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The "Call to Israel" refers to the divine summons and covenantal relationship between God and the nation of Israel as depicted throughout the Bible. This call is characterized by God's selection of Israel as His chosen people, His promises to them, and His expectations for their conduct and faithfulness.

Divine Election and Covenant

The call to Israel begins with the patriarch Abraham, to whom God first made His covenant. InGenesis 12:1-3 , God calls Abraham to leave his country and promises to make him a great nation: "I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, so that you will be a blessing." This covenant is reiterated and expanded upon with Isaac and Jacob, establishing the foundation for the nation of Israel.

The call is further solidified at Mount Sinai, where God gives the Law to Moses. InExodus 19:5-6 , God declares, "Now if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, you will be My treasured possession out of all the nations—for the whole earth is Mine. And unto Me you shall be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation." This passage underscores Israel's unique role and responsibility as God's chosen people.

Promises and Land

Central to the call is the promise of land. God promises Abraham that his descendants will inherit the land of Canaan (Genesis 15:18-21). This promise is a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament, symbolizing God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His covenant. The land is not only a physical inheritance but also a place where Israel is to live out its calling as a holy nation.

Prophetic Calls and Warnings

Throughout Israel's history, prophets are sent to call the nation back to faithfulness. The prophets remind Israel of their covenant with God and warn of the consequences of disobedience. For instance, inIsaiah 1:18-20 , God calls Israel to repentance: "Come now, let us reason together, says the LORD. Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the best of the land. But if you resist and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword."

Messianic Hope

The call to Israel also includes the promise of a Messiah, a future hope for redemption and restoration. This is seen in passages likeIsaiah 9:6-7 , which speaks of a coming ruler from the line of David: "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the call to Israel is understood in light of Jesus Christ. Jesus is seen as the fulfillment of the Messianic promises and the embodiment of Israel's calling. InMatthew 15:24 , Jesus states, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." However, through Jesus, the call is extended to all nations, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham that "all peoples on earth will be blessed through you" (Genesis 12:3).

Conclusion

The call to Israel is a central theme in the biblical narrative, highlighting God's sovereign choice, His covenantal promises, and His desire for a holy people. It serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and the unfolding of His redemptive plan for humanity.