Sealed and Guaranteed

Ephesians 1:13-14 NIV

"And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory."

Ever put down a deposit on something you wanted?  My wife and I have bought two homes and put deposits down on both.  We have put deposits down on several things as an act of good faith towards a purchase.  It was our mark on what we wanted.  It meant no one else had a right to our claim. 

When we accept the news about Jesus as the truth, we are making a choice to follow Him and receive the life He offers.  We are included.  We are not left out.  We are not the last one picked nor best of the best.  We were chosen first by Christ when we believe. 

Jesus put down a deposit for us by dying in our place for the sin in our life.  He paid the price and proved He had the means to pay by returning to life after His death.  He is alive.  To assure us of this life He sends His Holy Spirit to seal us or become a part of our life.  The Spirit is the deposit guaranteeing our future life in the heaven for eternity. 

We belong to God.  He wants us in His life.  He paid the price for our lives and gives us a guarantee that He will follow through on His plans.  As the world changes people have a more difficult time accepting this.  That is why His Spirit is here.

In Pentecostal worship, we try to follow the leading of the Spirit (I know other Christians also try following His leading but I want to give a Pentecostal viewpoint).  We believe in the outward expression of the Spirit.  Yes, this includes speaking in tongues and other outward gifts of the Spirit.  Paul tells us that these are signs for unbelievers and for believers alike, and I think we need these signs now more than ever as atheistic movements are establishing a firm foothold in various countries - countries once established in Christ. 

I am but one voice yet I also believe when the truth is shared more will have faith in the message about Jesus.  Twelve apostles spread the word and the world changed. We do not have the luxury of sitting on the fence. 

I also believe we cannot hide the Spirit like a treasure buried in our backyard.  We do not have wear Him like a badge of honor pinned to our shirts either.  We just need to be more aware of His role in our faith walk.  This is what Paul wanted for the Ephesians. 

Ephesians 1:17 NIV - "I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better."

Let the Spirit help you know the Father better.  Let the Spirit impart truth and wisdom into your life.  Open yourself to the fact that you are sealed by the Spirit as a guarantee to a future inheritance.   The Spirit of God will reveal more to this life and the life to come.  Trust in Him.  That is Christ's gift to you.