Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "Sealing of the Holy Spirit" is a significant theological theme within the New Testament, particularly in the context of the believer's relationship with Christ. This sealing is understood as a divine act that signifies ownership, protection, and authenticity, marking the believer as belonging to God through Christ.Biblical Foundation The sealing of the Holy Spirit is prominently mentioned in the Pauline epistles. In Ephesians 1:13-14 , the Apostle Paul writes, "And in Him, having heard and believed the word of truth—the gospel of your salvation—you were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the pledge of our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession, to the praise of His glory." This passage highlights the sequence of hearing, believing, and then being sealed, indicating that the sealing is a result of faith in Christ. Christ as the Receiver of the Spirit The sealing of the Holy Spirit is intrinsically linked to the person and work of Jesus Christ. In the Gospel accounts, Jesus is depicted as the one who receives the Spirit in a unique and unparalleled manner. At His baptism, as recorded in Matthew 3:16 , "As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water. Suddenly the heavens were opened, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and resting on Him." This event signifies the anointing of Jesus by the Holy Spirit, marking the commencement of His public ministry. The Role of Christ in the Believer's Sealing Christ's reception of the Holy Spirit is foundational for the believer's experience of being sealed. Through His death, resurrection, and ascension, Jesus secured the promise of the Spirit for His followers. In John 16:7 , Jesus assures His disciples, "But I tell you the truth, it is for your benefit that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you." The sending of the Holy Spirit is thus contingent upon Christ's completed work and His exaltation. Theological Implications The sealing of the Holy Spirit serves as a guarantee of the believer's inheritance in Christ. It is a mark of divine ownership, as stated in 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 : "Now it is God who establishes both us and you in Christ. He anointed us, placed His seal on us, and put His Spirit in our hearts as a pledge of what is to come." This sealing assures believers of their secure position in Christ and the future fulfillment of God's promises. Practical Outworking The sealing of the Holy Spirit also has practical implications for the believer's life. It is a source of assurance and confidence, knowing that one is marked by God and set apart for His purposes. Furthermore, it empowers believers to live in accordance with their identity in Christ, as the Spirit works within to produce spiritual fruit and guide them in truth. In summary, the sealing of the Holy Spirit is a profound aspect of the believer's union with Christ, rooted in His reception of the Spirit and His redemptive work. It signifies the believer's secure position in God's family and the ongoing work of the Spirit in their lives. Torrey's Topical Textbook John 6:27Labor not for the meat which perishes, but for that meat which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give to you: for him has God the Father sealed. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Internal Witness of the Holy Spirit Fifteenth Day. The Holy Spirit. Other New Testament Names for "Being Filled with the Spirit. " A Word to Workers On Christian Liberty The Doctrine of the Holy Spirit The Synodal Letter. The Apostolic Scriptures. On the Sufficiency and Perfection of the Holy Scriptures In The Great Commission Resources What was the significance of the sprinkling of blood? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the definitions of some common theological terms? | GotQuestions.org What is the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives today? | GotQuestions.org Sealing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Sealing of the Holy Spirit is to the Day of Redemption Sealing of the Holy Spirit: Christ Received Sealing of the Holy Spirit: Judgment Suspended Until all Saints Receive Sealing of the Holy Spirit: Saints Receive Sealing of the Holy Spirit: The Wicked do not Receive Sealing of the Holy Spirit: Typified Related Terms |
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