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Daily Devotions

Ephesians

Ephesians 
Day 
Day 36

"Who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory."

Text: Ephesians 1:14

THE HOLY SPIRIT AS OUR GUARANTEE (“arrabon”)

The Holy Spirit plays many vital roles in God’s plan of salvation. The first role of the Holy Spirit of promise is that of being God’s Seal. The second role is akin to the first one. He is our “guarantee” (“arrabon”). This word has an interesting history.

1. Originally a commercial term

An “arrabon” was essentially a “deposit” that one paid towards a purchase. Other words that could be used would include “down payment” or “pledge”.

2. A legal term

The “arrabon” gave the buyer the right to say that the intended purchase now belongs to him.

3. A theological term

This term may be said to be a “loan word” that took on theological significance in Pauline theology.

4. In combination with the word “seal” (“sphragis”)

These two words “Seal” and “Guarantee” give us a tremendous sense of security that when we truly believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, we are truly His forever!

Paul used these words quite consistently in his writings. In a letter to the Corinthian Church he wrote,

“Now He who establishes us with you in Christ
and has anointed us is God, who also has
sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts
as a guarantee.”
2 CORINTHIANS 1:21-22

The Holy Spirit was once again described as both “seal” and “guarantee”.

UNTIL THE REDEMPTION OF THE PURCHASED POSSESSION

God’s plan of redemption is complex. There are many aspects in His plan of redemption. In this particular context, Paul brought in a special way of viewing our redemption.

1. We are called “the purchased possession”.

2. God has paid a deposit on us {The Holy Spirit Himself is our “guarantee” (“arrabon”)}.

3. This transaction will be complete only when we finally arrive in God’s abode (heaven).

How may we know that we truly have salvation in the Lord Jesus Christ? Our new life in Christ will evidence the work of salvation that God has wrought in us!