For many are called, but few are chosen.
Matthew 22:14 KJV
These words, spoken at the end of the parable of the wedding feast, urge every believer to examine their heart. God’s call goes out to many, but only those who respond with genuine surrender and preparation step into their place among the chosen.
In the parable, Jesus described a king who prepared a wedding banquet for his son. The king sent invitations to honoured guests, but they refused to come. Some ignored the call. Others mocked it and mistreated the messengers. The king responded by inviting anyone willing to attend, both good and bad. The hall filled, yet one guest stood out. He wore no wedding garment. Though present, he had not prepared himself for the occasion. The king had him removed. Jesus ended the story with these unforgettable words: “Many are called, but few are chosen.”
This verse does not suggest that God plays favouritism or withholds salvation. Scripture teaches that He “is not willing that any should perish” (2 Peter 3:9), and Jesus died for the whole world (John 3:16). However, while God’s call reaches many, only those who respond in faith, repentance, and obedience reveal themselves as truly chosen.
Religious activity cannot replace true salvation. Serving in church or attending services regularly does not guarantee your place in the Kingdom of God. You must ensure that you have received the righteousness of Christ—the only garment that qualifies anyone for the banquet. Without it, even the most visible acts of ministry carry no eternal value.
Judas Iscariot offers a tragic example. Jesus personally chose him as one of the twelve disciples. Judas walked closely with the Saviour, witnessed miracles, and preached the gospel. Yet, he chose greed and betrayal over loyalty. Though God called him, Judas refused to walk the path of obedience. In contrast, Peter failed as well. He denied Jesus. But Peter repented, returned, and led the early Church in power. Both received God’s call, but only one responded as the chosen.
This pattern repeats in our world today. Many hear the gospel through sermons, conversations, or life events. The Holy Spirit stirs hearts. Conviction arises during worship or quiet moments. God calls people through trials, relationships, and the testimony of others. But not everyone says yes. Some delay. Others shrug it off. Some accept with words but never change. A few truly surrender. They embrace salvation, walk in righteousness, and follow Jesus with conviction. These become the chosen, not by merit, but by their wholehearted response.
The wedding garment in the parable symbolises the righteousness of Christ. You cannot enter God’s presence on your terms. You must receive the gift of salvation and live in daily obedience. Accepting the invitation is not enough. You must let it transform you.
Today, God still calls. He speaks through His Word, convicts through the Spirit, and reaches out through people. He calls you into salvation, purpose, and a deep relationship. You must decide how to respond. Will you honour the invitation or treat it casually? Will you live as one chosen, or remain among the many who ignore the urgency?
Living it Out
God’s call demands more than attendance or appearance. It calls for surrender. Many receive the invitation, but few allow it to change them. Don’t just show up. Come dressed in Christ. Come ready to walk in faith.
God still invites. He still longs for your heart. Let your response mark you as chosen, transformed, clothed in righteousness, and faithful to the end.