Stryper - The Calling Lyrics

The Calling

The Calling Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

Released on August 7, 2012, Stryper's song "The Calling" arrives as a powerful invitation, weaving together the band's signature sound with a profound spiritual message. At its core, the song explores the deeply personal yet universal experience of being summoned by a divine purpose, a theme central to the Christian faith. It speaks to that inner sense of direction, that moment when one recognizes something greater at work in their life, urging them toward a specific path or indeed, toward God Himself. This isn’t merely about a career or a specific task; it’s about acknowledging the voice that draws us out of the mundane and into a relationship with the Creator and a life lived for His glory.

The musical landscape of "The Calling" complements its lyrical weight. It possesses an energy that feels both urgent and anthemic, propelling the listener forward just as the theme suggests movement and response. The familiar vocal harmonies and driving instrumentation build a sense of momentum, creating an atmosphere that feels significant and purposeful. It doesn't just deliver a message; it aims to embody the very feeling of being called – a stirring, a sense of being set apart for something vital.

Lyrically, the song bypasses ambiguity to directly address the concept of God's summons. It speaks to the moment when one senses God reaching out, a moment that requires a choice to respond or ignore. This resonates powerfully with numerous biblical accounts where individuals were specifically called by God for various purposes, whether it was Abraham called to leave his homeland (Genesis 12:1-3), Moses called to lead Israel out of Egypt (Exodus 3:10), or the disciples called to follow Jesus (Matthew 4:18-22). Beyond these specific vocations, the song captures the broader truth that all believers are called into relationship with God and to live a life that reflects His light to the world. The apostle Paul speaks extensively on this, reminding us in Romans 8:28-30 that we are called according to His purpose and predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son.

"The Calling" also touches upon the required response to this divine invitation. A call necessitates an answer. It's not enough to simply hear; there must be a turning, a yielding, a decision to step forward in faith. This echoes the challenge Jesus presented when He said, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me" (Luke 9:23). Being called isn't always easy; it often involves sacrifice and a change of direction, moving away from one's own plans to embrace God's. Yet, the power to answer comes from the One who calls, as affirmed in Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." The song encapsulates this dynamic tension and the empowering truth that enables a faithful response.

Ultimately, "The Calling" serves as a musical reminder and encouragement to recognize and embrace the unique purpose God has for each life. It underscores the truth from 1 Peter 2:9 that believers are "a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light." The song prompts introspection: Have we heard the call? Are we walking in a manner worthy of the calling we have received (Ephesians 4:1)? It's a stirring piece that uses the language of rock music to convey an eternal, life-changing message, urging listeners not just to acknowledge God's voice, but to actively step into the path He has laid out, pressing forward towards the prize of the upward call in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14). It's an anthem of divine invitation and the empowering call to respond with faith and courage.