Can you make a detailed, exegetical, alliterated and expository baptist sermon about 2 Timothy 1:9?

## Sermon Title: "The Sovereign Call of God: Saved, Set Apart, and Secure" ### Scripture: 2 Timothy 1:9 _“Who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began.” (ESV)_ ### Introduction Beloved, as we gather today, we are reminded of the profound truth contained in the Apostle Paul’s letter to Timothy. In this verse, Paul emphasizes the nature of our salvation and the calling that accompanies it. I want to explore three key components of God's sovereign call as articulated in this verse: 1. **The Source of Salvation** 2. **The Specificity of the Calling** 3. **The Security of Grace** Each of these points will reveal the richness of God’s purpose in our lives and the grace that empowers us to fulfill that purpose. ### I. The Source of Salvation: “Who Saved Us” 1. **Divine Initiative**: Salvation is not a product of human effort; it begins with God. Ephesians 2:8–9 reminds us that it is by grace we have been saved, through faith, and that not of ourselves. It’s God who initiates salvation! 2. **Personal Salvation**: The term “us” in this verse speaks to the personal nature of this grace. It’s not a blanket statement for the masses but a specific calling to individuals. God doesn’t call a faceless crowd; He calls you by name! 3. **Past, Present, and Future**: The saving work of Christ is comprehensive. We have been saved from the penalty of sin (justification), we are being saved from the power of sin (sanctification), and we will be saved from the presence of sin (glorification). Our salvation is anchored in Christ’s finished work. ### II. The Specificity of the Calling: “Called Us to a Holy Calling” 1. **Divine Purpose**: The “holy calling” indicates that our lives are set apart for God’s specific purposes. 1 Peter 2:9 affirms that we are “a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation.” God’s call is not generic; it’s tailored to us individually, involving our unique gifts and circumstances. 2. **Moral Calling**: Notice the emphasis on “holy.” This calling demands a lifestyle that reflects the holiness of God. Romans 12:1 urges us to present our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God. Our calling is not just about what we do; it involves who we are becoming. 3. **Faithful Following**: To be called to holiness means that we must follow faithfully. It’s a journey requiring perseverance, as Paul urges Timothy in 2 Timothy 4:7: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” Our calling will test our resolve and commitment. ### III. The Security of Grace: “Not Because of Our Works” 1. **Grace Alone**: It is God's purpose and grace that undergird our calling. This distinguishes the Christian faith from every other religion. Our works do not achieve salvation; rather, it is grace that secures it. Romans 11:6 underscores this truth: “But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace.” 2. **Eternal Perspective**: Paul highlights that this grace was given “before the ages began.” This eternal perspective reminds us that God’s plans for our lives are rooted in His timeless purpose. Our assurance doesn’t depend on our performance but on God’s everlasting faithfulness. 3. **Security in Christ**: As believers, we can approach life with confidence, knowing that our standing with God is secure. Philippians 1:6 states, “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” His grace sustains us; it doesn’t waver based on our mistakes or failures. ### Conclusion As we reflect on 2 Timothy 1:9, let us revel in the reality of our salvation, the specificity of our calling, and the security of His grace. Each of us is called to a holy purpose, not based on our works but through the stunning grace of God. And as we embark on this journey, let us commit ourselves to live lives worthy of this calling. Let us pray, acknowledging the divine initiative, embracing our specific calling, and resting in the security of grace. May God empower us to fulfill the call He has placed upon our lives, for His glory and the advancement of His kingdom. Amen.