Spiritual Blessings in ChristSample

Inheritance and Seal of the Holy Spirit

In this devotional, Paul continues to guide us through the rich theology of Ephesians 1, shedding light on the concept of predestination, inheritance, and the seal of the Holy Spirit. He states that, in Christ, we were "predestined" to be heirs, a term that carries great significance and reveals God's profound plan for our salvation.

The word "predestined," used by Paul, comes from the Greek term proorizo, which means "to determine beforehand" or "to decide in advance." In the biblical context, this word suggests that God, in His sovereignty, planned our destiny before the foundation of the world. This does not mean that God overruled our freedom of choice, but that He, knowing all things, determined a purpose and a destiny for those who would be in Christ. This predestination is an act of God's love and grace, who chose His children for an eternal relationship with Him, not because of our works, but according to His purpose and sovereign will.

Paul continues to speak about our "inheritance" in Christ. The Greek word used here is kleronomia, which refers to that which is received as a family right or as a guaranteed possession. In the Old Testament, inheritance often referred to the promised land, the physical and tangible possession that God gave to His people, Israel. In the New Testament, however, the concept of inheritance expands to include the spiritual and eternal promises that God makes to believers. In Christ, our inheritance is much more than land or a physical asset; it is a share in the kingdom of God, an inheritance that is incorruptible, undefiled, and does not fade away. This inheritance is eternal life, the constant presence of God, and all the spiritual blessings in the heavenly places.

In addition to being predestined and heirs, Paul speaks to us about the "seal" of the Holy Spirit. The Greek word for "seal" is sphragis, which denotes a mark of ownership or authenticity. In the ancient world, a seal was an official mark placed on a letter, document, or property to indicate who owned or had authenticated that item. Similarly, the Holy Spirit is God's seal upon our lives, indicating that we belong to Him. This seal of the Spirit is the guarantee of our inheritance; it is a mark that we are genuinely children of God and that we are secure in His hands.

This seal also serves as a "pledge" or guarantee of our future inheritance. The Greek term for "pledge" is arrabon, which was used in commerce to refer to an initial payment that guaranteed full payment later. The Holy Spirit is this arrabon — God's guarantee that He will complete the work He has begun in us. He is the promise that our redemption will be fully realized and that one day we will fully possess our heavenly inheritance.

Understanding that we were predestined, that we have a guaranteed inheritance, and that we were sealed with the Holy Spirit gives us deep security and hope. We know that our lives are in God's hands and that He is faithful to fulfill His promises. Our response to these truths should be a life of praise and gratitude, living according to God's calling and fully trusting His sovereign plan for us.