The Calling

 Main Idea

This lecture revolves around the concept of the divine calling, explaining that God calls الإنسان in multiple ways, not necessarily through direct appearances or voices, but the calling may be internal or through the Church or others.

 Types of Calling

His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explains that there are several types of calling:

• A direct calling from God as with prophets and apostles.
• A calling through parents by dedicating their children to God.
• A calling through the people or the Church.
• The internal calling, which is the most important and most common.

 The Internal Calling

The internal calling is a deep feeling placed by God in the heart of a person, represented in:

• Love for God and الناس
• A strong desire to serve the Kingdom
• Holy zeal that drives toward good deeds

This calling needs spiritual guidance and confirmation from the Church, especially if it relates to an official ministry.

 Spiritual Examples

The text presents many examples of internal calling such as:

• David in his confrontation with Goliath
• Nehemiah in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem
• Church figures who served through inner motivation without a visible call

These examples confirm that God works in the heart and guides الإنسان from within.

 Calling and Good Deeds

The teaching emphasizes that:

• Every person is called to do good without waiting for a special call
• Neglecting to do good is considered a sin
• The holy life is a general calling for all believers

 Guidelines for Service and Teaching

The text distinguishes between:

• General calling: for every person to live a holy life and do good
• Special calling: such as teaching and preaching, which requires:
  • A calling from the Church
  • Spiritual and educational preparation
  • Official sending for service

 Spiritual Message

The main message is that the calling is not always an external visible matter, but often the voice of God in the heart, calling الإنسان to a holy life and service to others, with the

necessity of distinguishing between true spiritual zeal and ministry that requires Church sending.

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