1. called, invited (to a banquet)
   1. invited (by God in the proclamation of the Gospel) to obtain eternal salvation in the kingdom through Christ
   2. called to (the discharge of) some office
      1. divinely selected and appointed

What Does Kletos Mean in Greek in Context of the Bible?

Kletos is a Greek word that translates to “called” or “chosen.” In the context of the Bible, this term holds significant weight as it refers to those who are invited or summoned by God for a specific purpose. Understanding how kletos appears in scripture can illuminate its deep meaning and implications for believers today.

The Semantic Roots of Kletos

To appreciate the term kletos fully, we must delve into its roots. Kletos (κλητός) stems from the verb kaleo (καλέω), meaning “to call.” In the New Testament, the term kletos usually describes individuals chosen by God for salvation or service.

In ancient Greek culture, calling often signified an invitation to a gathering or a critical event. Similarly, in biblical text, to be kletos is to accept God’s call into a relationship or mission, affirming one’s significance within the divine plan.

Kletos in the New Testament

Kletos appears in several key passages of the New Testament. One pivotal verse is Romans 8:30, which states, “And those whom he predestined, he also called (kletos); and those whom he called, he also justified; and those whom he justified, he also glorified.” This scripture highlights the process of God’s divine action—moving from calling to justification to glorification, showcasing the journey of the believer.

Another notable mention is in 1 Corinthians 1:24, where Paul refers to Christ as “the power of God and the wisdom of God” to those whom God has called (kletos). Here, kletos is used to signify believers who have been invited to partake in the blessings and challenges of the Christian faith.

Theological Significance of Kletos

The call of God can manifest in various forms, such as a call to faith, discipleship, or specific ministry. Each believer’s calling may differ, yet they all partake in the divine invitation extended by God. This means that being kletos is not merely a label; it carries responsibilities and a mission rooted in God’s purpose.

Furthermore, theological discussions around kletos often include notions of predestination and human agency. While kletos suggests divine choosing, believers are also given the freedom to respond to God’s call, which emphasizes an interaction between divine sovereignty and human choice.

Kletos and the Concept of Community

In the early Christian community, understanding kletos involved recognizing the collective identity of believers. The New Testament often refers to the Church as the “called-out ones,” which connects them to the concept of ekklesia (ἐκκλησία)—the assembly or congregation.

This linkage to community suggests that being called is not an individual experience but a collective journey where each member supports and encourages one another in faith. This communal focus highlights the importance of unity in responding to God’s call and the collective mission assigned to believers.

Kletos in the Old Testament: A Broader View

While the word kletos itself does not appear in the Old Testament, the idea of being called by God is prominent throughout the texts. Figures such as Moses, David, and the prophets received direct calls for leadership and prophecy. For instance, when God called Moses from the burning bush (Exodus 3:4), it set in motion a sequence that would lead to the liberation of the Israelites.

This concept of call is vital as it establishes a precedent for understanding kletos in the New Testament. The continuity from Old Testament figures to New Testament believers emphasizes that God’s call is a defining aspect of faith history.

Practical Applications of Kletos for Believers

Understanding kletos allows believers to reflect on their personal callings today. Many individuals may ponder questions like: What is God calling me to do? How does my role fit within the broader mission of the Church?

Engaging with kletos can inspire believers to seek out their passion and purpose, encouraging active participation in their faith communities. This active engagement may manifest through prayer, service, sharing one’s testimony, or even pursuing vocational ministry.

Conclusion: Embracing the Call of Kletos

In summary, kletos represents much more than just a simple translation of “called” in the Greek language. Its implications in the biblical context are far-reaching, touching upon themes of divine election, purpose, community, and personal mission. Each one of us may ponder and reflect on our own calling and how we engage in the divine invitation that kletos embodies.

By recognizing the significance of kletos, we can develop a deeper understanding of how we fit into the plans that God has for us—individually and collectively—and how to participate in the unfolding story of faith.

Common Questions Related to What Does Kletos Mean In Greek In Context Of The Bible

Q. What does kletos mean in the Bible?
A. Kletos means “called” or “chosen” and refers to individuals summoned by God for a divine purpose, especially in the New Testament.

Q. How does kletos relate to salvation?
A. Kletos signifies those chosen by God for salvation, highlighting the divine invitation to have a relationship with Him.

Q. Can kletos refer to a community?
A. Yes, kletos suggests a collective identity among believers, emphasizing unity and shared mission as the “called-out ones.”

Q. What is the opposite of kletos?
A. While there isn’t a direct opposite, terms like “rejected” might reflect the notion of those who do not respond to God’s call.

Q. Where does the word kletos appear in the New Testament?
A. Kletos appears in verses like Romans 8:30 and 1 Corinthians 1:24, illustrating God’s call to believers.

Q. Is kletos significant in Christian ministry?
A. Yes, it underscores the idea that God has a specific purpose and mission for those in ministry.

Q. Does kletos appear in the Old Testament?
A. Kletos itself does not appear in the Old Testament, but the concept of divine calling is present in stories of figures like Moses and the prophets.

Q. How can I discern my kletos?
A. Prayer, reflection, and seeking guidance from trusted mentors and scripture can help individuals discern their unique calling.

Q. How does kletos affect community life in churches?
A. Kletos fosters a sense of unity and purpose among church members, encouraging them to work together towards shared goals in faith.

Q. What role does personal choice play in kletos?
A. While kletos represents God’s choosing, individuals have the freedom to accept or reject His call, highlighting the relationship between divine sovereignty and human response.