The three Christian callings are a calling (1) from God, (2) by human agency, and (3) out of need. A Divine calling is most evident in the life of Abraham, (Genesis 12:1), St. Anthony (Life of St. Anthony by St. Athanasius), and St. Augustine (Confessions 8.12.29-30). This calling is anything "which spurs us on to desire eternal life and salvation and encourages us to follow God and to adhere to his commands" (3.4.1). When we are moved by the examples and teachings of holy men, God calls us by human agency (3.4.3). The third calling of necessity is best exemplified by Israel who returned to the Lord only in times of persecution. The Lord allows for circumstances that drive people to His Grace involuntarily by necessity, which is also illustrated in the conversions of St. Moses the Black and the Apostle Paul (3.4.4-5). Although the third calling seems the least praiseworthy of the three, all three callings have produced apostate, lukewarm, and perfect Christians (3.5.1). If these callings are the beginning of Christian life, perfect renunciations are the end of it.
