Called to Be Saints: What It Really Means
When Paul opens his letter to the Corinthians, he writes something powerful:
“To the church of God which is at Corinth, to those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints…” 1 Corinthians 1:2, NKJV
Those four words called to be saints hold one of the most important truths in the New Testament. They describe your identity, your purpose, and the life God expects His people to live.
Today, many people think “saints” are religious superstars, miracle-workers, or people placed on stained-glass windows. But the Bible says something very different.
According to Scripture, every believer in Christ is called to be a saint set apart, cleansed, and empowered to live for God.
Let’s break down what this really means, why it matters, and what God requires from those who are called to be saints.
- What Does It Mean to Be Called to Be Saints?
The phrase called to be saints simply means “called to be God’s set-apart people.”
In the Bible, a saint is not someone who lived perfectly it’s someone God has separated from sin and set apart for Himself.
To be called to be saints means:
- You are chosen by God.
- You are invited into a holy relationship with Him.
- You belong to people who live differently.
- You are set apart from the world’s values and set apart for God’s will.
Saints are not perfect people they are purposed people.
They live with holy priorities, holy affections, and holy obedience because God has called them into a new identity.
“Be holy, for I am holy.” – 1 Peter 1:16
This command is not optional it is part of the calling to be saints.
- How Important Is This Calling?
Being called to be saints is not a small doctrinal detail it is central to Christian identity.
Here’s why it is vital:
- It defines your purpose
You were not just saved from sin you were saved for God.
Your life has divine intention behind it.
- It separates the church from the world
Paul told the Corinthians they were sanctified in Christ even though their city was filled with immorality.
Your calling to be saints makes the church a shining contrast to culture.
- It protects the gospel’s reputation
When believers live holy, the world sees Christ clearly.
When believers live carelessly, the message becomes blurry.
- It strengthens your relationship with God
Holiness isn’t about legalism it’s about closeness.
You cannot walk deeply with God while walking deeply in sin.
- It equips you for spiritual authority
God uses clean vessels.
When you take your calling seriously, God trusts you with greater influence and spiritual impact.
This is why Paul opens his letter reminding believers they are called to be saints.
If you forget who you are, you will forget how you are supposed to live.
- What Is Required of Those Called to Be Saints?
God never gives a calling without giving instruction.
To be called to be saints, the Bible requires several things:
- A life separated from sin
Holiness means distancing yourself from habits, environments, and relationships that pull you away from God.
- A lifestyle of obedience
Saints are not driven by feelings — they are driven by God’s Word.
You cannot live holy if you do not live obediently.
- A heart devoted to Christ
Being called to be saints starts inwardly — your desires, priorities, and decisions reflect your devotion to God.3
- Fellowship with other believers
Paul says saints “call upon the name of the Lord together.”
Saints grow stronger in community.
- Continual spiritual growth
The calling is holy — and so is the process.
Holiness is not instant perfection; it is daily transformation.
“This is the will of God, your sanctification…” — 1 Thessalonians 4:3
God’s will is not a mystery. He wants His saints to be holy.
You are not ordinary.
You are not random.
You are called to be a saint.
Choose one area of your life this week to intentionally surrender to God.
Maybe it’s a habit, a mindset, a relationship, or a place you’ve been struggling.
Ask God to help you walk like someone who is truly called to be a saint.
Then take one bold step of obedience.
Because saints are not defined by perfection they are defined by pursuit.
Answer God’s call today. Live like a saint, walk like a saint, and shine like a saint.
The world needs believers who take their calling seriously.
And God has called you called to be saints.