You Are Chosen and Called by God’s Grace

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for 1 Corinthians 1:1-3 (ESV)
You Are Chosen and Called by God’s Grace

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"Paul, called by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus, and our brother Sosthenes, to the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Corinthians 1:1-3 (ESV)

The book of 1 Corinthians is Paul’s first preserved letter to the believers in Corinth—a bustling city known for its commerce, diversity, and moral challenges. Writing around AD 55, Paul seeks to address issues of disunity, worldly influence, and spiritual immaturity within the church. He opens his letter by affirming God’s call upon their lives and extending blessings of grace and peace. The opening verses remind the church—and us—of who we are in Christ, the unity we share with all believers, and the supernatural resources available to us through God’s love.

Examine

This passage emphasizes that every believer is called and set apart, not by personal merit, but by God’s grace and sovereign will. Paul’s greeting is more than a formality; it’s a declaration of identity and blessing. God initiates our salvation, sanctifies us through Jesus, and envelops us in His continual grace and peace. These blessings are not reserved for a select few but given to all who call upon Jesus.

Connection to Jesus: Jesus is the foundation of our calling, sanctification, and the source of grace and peace. He lived out perfect unity and invited others into relationship with the Father. Through His sacrifice and resurrection, we are made “saints”—set apart and counted holy. Every blessing Paul mentions flows through our connection to Christ, who extends His grace to us daily.

Main Themes:

Calling and Identity in Christ: Each believer is specially called and belongs to God, which transcends cultural, moral, or social status.
- Sanctification: Through Christ, we are made holy—set apart for God’s purpose.
- Grace and Peace: The unearned love (grace) and spiritual wholeness (peace) are daily gifts, rooted in our relationship with God through Christ.

Key Word Study:

- Sanctified ("hēgiasmenois" in Greek): Means to be made holy or set apart. This word describes believers’ new identity through Christ—a transformation from ordinary to sacred, given divine purpose and dignity.

- Grace ("charis" in Greek): Refers to God’s generous, undeserved favor. Unlike human merit, this grace is divine, free, and continual, empowering us to live as God’s children.

Apply

Reflective Questions:
- Where am I seeking my identity apart from God’s calling and grace?
- How can I lean into the truth of being sanctified and set apart by Christ today?
- In what relationships or situations do I need to extend the grace and peace I’ve been given?

Real-Life Application:

- Declare Your Identity: Begin your day by speaking God’s truth over yourself: “I am called, sanctified, and covered by God’s grace and peace.” Let this shape your confidence and decisions.

- Extend Grace and Peace: When conflict or misunderstanding arises, choose to respond with the same grace and peace you have received in Christ. Imagine someone who, after reading this passage, forgives a colleague’s mistake, defusing workplace tension and pointing hearts toward God’s love.

- Pursue Unity: Remember that you are joined with believers everywhere as “saints together.” Reach out to encourage someone else in their faith—a text, prayer, or a word of affirmation can build connection and remind you both of God’s unifying love.

Pray

Dear Father God, I praise You for calling me by name and setting me apart through Jesus Christ. Thank You for the immeasurable grace and deep peace You give so freely. Forgive me when I seek my worth in lesser things or forget the sacred purpose You have for my life. Help me embrace my true identity, living out my calling with humility, love, and unity with others. May I pour out Your grace and peace to everyone I meet today, becoming a living witness of Christ’s love. Holy Spirit, empower me to remember and walk in these truths. In Jesus’ powerful name, amen.

Closing Reflection: Imagine your life as a glass being filled under a fresh-flowing spring—God’s grace and peace never run dry, and each day, He pours in more than enough for you to overflow into the lives of others. As you move through your day, let every thought and action remind you that you are chosen, beloved, and set apart for a purpose the world cannot offer or take away.

Call to Action: Today, take a bold step in your identity as one called and sanctified by God. Offer a word of grace or a touch of peace to someone who needs it. As you walk forward, remember that you carry the blessing of God’s presence—wherever He leads, He supplies all you need to live as His beloved child.