Seals Believers
In him you also were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and when you believed. The Holy Spirit is the down payment of our inheritance, until the redemption of the possession, to the praise of his glory.
Ephesians 1:13-14 (CSB)
During the first century, a king would seal a letter with wax and impress his symbol into it using his signet ring. This process granted the letter the mark of authority from an earthly king and ensured its security. When we consider the work of the Holy Spirit, we must recognize that, as followers of Christ, we are sealed by the Holy Spirit. We bear the authentic mark of a Child of God. When reflecting on this sealing work, we should acknowledge three promises.
THE HOLY SPIRIT IS A DEPOSIT
The Holy Spirit is a deposit that directs us toward heaven. A deposit serves as a down payment for what will be gained later. When we reserve a hotel room for vacation, we often need to make a deposit to secure the reservation. The Spirit functions as an initial payment of eternity for the believer. The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is akin to the first installment of our inheritance as children of God, with its full realization to come later.
THE HOLY SPIRIT IS A GUARANTEE
The Holy Spirit also seals us with a guarantee. For the believer, this guarantee signifies eternal life. It is given as we embrace the promise that nothing can snatch us from the Father’s hand. The Holy Spirit marks us as belonging to the Kingdom of God, ensuring our inclusion. This guarantee gives us the certainty we need for hope in everlasting life. The presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives fosters hope, resting in the assurance that only God can provide.
THE HOLY SPIRIT IS AT WORK
The Holy Spirit is actively working in our lives to prepare us for heaven. He is transforming us and guiding us to become more like Christ. He illuminates what needs to be addressed, brings the Lord's calling to our attention, and influences every aspect of our lives. The Holy Spirit seals us and works within us so that we may embody the signet of God.
QUESTIONS
How does understanding the sealing of the Holy Spirit provide greater understanding of hope found in the Lord?
When you consider the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, how would you explain the indwelling as a deposit of what lies ahead?
