Paul was made an apostle by the direct call of God. “No man taketh this honor upon himself.” Among men we see that noted artists sometimes appear before royalty and their appearance is called a “command performance.” However gifted they may be and however famous, they dare not intrude into the king’s presence except by royal call, a call that amounts to an order. That call leaves no place for refusal except at the risk of affront to majesty. And with Paul it was not otherwise. God’s call was also His command. Had Paul been running for political office the voters would have determined the outcome. Had he been trying for a place in the literary world his own abilities would have decided that place for him. Had he been competing in the prize ring his own strength and skill would have won or lost for him. But his apostleship was not so determined.
Verse
No one takes this honor upon himself; he must be called by God, just as Aaron was. Hebrews 5:4
Thought
Among men we see that noted artists sometimes appear before royalty and their appearance is called a “command performance.” However gifted they may be and however famous, they dare not intrude into the king’s presence except by royal call, a call that amounts to an order.
Prayer
Let us hear Your call, Holy Father, and respond with our whole beings.