What is the Puritan concept of "calling" and how does it relate to the Puritan beliefs?
Thanks for you help :)
http://www.caledonia.org.uk/calling.htm
The concept of "calling" was central to Puritan beliefs and played a significant role in shaping their worldview. To understand it, I can explain the Puritan beliefs and then discuss how the concept of calling relates to them.
The Puritans were a group of English Protestants who sought to purify the Church of England from what they perceived as remaining Catholic practices. They believed in predestination, which means that God has chosen who will be saved or damned even before birth. Puritans emphasized the significance of individual salvation and believed that each person had a specific role or calling in life.
The Puritan concept of calling referred to the idea that God had a specific purpose or vocation for each individual. They believed that God had ordained their path in life, and they were expected to fulfill their calling by living in accordance with God's will. This idea extended to all aspects of life, not just religious matters. Whether one was called to be a preacher, farmer, merchant, or parent, the Puritans believed that fulfilling one's calling was an essential duty.
In practical terms, fulfilling one's calling required qualities like diligence, discipline, and hard work. The Puritans believed that success in one's work was a sign of God's favor and a testament to one's grace. They viewed worldly success as a reflection of spiritual wellbeing, and they sought to glorify God through their work.
The Puritans believed that fulfilling their calling was not only an individual obligation but also a means to fulfill their communal purpose. By each person fulfilling their calling, the community as a whole would thrive and reflect God's glory. This idea of a collective effort in fulfilling individual callings contributed to the strong sense of community and interdependence among the Puritans.
To understand the concept of calling in relation to Puritan beliefs, it is important to study Puritan literature, sermons, and other primary sources that provide insights into their religious beliefs and convictions. By examining their writings and understanding the historical and cultural context in which the Puritans lived, one can gain a deeper understanding of how the concept of calling shaped their worldview and influenced their actions.