A Note from Our Pastor:

“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

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

The Apostle writing to a largely gentile audience now transitions from the work of God to the work of man. Prior to this, it has been well established that each and every aspect of our eternal salvation is the work of the Godhead completed in the legal work of Jesus Christ upon the cross.

The Apostle says that the events he is going to describe took place or take place for future believers, after you hear the word of truth. While Paul’s writing is complex at times, here he is straightforward in referring to the hearing of the preaching of the gospel. The Jews had heard the prophecies of Jesus Christ if they had listened, but the gentiles are for the first time receiving the message of Jesus Christ.

The role of the Holy Spirit writing the laws of God in our hearts at the moment of regeneration is not being downplayed, but there is a special moment when you hear the gospel and understand the mechanics and the why of your salvation. This verse says that moment is when you begin to strive to trust fully in God.

It is after believing and trusting that ye are sealed with a promise. That promise is the hope of eternal salvation. It is not a wish, nor a longing, but a hope founded in the work of an almighty God. That promise provides assurance. It seals you from the threats of this world in the love of Jesus Christ.

It is because of that promise, that seal, that the Apostle could also instruct that we should grieve not as others. The promise is greater than any grief.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah