Lesson #32—Benefits of Those Called

Shorter Catechism Q & A #32

Q. What benefits do they that are effectually called partake of in this life?

A. They that are effectually called do in this life partake of justification, adoption, and sanctification, and the several benefits which in this life do either accompany or flow from them.

Memorize Q & A— Exposition

To be effectually called brings with it benefits from the Triune God; the Lord God justifying us, predestinating us to be the Father’s adopted children (Eph. 1:5–7); sanctifying us in his image (Rom. 8:28–29); which we may call the ‘Preservation of the Saints.’

What does it mean?

What is the cause of our being effectually called? (Rom. 8:3)

What does it mean for us to be adopted? (Eph. 1:5)

What is man’s part in being effectually called? (1 Cor. 1:26, 30)

What are the distinguishing marks of those who are “effectually called”?

• 1 Thess. 2:11–13—our walk, the Word, our belief
• 1 Peter 2:9–10—characteristics of the people of God, from whence they were called, to where they were called
• James 2:5—poor made rich

“For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord will give grace and glory; no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.”—Psalm 84:11

What is our practice?

1. Our witness is strengthened, for only Christ is our salvation.
2. Our hearts are humbled in our testimony.
3. We become more obedient to God’s Word.
4. It gives us strength to fight off temptation.
5. We understand the work of grace and are able to give comfort to others as to the salvation of our souls.

Quotes for thought and discussion

“Are they dignified and preferred? Yes: Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, 1 Pet. 2:9. Are they brought near? Yes: Ye who sometimes were afar off, are made nigh, Eph. 2:13. Are they enriched? Yes: God hath called the poor in this world rich in faith, Jam. 2:5. Are they taken into the communion of saints? Yes: for we are come to the church of the first-born which are written in heaven, Heb. 12:23. And into communion with the holy angels? Yes: for we are come to an innumerable company of angels, Heb. 12:29. Are they entitled to tile best possessions? Yes: all things are yours, whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come, all are yours, 1 Cor. 3:22. Are they happy in the best blessings? Yes: The God and Father of our Lord Jesus hath blessed us with spiritual blessings in heavenly things, Eph. 1:3. Are they happy both for soul and body? Yes: He hath given us all things that pertain to life and godliness, 2 Pet. 1:3.” (Matthew Henry)

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