Published by Vince Baker Ministries ·
“In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise,”
Ephesians 1:13 · KJV
Why does Paul connect hearing, believing, and sealing?
Ephesians 1:13 places the seal in the context of hearing the gospel and trusting Christ. Paul's emphasis is the promise God makes to believers. Their future rests on God's faithfulness, which He has already begun to make known by giving the Spirit.
What is the practical meaning of a pledge?
A pledge points forward to fulfillment. Second Corinthians 5 puts it beside the hope of life beyond death. Ephesians 4 puts it beside everyday choices about anger and speech. The same gift assures us about our future and calls us to treat others differently now.
Put it into practice
Read Ephesians 1:13–14 and 4:29–32 together. Thank God for His promise, then speak one word of encouragement to someone who needs it.
Read the Scripture passages
- Ephesians 1:3-14 · KJV
- Ephesians 4:25-32 · KJV
- 2 Corinthians 1:18-22 · KJV
- 2 Corinthians 5:1-5 · KJV
