1 Corinthians 1:2
“to the assembly of God which is at Corinth; those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ in every place, both theirs and ours:”
BEREAN.AI
Title: Called to Be Saints
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:2
Paul writes to the church in Corinth, but he's not just sending a letter to one congregation. He addresses all who call on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, wherever they are. That includes you and me. When we hear these words, we're hearing Scripture written directly to us.
Notice what Paul calls these believers. He doesn't say "to the spiritually advanced" or "to the religious professionals." He says "to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints." Every Christian fits this description. Not just super Christians. Not just pastors and missionaries. Every person who trusts in Christ has been set apart by God and called to live as His holy people.
The Corinthians didn't look much like saints. They were divided, proud, confused about marriage, abusing the Lord's Supper, and tolerating gross sin. Yet Paul calls them saints because their identity doesn't depend on their performance. They are saints because God set them apart through Christ. Their sanctification is positional before it's practical. God declares them holy, then makes them holy.
This changes how we view ourselves and other believers. You're not trying to become a saint. If you trust Christ, you already are one. This doesn't mean we tolerate sin. It means we live up to who we already are in Christ. When you sin, you haven't lost your identity. You've failed to live like who God says you are. Confess your sin, receive forgiveness, and keep walking as a saint who sometimes sins, not a sinner trying to become a saint.
Paul adds that this letter goes to "all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." The Christian life isn't solo. We're part of a vast family that spans continents and centuries. When you feel isolated in your faith, remember that millions right now are calling on the same Lord. You stand with them, united by the same Spirit, trusting the same Savior.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You have set us apart as saints, not because of our goodness but because of Christ's perfect work. Help us live today as people who belong to You, showing the world what it looks like to be called by Your name. When we fail, remind us that our identity in You never changes. Amen.
