Throughout history, God has spoken to His people in various ways—through direct revelation, through His prophets, and ultimately through His Son, Jesus Christ. Yet, one of the most intriguing ways God communicates in Scripture is by calling a person’s name twice. When this happens, it is never incidental. It signals an urgent message, a significant calling, a solemn warning, or an expression of deep emotion from God. These moments remind us that God is not distant or indifferent—He speaks, He calls, and He desires our response.
Hearing God’s voice is an essential part of the Christian life. Jesus declared, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27). Listening to God requires not just hearing but responding in obedience. The ability to recognize His voice is cultivated through prayer, Scripture, and a heart inclined toward Him. But are we truly listening? Are we prepared to respond as the great men and women of faith did when God called their names?
As we explore eight biblical instances where God or Jesus called someone’s name twice, we will see how each moment carried profound significance. These passages are not only historical but deeply applicable—teaching us about faith, obedience, correction, and the heart of God.
Words: 1312 / Time to read: 7 minutes
Abraham, Abraham – A Test of Faith
Abraham’s greatest test came when God commanded him to sacrifice his son, Isaac—the very child through whom God had promised to fulfill His covenant. With unwavering obedience, Abraham ascended Mount Moriah and prepared to carry out the command. But at the last moment, “the angel of the Lord called out to him from heaven, ‘Abraham, Abraham!’” (Genesis 22:11). The urgency in this repetition stopped Abraham’s hand and revealed that God had provided a substitute sacrifice.
This moment not only affirmed Abraham’s faith but also foreshadowed God’s ultimate provision of Jesus Christ as the Lamb of God (John 1:29). Abraham’s willingness to obey, even when he did not understand, exemplifies the essence of true faith—trusting God completely.
Jacob, Jacob – Reassurance in Transition
After years of believing his son Joseph was dead, Jacob received word that Joseph was alive in Egypt. As an old man, Jacob faced the uncertainty of leaving the land of Canaan and journeying to a foreign land. In this moment of doubt, God spoke in a vision: “Jacob, Jacob!” (Genesis 46:2).
God’s call reassured Jacob that this journey was part of His divine plan: “Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you into a great nation there” (Genesis 46:3). This passage reminds us that God goes before us in times of transition. When we are unsure of the future, He calls our name and leads us forward.
Moses, Moses – A Call to Leadership
Moses was tending his flock in the wilderness when he encountered the burning bush. As he approached, God called out, “Moses, Moses!” (Exodus 3:4). This marked the beginning of Moses’ calling to deliver Israel from Egypt.
Though Moses felt inadequate, God assured him of His presence and power. This moment illustrates that God often calls the unlikely to accomplish His purposes. He equips those He calls and expects obedience, even when we feel unworthy.
Samuel, Samuel – A Young Prophet’s Calling
As a child serving in the temple, Samuel heard his name called at night but did not recognize it as God’s voice. After Eli instructed him, he finally responded correctly: “Speak, for your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:10).
Samuel’s calling reminds us that God speaks to those who are willing to listen. His voice is not limited to the experienced or the powerful but is heard by those with a humble, obedient heart.
Martha, Martha – Prioritizing the Right Thing
Martha was distracted with serving while her sister, Mary, sat at Jesus’ feet. Jesus lovingly corrected her, saying, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed” (Luke 10:41).
This passage teaches us to prioritize time with Jesus over the busyness of life. Serving is important, but nothing should take precedence over our relationship with Christ.
Simon, Simon – A Warning of Testing
Before His crucifixion, Jesus warned Peter: “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail” (Luke 22:31–32).
This solemn moment foreshadowed Peter’s denial of Christ and his later restoration. It reminds us that spiritual warfare is real, but Christ intercedes for His followers.
Saul, Saul – A Transformational Calling
Saul, a fierce persecutor of Christians, was struck by a blinding light on the road to Damascus. He heard a voice say, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” (Acts 9:4).
This encounter led to Saul’s transformation into Paul, the great apostle. It demonstrates that no one is beyond God’s grace. When God calls, He changes lives completely.
Jerusalem, Jerusalem – Jesus’ Lament
Jesus sorrowfully cried, “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets… how often I have longed to gather your children together” (Matthew 23:37).
His lament reveals God’s deep love for His people, even when they reject Him. It serves as a warning that rejecting Christ has consequences, yet His invitation remains open to all.
Conclusion – Responding to God’s Call
God still calls people today. Whether through His Word, conviction, or life circumstances, His voice is clear for those who are willing to listen. Abraham’s life provides a powerful example of faith in action—he heard God’s call, and despite moments of doubt, he obeyed. Scripture tells us: “By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going” (Hebrews 11:8).
Abraham had highs and lows in his spiritual journey. He faced uncertainty, mistakes, and moments of doubt, yet he is remembered as a man of faith. His example reminds us that obedience does not require full understanding—only trust in the One who calls.
If you would like to dig deeper into a biblical example of listening to God, check out my book, Faith, Hope, and Love (Grace and Knowledge Series Book 2). This book explores the life of Abraham, revealing the spiritual growth of this man of faith through his victories and failures.
May we, like Abraham, listen, trust, and obey when God calls our name.
All Scripture quoted from:
New International Version (NIV)
Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.®. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
