This unit is designed to help students understand that God's call 1) creates a redeemed community; 2) blesses that community and its individuals in order that they may become a blessing to others; 3) includes special realms in which He tells us that we have some unique responsibilities with which He charges us to make a difference in our world; and 4) at times, goes out to individuals for specific, ordained, ministry tasks.
Lesson 1: A Called People--This lesson is about the most basic call of all: God's desire for every person to become a part of His family. (Genesis 12:1-4; Deuteronomy 7:6-11; Hosea 11:1-4; Luke 14:15-24; Romans 8:28-30; Ephesians 1:4-14; 1 Peter 2:9-10)
Lesson 2: The Purpose of the Call--This lesson explores the idea that God graciously and undeservedly blesses us so that we can bless others. (Genesis 12:1-4; 2 Corinthians 5:16-21; Ephesians 2:8-10; Philippians 2:14-15)
Lesson 3: A Special Call--This lesson presents two unique challenges. One challenge is to dispel the commonly held myth that somehow there is a great gulf that separates ministers and laypersons. At the same time, a second challenge is presented: God and the Church ordain certain persons to perform special ministry tasks that equip the entire Church to be ministers. (1 Samuel 3; Isaiah 6:1-8; Jeremiah 1:1-9; Acts 9:1-22; Ephesians 4:11-12; 1 Peter 5:1-4)