The Divine Work of the Holy Spirit: Part 11 - Sealing of the Holy Spirit

TBC Glassboro Sermons and More · The Divine Work Of The Holy Spirit: Part 11 - Sealing

In the Ancient Near East, a seal (ḥôṯām / ḥāṯam) served several purposes.  First, a seal was given as a pledge or promise to do something.  As such, it offered security.  Second, a seal authenticated legal documents, such as deeds establishing property ownership.  Third, a seal authorized appointed power.

At the moment of salvation, the Holy Spirit indwells believers and seals them.

• having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, - Ephesians 1:13
  

That God sealed us with the Holy Spirit demonstrates that the sealing was done to believers.  There is no command to believers to be sealed.  Because believers are sealed, they are eternally secured.

Being sealed with the Holy Spirit indicates that believers belong to God.

• you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit… with a view to the redemption of God’s own possession, - Ephesians 1:13-14
  
• Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal, The Lord knows those who are His, - 2 Timothy 2:19

By sealing believers with the Holy Spirit, God lays a claim of ownership upon them.  Because believers belong to Him, He is their God and they are His people.  That believers are sealed until the day redemption guarantees that no believers will be lost.

• Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.                - Ephesians 4:30  

Because believers are sealed with the Holy Spirit, they are deputized as ambassadors of Christ.

• Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ… - Ephesians 5:20

Believers have been granted the authority to speak on behalf of God, preaching, teaching, and defending His Word.