaining faithful to the end (Revelation 2:10)

4. Challenges in the Journey

       While the high calling is glorious, it is not without challenges. The road to spiritual maturity is narrow and often marked by trials, opposition, and personal sacrifice. Jesus warned, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23).

       Paul’s life exemplified this. He faced persecution, imprisonment, and hardships, yet he kept pressing forward. The high calling demands that we press on — not in our strength, but by the grace of God.

5. Encouragement for Believers

       If you are a believer in Christ, you have already been called. The question is: Are you walking worthy of that calling? (Ephesians 4:1). God does not call us because we are qualified; He qualifies those He calls. He gives strength, wisdom, and grace to complete the race.

       Remember that the ultimate prize is eternal fellowship with God, a crown of righteousness, and hearing the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21).

Prayer Points:

1. Lord, help me understand and respond to Your high calling in my life.

2. Give me the grace to press on and not be distracted by worldly things.

3. Strengthen me to endure challenges as I pursue Your purpose for me.

4. Mold me into the image of Christ and use me for Your glory.

5. May I finish my race and receive the eternal reward You have prepared.