Meaning: The quote "Many are called but few are chosen" is a well-known biblical phrase that appears in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 22, verse 14. It is often interpreted as conveying the idea that although many people are invited or called to follow a certain path or belief, only a select few will ultimately be chosen or accepted. The quote is attributed to Jesus Christ and is part of a parable he tells about a king who hosts a wedding feast for his son. When the invited guests refuse to attend, the king sends his servants to invite others, but only a few are chosen to attend the feast.

The meaning of the phrase has been widely discussed and debated within Christian theology and has been interpreted in various ways by different theologians and scholars. Some understand it as emphasizing the idea of divine election and predestination, suggesting that God has chosen certain individuals for salvation while others are not chosen. This interpretation is often associated with the Calvinist tradition of Protestantism, which emphasizes the sovereignty of God in choosing those who will be saved.

Others interpret the phrase as a call to discipleship and commitment, suggesting that although many people may hear the call to follow Christ, only a few will truly embrace the demands of discipleship and live out their faith in a meaningful way. This interpretation highlights the idea that the path of faithfulness and dedication to the teachings of Christ is challenging and not followed by the majority.

In his quote, Edward Norman, a historian and theologian, reflects on the implications of this biblical saying for the establishment and nature of the Christian Church. He suggests that the sayings of Christ indicate that the Church will always be a minority affair, meaning that it will not be embraced by the majority of people. This viewpoint aligns with the idea that the path of faithfulness and discipleship is not an easy one, and that the commitment to following Christ's teachings may not be widely accepted or popular.

Norman's perspective raises questions about the nature of religious belief and the role of the Church in society. It prompts consideration of the challenges and obstacles that the Church may face in fulfilling its mission and spreading its message. It also invites reflection on the distinction between popularity and authenticity in matters of faith, raising the question of whether the success of the Church should be measured by the size of its following or by the depth of its commitment to its principles.

This quote and the ideas it conveys have relevance beyond the realm of theology and religion. It can be seen as a more general commentary on the nature of commitment and the challenges of pursuing a path that requires dedication and sacrifice. It suggests that the pursuit of a meaningful and authentic life may not be a popular or widely embraced choice, and that it often involves standing apart from the crowd and making difficult decisions.

In conclusion, the quote "Many are called but few are chosen" is a thought-provoking biblical phrase that has been the subject of diverse interpretations and discussions. Edward Norman's reflection on this saying highlights the idea that the Church will always be a minority affair, prompting consideration of the challenges and significance of faithfulness, commitment, and authenticity in matters of religious belief and beyond.