CHOSEN AND EMPOWERED

CHOSEN AND EMPOWERED

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Mark 3:13-19

Key Verse: “And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach.” (Mark 3:14)

Supporting Texts: John 15:16, Ephesians 2:10, Acts 1:8, 1 Peter 2:9, Jeremiah 1:5

Description: This study reveals that divine selection is purposeful, leading to empowerment, fellowship, and kingdom assignment.

INTRODUCTION

In Mark 3:13-19, Jesus ascends a mountain and calls those He desired, appointing twelve disciples to be with Him and to be sent out. This moment is not random but intentional, showing that divine selection is rooted in purpose. Jesus did not choose based on human qualification but on divine intention.

The calling of the twelve reveals a pattern that still applies today. God calls individuals not just to bless them, but to equip them for service and impact. Being chosen by God is both a privilege and a responsibility, requiring alignment with His will and readiness for His assignment.

Many believers struggle with understanding their purpose because they do not fully grasp the meaning of being chosen. This passage teaches that selection by God comes with empowerment, transformation, and a clear mission. When God calls, He also equips.

1. DIVINE SELECTION IS INITIATED BY GOD

God is the one who calls, chooses, and appoints according to His purpose.

a) God chooses whom He wills (Mark 3:13)
Jesus called those He desired, showing that divine selection is based on God’s will, not human merit.

b) Selection is rooted in purpose (Jeremiah 1:5)
God knew and ordained His servants before their birth.

c) Selection is an act of grace (1 Corinthians 1:26-27)
God chooses the unlikely to accomplish His purposes.

d) Selection is not by human effort (John 15:16)
Jesus emphasised that we did not choose Him, but He chose us.

Biblical Example:
The choosing of the twelve disciples (Mark 3:13-19) demonstrates that divine selection is intentional and purposeful.

2. THE CALLED ARE FIRST TO BE WITH JESUS

Before assignment comes relationship; intimacy with Christ is foundational.

a) Fellowship precedes function (Mark 3:14)
Jesus called them first to be with Him before sending them out.

b) Intimacy builds spiritual strength (John 15:4)
Abiding in Christ is essential for fruitfulness.

c) Relationship produces transformation (2 Corinthians 3:18)
Spending time with Christ changes us into His image.

d) Presence precedes power (Exodus 33:14-15)
God’s presence is the key to effective service.

Biblical Example:
The disciples walking daily with Jesus (Mark 3:14) shows that intimacy is the foundation of ministry.

3. THE CHOSEN ARE EMPOWERED FOR ASSIGNMENT

God does not call without equipping; empowerment accompanies divine selection.

a) Empowerment comes from the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8)
The Spirit enables believers to fulfil their assignment.

b) Authority is given for spiritual work (Mark 3:15)
Jesus gave them power to cast out demons.

c) Empowerment ensures effectiveness (Ephesians 3:20)
God’s power works in us to accomplish beyond our ability.

d) Spiritual gifts accompany calling (1 Corinthians 12:7)
Each believer is given gifts for the benefit of others.

Biblical Example:
The disciples casting out demons (Luke 10:17) shows that divine empowerment enables supernatural results.

4. THE CHOSEN ARE SENT WITH PURPOSE

Divine selection always leads to mission and impact.

a) Calling leads to preaching (Mark 3:14)
The disciples were sent to proclaim the message of the Kingdom.

b) Calling leads to service (Ephesians 2:10)
Believers are created for good works prepared by God.

c) Calling leads to influence (Matthew 5:14-16)
The chosen are called to be light in the world.

d) Calling produces lasting fruit (John 15:16)
God’s purpose ensures that our impact endures.

Biblical Example:
The apostles spreading the Gospel (Acts 2:14-41) demonstrates how the chosen fulfil their divine mission.

CONCLUSION

The calling of the twelve disciples reveals that divine selection is not accidental but intentional. God chooses individuals according to His purpose, not their qualifications. However, being chosen is only the beginning; it must be followed by intimacy, empowerment, and obedience to the assignment.

As believers, we must recognise that we are chosen for a reason. God has called us to be with Him, to be transformed by Him, and to be sent by Him. When we embrace this calling, we step into a life of purpose, power, and impact.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, thank You for choosing me according to Your purpose in Jesus name

2. Father, help me to walk in the understanding of my divine calling in Jesus name

3. Lord, draw me into deeper fellowship with You in Jesus name

4. Father, empower me with the Holy Spirit for my assignment in Jesus name

5. Lord, let Your purpose be fulfilled in my life in Jesus name

6. Father, equip me with every gift needed for my calling in Jesus name

7. Lord, help me to remain faithful to Your assignment in Jesus name

8. Father, make my life impactful for Your Kingdom in Jesus name

9. Lord, remove every limitation to my effectiveness in Jesus name

10. Father, let my life bring glory to Your name in Jesus name

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. You are chosen by God for a divine purpose!

2. You shall walk in the fullness of your calling!

3. The power of God shall rest upon your life!

4. You shall be equipped for every assignment given to you!

5. Your life shall produce lasting impact!

6. You shall not fail in your divine mandate!

7. The presence of God shall go with you everywhere!

8. You shall walk in spiritual authority and power!

9. Your gifts shall make room for you!

10. You shall fulfil destiny and glorify God!