Callings: External Origin and Biblical Examples

Rebecca sits down with Karen Swallow Prior to explore vocation that comes from outside us, the goodness of “ordinary” faithfulness, and why pursuing the true, the good, and the beautiful gives shape to our work in every season. They reflect on biblical portraits of calling (Paul, Moses, Jonah), the role of community in discernment, and how serving others—not chasing status—aligns our lives with Jesus.

Resources mentioned:

• Karen's Website: karenswallowprior.com
• You Have a Calling: Finding Your Vocation in the True, Good, and Beautiful (Karen Swallow Prior)
• On Reading Well: Finding the Good Life Through Great Books (Karen Swallow Prior)
• The Evangelical Imagination: How Stories, Images, and Metaphors Created a Culture in Crisis (Karen Swallow Prior)
• Bible passages:
  • Acts 9 (Paul’s calling)
  • Exodus 3–4 (Moses)
  • Jonah (running from calling)
  • Colossians 3:23–24 (work as unto the Lord)

0:00 Exploring Vocation and Identity in Confronting Christianity Podcast
2:34 Understanding Life's Callings and Their External Origins
7:23 Discerning Personal Calling Amidst Biblical and Modern Examples
13:57 Discovering Your Calling Through Truth and Community
14:52 Jesus's Teachings on Power and Christian Vocation
17:47 Redefining Life's Calling Beyond Glamorous Achievements
24:09 Christian Perspectives on Vocation and Service
28:42 Finding Purpose in Serving Others Over Personal Ambitions
33:28 Finding Purpose in Caring for Creation
36:07 A Humbling Experience in a School Swimming Contest
36:56 Discovering Personal Callings Through Community and Encouragement
40:39 Exploring Beauty and Vocation Through a Christian Lens

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Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Good Podcast Co.⁠⁠⁠⁠