κλητός (klētos)
klētos
called
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 12 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective klētos simply means "called." In the New Testament, this term is reserved for a divine initiative rather than human choice. It describes those whom God has summoned to specific roles or states of being. For instance, Paul identifies himself as "called to be an apostle" in Romans 1:1 and 1 Corinthians 1:1, marking his authority as derived from that summons.
The word carries distinct theological weight when applied to believers generally. It appears frequently in greetings, such as "to those called to be saints" in Romans 1:7 and 1 Corinthians 1:2. This usage highlights that holiness is not merely an achievement but a status conferred by God's invitation. The term also connects closely with election, appearing alongside "elect" in Revelation 17:14.
A notable distinction arises in Matthew 22:14, where the text contrasts those who are "called" with those who are "chosen." This suggests a difference between the broad invitation extended to many and the specific selection of those who respond faithfully. The sources indicate that while the call is universal in scope, the outcome depends on the response.
Its root relates to the verb kaleō, reinforcing the idea of a verbal summons. Translators typically render it as "called," preserving the simplicity of the original Greek. This straightforward term anchors the believer's identity in God's active invitation rather than personal merit.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word klētos simply means "called." In the New Testament, it describes a divine summons rather than human choice. When Paul writes to believers in Rome or Corinth, he does not address them as people who achieved holiness through effort. He calls them "saints" because God has invited them into that status. This shifts your identity from what you do to who has spoken over you.
This invitation is the foundation of your security. Romans 8:28 reminds us that those who are called are aligned with God’s purpose. The call itself is an act of grace, not a reward for merit. You belong to Jesus Christ because He summoned you, not because you earned the right to stay.
It is comforting to know that your standing rests on His initiative. Whether you feel strong or weak, the invitation remains active. God’s call anchors your faith in His faithful character, offering peace that does not depend on your performance but on His promise.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 12 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- called5×
- called,2×
- a called2×
- to [those] called1×
- called;1×
- [are] called1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- κλητοῖς3×
- κλητὸς2×
- κλητοί2×
- κλητοὶ2×
- κλητοῖς·1×
- κλητοῖς,1×
- κλητοί,1×
Key Verses
-
Romans 1:7
to all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Paul defines the believers' identity as "saints" based entirely on being called by God, establishing holiness as a conferred status rather than an achieved moral state.
-
Romans 8:28
We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, for those who are called according to his purpose.
This verse links the call directly to God's purpose, assuring believers that their summons is part of a larger plan working for their good.
-
Matthew 22:14
For many are called, but few chosen.”
The contrast between "called" and "chosen" highlights that while the invitation is broad, the final outcome involves a specific selection based on faithful response.