Few are Chosen - Bp. Donald Sanborn 10-14-01

Summary  The lecture discusses the theological concept that while many are called to salvation, only a few are chosen to attain it, a principle deeply rooted in Sacred Scripture and the teachings of the Church Fathers. It addresses a common objection regarding the small number of traditional Catholics who resist post-Vatican II changes, explaining that history and scripture support the idea that few truly persevere in faith. The speaker emphasizes that God offers sufficient grace to all for salvation, but only those who remain in a state of sanctifying grace, obey the Gospel, and avoid mortal sin will be saved. The Catholic faithful are warned against complacency amid modern moral decay, urging a serious commitment to prayer, faith, and moral living. The doctrine is not meant to induce despair but to inspire holy fear and perseverance, reminding believers that salvation is accessible through obedience to God’s natural law and grace, yet requires vigilance and effort. The lecture concludes with practical spiritual advice, encouraging ongoing prayer, avoidance of sin, and readiness for Christ’s coming, likened to wearing the wedding garment in the parable.Highlights  The principle “Many are called, but few are chosen” is supported by Sacred Scripture and Church Fathers.  Scripture examples like Noah’s flood and the parable of the wedding garment illustrate the small number of the elect.  God grants sufficient grace to all, but only those in sanctifying grace attain salvation.  Many Catholics risk damnation by disregarding Gospel teachings and living in mortal sin.  Salvation requires obedience to God’s natural law, prayer, and faith, which are accessible to all.  The doctrine should inspire holy fear, not despair, motivating perseverance in faith.  Practical advice includes prayer, spiritual reading, mortification of passions, and avoiding occasions of sin.Key Insights  The Biblical Foundation of Few Being Chosen: The teaching that only a minority will be saved is firmly rooted in Scripture, such as the parable of the wedding garment and the flood during Noah’s time. These narratives depict God’s justice and the reality that membership in the Church or being called is not sufficient without living in sanctifying grace. This underscores the gravity of personal holiness beyond mere affiliation.  The Role of Church Fathers in Supporting this Doctrine: Prominent theologians like St. Gregory the Great, St. Jerome, St. Augustine, and St. John Chrysostom have historically affirmed this theological opinion. Their writings provide a patristic foundation that enriches the traditional understanding, showing continuity in Church teaching about salvation and the elect. This tradition emphasizes vigilance and moral seriousness in the Christian life.  Sufficient Grace is Given to All, Yet Salvation is Not Guaranteed: God’s universal offer of grace means every person has the opportunity to be saved, but free will and personal cooperation with grace determine the outcome. This balance safeguards both God’s mercy and human responsibility, implying that salvation requires an active, ongoing commitment to faith and moral living.  Modern Catholics’ Complacency as a Spiritual Danger: The lecture highlights a stark reality—many Catholics today are indifferent to the Gospel and moral law, often embracing secular values and living in mortal sin. This numbing of conscience is a critical pastoral concern, as it endangers souls and reflects a failure to take seriously the call to holiness. The comparison with the Jews who rejected Christ serves as a sober warning.  Holy Fear as a Motivating Spiritual Attitude:  Rather than fostering despair, the doctrine of few being chosen calls believers to “fear of the Lord,” a reverent awareness of God’s justice and the soul’s fragility. This fear is constructive, encouraging conversion, repentance, and perseverance. It is described as a necessary spiritual disposition that keeps believers alert to the dangers of sin and complacency.  The Accessibility of Salvation through God’s Law and Grace: Salvation is presented as not overly difficult but requiring adherence to God’s natural law—living according to the way God created humans—and the supernatural means of grace. The Lord’s words about His “light burden” and “sweet yoke” highlight that holiness is attainable by ordinary Christians who faithfully practice prayer, obedience, and moral discipline.  Practical Spiritual Recommendations for Perseverance:  The lecture concludes with concrete guidance—maintain prayer, engage with spiritual reading, mortify evil passions, and avoid occasions of sin. These practices help believers remain in sanctifying grace and prepared for the “wedding” when Christ comes. The wedding garment symbolizes readiness for final judgment, underscoring the ongoing need for vigilance and holiness in daily life.