Verse
Context
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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Who hath also sealed us - Not only deeply impressed His truth and image upon our hearts; but, by the miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit, attested the truth of our extraordinary unction or calling to the ministry. And given the earnest of the Spirit - Τον αρραβωνα του Πνευματος. From this unction and sealing we have a clear testimony in our souls, the Divine Spirit dwelling constantly in us, of our acceptance with God, and that our ways please him. The αρῥαβων of the apostle is the same as the ערבן erabon of Moses, Gen 38:17, Gen 38:18, Gen 38:20, which we there translate pledge. The word properly signifies an earnest of something promised; a part of the price agreed for between a buyer and seller, by giving and receiving of which the bargain was ratified; or a deposit, which was to be restored when the thing promised was given. From the use of the term in Genesis, which the apostle puts here in Greek letters, we may at once see his meaning above, and in Eph 1:14; the Holy Spirit being an earnest in the heart, and an earnest of the promised inheritance means a security given in hand for the fulfillment of all God's promises relative to grace and eternal life. We may learn from this, that eternal life will be given in the great day to all who can produce the arrhabon, or pledge. He who is found then with the earnest of God's Spirit in his heart, shall not only be saved from death, but have that eternal life of which it is the pledge, the earnest, and the evidence. Without this arrhabon there can be no glory. See the whole case of Judah and Tamar, Gen 38:15 (note), etc., and the notes there.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
sealed--A seal is a token assuring the possession of property to one; "sealed" here answers to "stablisheth us" (Co2 1:21; Co1 9:2). the earnest of the Spirit--that is, the Spirit as the earnest (that is, money given by a purchaser as a pledge for the full payment of the sum promised). The Holy Spirit is given to the believer now as a first instalment to assure him his full inheritance as a son of God shall be his hereafter (Eph 1:13-14). "Sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession" (Rom 8:23). The Spirit is the pledge of the fulfilment of "all the promises" (Co2 1:20).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Who hath also sealed us,.... "Two" things more are here attributed to God; "first", the sealing of his people. The use of seals is various, as to denote property in things, to distinguish one thing from another, to show esteem and affection for persons or things, and for security and protection, and to hide and conceal; all which might be applied to sealing, as expressive of the grace of God to his people, in claiming a property in them, distinguishing them from the rest of the world, setting his affections on them, securing and protecting their persons, and hiding them under the shadow of his wings: but sometimes a seal is used to certify, make sure, or assure the truth of a thing; see Joh 3:33 in which sense the word "sealing" is used here, and intends that assurance which God gives his people of their interest in his love, and the covenant of grace; of their election of God, and redemption by Christ; of their interest in Christ, and union with him; of their justification by him, and adoption through him; of the truth of grace in their hearts, their perseverance in it, and sure and certain enjoyment of eternal glory. The persons thus sealed are not carnal and unconverted persons, only believers in Christ, and these, after they commence such; the seal by which they are sealed, is not any of the ordinances, as circumcision under the Old Testament, or baptism, or the Lord's supper under the New; for these are no seals, nor are they ever so called; but the Spirit of God himself, as the Holy Spirit of promise; for the same who, in the next clause, is called the earnest, is the seal; see Eph 1:13. "Secondly", the giving of the earnest of the Spirit: and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts: by "the Spirit" is meant, not the gifts and graces of the Spirit merely, but the Spirit of God and Christ himself; who was concerned in the creation of the world, in inditing the Scriptures, in forming and filling the human nature of Christ, and in his resurrection from the dead; he himself is given as an "earnest": the word here used, and in Co2 5:5 is the Hebrew word and comes from which signifies "to become a surety, to give a pledge"; and is used for a pledge in covenants and bargains, both in Scripture, see Gen 38:17, and in Jewish writings (d); which is given as an earnest, and in part of what it is a pledge of, and is never returned: the Spirit of God is an earnest or pledge of the heavenly inheritance, which is not only prepared for us, and promised to us, and Christ is in the possession of in our nature, in our room and stead, and as our representative; but the Spirit of God also is sent down "into our hearts" as a pledge of it; where he dwells as in his temple, supplies us with all grace, witnesses to us our sonship, and assures us of the heavenly glory: and as such he is "given"; and an unmerited free grace gift he is; for him to be given in this manner, and for such a purpose, is a wonderful display of the love of the Father, and of the Son, and is a surprising instance of his grace and condescension of the Spirit, and for which we should be abundantly thankful. (d) Midrash Megillath Esther, fol. 94. 2. Maimon. Hilch. Mechira, c. 7. sect. 1. & c. 11. sect. 4.
Paul’s Change of Plans
21Now it is God who establishes both us and you in Christ. He anointed us,22placed His seal on us, and put His Spirit in our hearts as a pledge of what is to come.23I call God as my witness that it was in order to spare you that I did not return to Corinth.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Witness of the Spirit - Part 2
By Paris Reidhead4.0K19:22Witness Of The SpiritFellowship With GodThe Witness of the SpiritJHN 1:12JHN 14:17ROM 8:152CO 1:22GAL 4:6EPH 2:18HEB 10:221JN 3:241JN 5:10Paris Reidhead emphasizes the necessity of genuine fellowship with God, contrasting it with the superficiality of modern evangelism. He challenges listeners to reflect on their personal relationship with God, urging them to seek true communion rather than mere discussions about Him. Reidhead shares the poignant story of David Brainerd, who expressed deep concern for the souls of those he preached to, highlighting the importance of ensuring that faith is genuine and not based on false assumptions. He concludes with a call for believers to recognize the Spirit's witness in their hearts, affirming their identity as children of God and encouraging them to live out their faith authentically.
Havner at Moody
By Vance Havner1.5K39:54ConferenceGEN 15:1JOS 1:2PSA 30:5PSA 127:2ISA 64:42CO 1:22HEB 11:6HEB 12:6The sermon transcript discusses the idea that God does not reveal all the details of what is to come in order to prevent us from being distracted from our current responsibilities and challenges. The speaker uses the analogy of a boy being tempted by a chocolate cake while eating spinach to illustrate this point. The sermon also emphasizes the importance of recognizing and wrestling against the powers of darkness, comparing it to the intensity of a wrestling match. The speaker encourages listeners to be aware of their adversary and to rejoice in the blessings they have in Jesus Christ. The sermon concludes with the reminder to learn from our troubles and to close the door behind us, referencing the story of Mr. Lloyd George closing a gate behind him.
Under the Juniper Tree
By Vance Havner70738:04Christian LifeGEN 15:1PSA 84:10MAT 6:332CO 1:22PHP 3:8HEB 11:6HEB 12:6The sermon transcript discusses the idea that God does not reveal all the details of what is to come in order to prevent us from being distracted or overwhelmed. The speaker uses the analogy of a child being tempted by a chocolate cake while eating spinach to illustrate this point. The transcript also touches on the importance of letting go of past troubles and focusing on the present. The speaker shares their personal experience with sleeplessness and how it taught them not to take things for granted. Additionally, the transcript mentions the concept of experiencing a foretaste of heaven in the present through faith in God.
Substituted Standards
By Major Ian Thomas151:16:14True Holiness vs. Substituted StandardsThe Role of the Holy SpiritEXO 12:13NUM 16:3JHN 1:6JHN 10:10ACT 13:2ROM 8:41CO 12:132CO 1:22EPH 1:13HEB 9:4Major Ian Thomas emphasizes the significance of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer, contrasting the true Christian experience with a mere religious practice. He illustrates how the Israelites, despite being redeemed from Egypt, failed to enter the fullness of God's provision, symbolizing the struggle many face in living out their faith. Thomas highlights that true holiness cannot be defined by personal standards but must align with God's standards, as demonstrated through the story of Korah's rebellion. He stresses that only a ministry empowered by the Holy Spirit can endure beyond the individual, as seen in the example of Aaron's rod that budded. Ultimately, he calls for believers to recognize the necessity of being sent by the Holy Spirit to fulfill their divine purpose.
Deeply Personal
By A.W. Tozer1Authentic FaithInner WitnessPSA 51:10JHN 14:17JHN 16:13ROM 8:161CO 2:122CO 1:22GAL 4:6EPH 1:13HEB 10:221JN 5:10A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of the inner witness of the Holy Spirit for true Christian assurance, arguing that many believers today are weak and uncertain due to a lack of this profound experience. He critiques the tendency of some Christian workers to simplify the process of coming to faith into a formulaic approach, which can lead to superficial conversions devoid of genuine inner conviction. Tozer expresses that the complexities of spiritual life cannot be reduced to mere techniques or manipulative practices, as this undermines the authenticity of one's relationship with God. He calls for a deeper understanding and experience of faith that transcends mere intellectual assent or emotional manipulation.
The Witness of the Spirit - Part 2
By John Wesley0Witness Of The SpiritAssurance of SalvationPSA 51:12JHN 14:26JHN 16:13ROM 8:161CO 2:122CO 1:22GAL 4:6EPH 1:131TH 5:191JN 5:11John Wesley emphasizes the critical role of the Holy Spirit in affirming our identity as children of God, as stated in Romans 8:16. He warns against the dangers of both formalism and enthusiasm, advocating for a balanced understanding of the Spirit's witness. Wesley explains that the Spirit testifies directly to our spirits, assuring us of our reconciliation with God and the forgiveness of our sins. He argues that this direct testimony is essential for true assurance of salvation, which is often misunderstood or neglected. Ultimately, Wesley encourages believers to seek this witness of the Spirit, which brings peace and joy, and to recognize that it is foundational to their faith.
Security
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0JHN 10:28JHN 17:9ROM 5:8ROM 8:312CO 1:22EPH 4:30PHP 2:131JN 2:2Lewis Sperry Chafer delves into the doctrine of eternal security, emphasizing the importance of understanding that once a person is saved, they can never be lost again. He addresses the misconceptions and misinterpretations of 'insecurity passages' in the Bible, highlighting that the believer's security is based on the unchangeable promises, power, and love of God. Chafer explains how the death, resurrection, intercession, and advocacy of Christ, along with the work of the Spirit, ensure the believer's eternal security, emphasizing that God's divine nature within the believer can never be disannulled.
The Person of the Holy Spirit
By John F. Walvoord0EXO 27:20MAT 3:11LUK 24:49JHN 3:8JHN 4:14JHN 14:16ACT 2:22CO 1:22EPH 1:13John F. Walvoord delves into the Doctrine of the Holy Spirit, covering major divisions such as the Personality, Deity, Procession, Titles, and Types of the Holy Spirit. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the Person of the Holy Spirit as foundational to all theological truth, contrary to the current trend focusing solely on His work. The sermon explores the Personality of the Holy Spirit, affirming it through His attributes, works, use of personal pronouns, and recognition by believers. It further delves into the Deity of the Holy Spirit, establishing His eternal procession from the Father and the Son, and affirming His deity through various scriptural identifications and associations with God and Christ. The sermon also discusses the Titles of the Holy Spirit, revealing His relationships, attributes, and works through various biblical references. Lastly, it touches on the Types of the Holy Spirit, using symbolic representations like clothing, dove, earnest, fire, oil, seal, water, and wind to illustrate the Spirit's characteristics and ministries.
On Grieving the Holy Spirit
By John Wesley0Grieving the Holy SpiritSpiritual GrowthPSA 51:11ISA 63:10JHN 14:26ROM 8:161CO 6:192CO 1:22GAL 5:22EPH 4:301TH 5:19HEB 10:29John Wesley emphasizes the importance of not grieving the Holy Spirit, who is essential for our spiritual growth and sanctification. He explains that grieving the Spirit occurs through our sins, particularly through inconsiderateness and presumptuous actions that defy God's will. Wesley highlights that the Holy Spirit's presence is a seal of our redemption, and by sinning, we risk losing this divine assurance and relationship. He urges believers to recognize the gravity of their actions and the profound love of the Holy Spirit, who desires to guide and transform us. Ultimately, Wesley calls for a deep awareness of our spiritual state and a commitment to live in harmony with the Holy Spirit's leading.
Pneumatology: The Holy Spirit
By Greg Herrick0MAT 1:18JHN 3:8JHN 7:37JHN 14:16ACT 2:3ACT 5:31CO 12:112CO 1:22EPH 1:14EPH 4:30Greg Herrick delves into the term 'pneumatology,' which focuses on the study of the biblical doctrine of the Holy Spirit, covering aspects like the personality and deity of the Spirit, as well as his work throughout Scripture. The sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing the Holy Spirit as a divine person, distinct from mere 'active force,' and explores various biblical evidence supporting the Spirit's personhood and deity. It also discusses Scriptural metaphors for the Holy Spirit, highlighting his roles as an enabler, comforter, and guide in the lives of believers.
The Churches Increased.
By Edward Payson0PSA 16:11ISA 44:3ACT 9:31ROM 8:15ROM 15:131CO 14:252CO 1:22GAL 5:221TH 1:5HEB 12:28Edward Payson preaches about the importance of churches walking in the fear of God and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost. He highlights the rarity and pleasure of seeing the church enjoying rest and utilizing it properly to be edified and multiplied. Payson emphasizes that walking in the fear of God involves veneration for God, humble submission to His authority, and a holy jealousy to avoid displeasing Him. Walking in the comfort of the Holy Ghost includes experiencing peace of conscience, a strong hope of adoption, and foretastes of heavenly joys. Payson urges believers to live in a manner that convinces others of the reality and desirability of religion, drawing down God's blessings and potentially leading to great additions of saved souls in churches.
Really a Work of Grace or Not?
By Anne Dutton0PSA 51:10ISA 54:5JHN 4:14JHN 6:37ROM 8:12CO 1:22EPH 1:13HEB 6:191PE 1:8Anne Dutton preaches to a brother in the Lord, affirming the work of God upon his soul as a true work of grace. She highlights the signs of grace in his life, such as being weaned from sinful delights, conviction of sin, dependence on Christ's righteousness, and embracing Jesus as Savior. Anne addresses the brother's objections about lacking certain experiences like deep terrors of conscience, overflowing joys in believing, inward troubles, and gradual progress, reassuring him that God works uniquely in each believer. She encourages him to seek the sealing of the Spirit for greater assurance and joy in Christ, emphasizing the intimate love relationship believers have with Jesus.
The Field of Clover
By H. P. Barker0JHN 14:26ACT 1:8ROM 8:161CO 2:102CO 1:222CO 5:5GAL 5:22EPH 1:13EPH 4:30H. P. Barker preaches about the significance of the Holy Spirit as the 'earnest' given to believers, providing comfort, assurance, and a foretaste of our heavenly inheritance. Using the analogy of a telescope given to a boy on a voyage, the Holy Spirit grants believers a clearer spiritual vision of the eternal promises awaiting them. Just as a farmer prepares a field of clover for his sheep, the Holy Spirit prepares believers for their heavenly home by allowing them to experience glimpses of their future inheritance now.
Pentecost Restored What Paradise Lost
By Andrew Murray0Dependence On GodHoly SpiritJHN 14:17JHN 15:5ACT 2:4ROM 8:261CO 2:122CO 1:22GAL 5:22EPH 3:16PHP 2:131JN 4:13Andrew Murray emphasizes the necessity of recognizing our spiritual ignorance and the impotence of mere intellectual knowledge in our relationship with God. He encourages believers to humbly depend on the Holy Spirit, understanding that true communion with God requires a surrender of our own wisdom and righteousness. As one becomes aware of the Spirit's indwelling, there is a profound realization of dependence on the Father, mirroring the example of Jesus. Murray asserts that Pentecost restored the divine presence in believers, enabling them to yield to God's will and receive the gifts He freely offers. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper reverence and trust in the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.
The Privileges of the Believer
By Thomas Reade0MAT 7:21JHN 14:16JHN 16:13ROM 8:161CO 3:212CO 1:22GAL 5:22EPH 1:13EPH 4:30Thomas Reade preaches on 'The Privileges of the Believer,' emphasizing the inconceivable goodness of God towards believers, assuring them of His love, protection, and provision. Believers are reminded of their amazing privilege as heirs of God through Christ, inheriting all blessings and glory. The sermon delves into the work of the Holy Spirit in convicting of sin, revealing Christ as Savior, guiding into truth, and providing comfort and strength. Believers are encouraged to seek the Spirit's presence, transformation, and sanctification, and to cherish His godly motions to avoid grieving Him.
The Only Good Life
By James Blaine Chapman0MAT 25:14LUK 12:16JHN 14:27ROM 15:132CO 1:22PHP 4:71TI 4:81PE 1:3James Blaine Chapman preaches about the contrast between a life focused on worldly pursuits, which ultimately profit little, and a life centered on godliness, which is beneficial in this life and the one to come. He emphasizes the importance of investing one's life wisely, either in pursuing bodily exercise without Christ or in embracing godliness through a faithful Christian life. Chapman highlights that true fulfillment and lasting joy come from being a Christian, experiencing peace, joy, love, and hope that surpass worldly pleasures and possessions. He concludes by pointing out that being a Christian not only brings blessings in the present world but also offers the assurance of a heavenly home and eternal life.
The Earnest of the Spirit in Our Hearts
By A.B. Simpson0EarnestnessEmpowerment of the Holy SpiritJHN 14:16ACT 1:8ROM 8:262CO 1:22GAL 5:22EPH 1:13PHP 3:141TH 5:19HEB 12:11PE 4:10A.B. Simpson emphasizes the significance of living life earnestly, drawing inspiration from the life of Jesus and His apostles. He illustrates that while many good things may exist, they lack the binding power of earnestness, which is essential for a life of consistency and lasting impact. Simpson passionately calls for the baptism of the Holy Spirit to empower believers to live with a singular focus on love, sacrifice, and perseverance, mirroring Christ's heart. He encourages the congregation to embrace their sacred trust and remain steadfast in their divine mission, finding joy in being counted on by the Lord.
We Have Peace With God
By Jonathan Edwards0JHN 14:27ROM 5:12CO 1:22EPH 1:13HEB 6:17Jonathan Edwards preaches about the profound concept of having peace with God, emphasizing the nature of this peace, how it is attained, its distinguishing marks, the benefits it brings, and the necessary steps to obtain and enjoy it. He delves into the real and sensible aspects of peace with God, highlighting the believer's reconciliation and favor with the Creator, as well as the inward calm and quietness of soul that arises from a sense of union with God. Edwards also discusses the divine sources of this peace, the role of Christ's sacrifice, the union with Christ through faith, and the sanctification process that leads to a tangible peace with God.
He Dwelleth With You, and Shall Be in You
By A.B. Simpson0Holy SpiritAbiding PresenceJHN 14:17JHN 15:4ACT 1:8ROM 8:91CO 3:162CO 1:22GAL 2:20EPH 2:22COL 1:271JN 4:13A.B. Simpson emphasizes the two critical stages in the Christian life: the initial work of the Holy Spirit in regeneration and the deeper experience of the Spirit's abiding presence within us. He illustrates the difference between merely having the Spirit's influence and allowing Him to take full residence in our hearts as the Owner and Keeper. Simpson encourages believers to invite the Holy Spirit not just as a guest but as the one who controls and transforms our entire being. This profound relationship with the Holy Spirit leads to a life filled with joy and purpose, as Christ makes our hearts His home.
Thou Message From the Skies! Ray for the Rayless Heart!
By Phoebe Palmer0LUK 14:28ROM 6:192CO 1:22HEB 13:201PE 1:15Phoebe Palmer preaches about the journey of consecration and surrender to God, emphasizing the importance of counting the cost and entering into an everlasting covenant with the Lord. Through deliberate resolve and a hallowed sense of consecration, one can experience a deep conviction of being wholly the Lord's and a divine assurance of being recognized in heaven. This journey leads to a state of being 'wholly thine,' where every tie to earth is severed, and the heart is fully surrendered to God, realizing that true holiness is found in complete devotion and conformity to the will of God.
On Adoption
By Thomas Reade0ROM 8:14ROM 8:232CO 1:22GAL 3:26GAL 4:4EPH 1:51JN 3:1Thomas Reade preaches on the blessings of redemption, emphasizing the infinite and eternal nature of God's gifts of grace and the gratitude we should have towards Jesus. He discusses the Spirit of adoption, highlighting the importance of filial affections towards God and the peace and joy that come with feeling like a child of God. Reade also addresses the need for genuine joy rooted in the Spirit's witness, cautioning against counterfeit graces and emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's will as a true foundation for our faith and comfort.
1 Peter 1:9
By John Gill0SalvationJoy in FaithPRO 23:18ROM 8:242CO 1:22EPH 1:13EPH 2:8PHP 3:20COL 3:1HEB 11:11PE 1:91PE 1:18John Gill expounds on 1 Peter 1:9, emphasizing that the ultimate goal of faith is the salvation of souls, which is a profound source of joy. This salvation, appointed by God from eternity, is obtained through Christ and applied by the Spirit, leading to eternal happiness in heaven. Gill clarifies that while salvation primarily concerns the soul, it also encompasses the body, as both will be redeemed and united with Christ. He highlights that faith is not the cause of salvation but a means to perceive and enjoy it, culminating in the full realization of salvation. The present experience of salvation brings joy and assurance to believers, as they possess the beginnings and promises of their eternal inheritance.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Who hath also sealed us - Not only deeply impressed His truth and image upon our hearts; but, by the miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit, attested the truth of our extraordinary unction or calling to the ministry. And given the earnest of the Spirit - Τον αρραβωνα του Πνευματος. From this unction and sealing we have a clear testimony in our souls, the Divine Spirit dwelling constantly in us, of our acceptance with God, and that our ways please him. The αρῥαβων of the apostle is the same as the ערבן erabon of Moses, Gen 38:17, Gen 38:18, Gen 38:20, which we there translate pledge. The word properly signifies an earnest of something promised; a part of the price agreed for between a buyer and seller, by giving and receiving of which the bargain was ratified; or a deposit, which was to be restored when the thing promised was given. From the use of the term in Genesis, which the apostle puts here in Greek letters, we may at once see his meaning above, and in Eph 1:14; the Holy Spirit being an earnest in the heart, and an earnest of the promised inheritance means a security given in hand for the fulfillment of all God's promises relative to grace and eternal life. We may learn from this, that eternal life will be given in the great day to all who can produce the arrhabon, or pledge. He who is found then with the earnest of God's Spirit in his heart, shall not only be saved from death, but have that eternal life of which it is the pledge, the earnest, and the evidence. Without this arrhabon there can be no glory. See the whole case of Judah and Tamar, Gen 38:15 (note), etc., and the notes there.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
sealed--A seal is a token assuring the possession of property to one; "sealed" here answers to "stablisheth us" (Co2 1:21; Co1 9:2). the earnest of the Spirit--that is, the Spirit as the earnest (that is, money given by a purchaser as a pledge for the full payment of the sum promised). The Holy Spirit is given to the believer now as a first instalment to assure him his full inheritance as a son of God shall be his hereafter (Eph 1:13-14). "Sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession" (Rom 8:23). The Spirit is the pledge of the fulfilment of "all the promises" (Co2 1:20).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Who hath also sealed us,.... "Two" things more are here attributed to God; "first", the sealing of his people. The use of seals is various, as to denote property in things, to distinguish one thing from another, to show esteem and affection for persons or things, and for security and protection, and to hide and conceal; all which might be applied to sealing, as expressive of the grace of God to his people, in claiming a property in them, distinguishing them from the rest of the world, setting his affections on them, securing and protecting their persons, and hiding them under the shadow of his wings: but sometimes a seal is used to certify, make sure, or assure the truth of a thing; see Joh 3:33 in which sense the word "sealing" is used here, and intends that assurance which God gives his people of their interest in his love, and the covenant of grace; of their election of God, and redemption by Christ; of their interest in Christ, and union with him; of their justification by him, and adoption through him; of the truth of grace in their hearts, their perseverance in it, and sure and certain enjoyment of eternal glory. The persons thus sealed are not carnal and unconverted persons, only believers in Christ, and these, after they commence such; the seal by which they are sealed, is not any of the ordinances, as circumcision under the Old Testament, or baptism, or the Lord's supper under the New; for these are no seals, nor are they ever so called; but the Spirit of God himself, as the Holy Spirit of promise; for the same who, in the next clause, is called the earnest, is the seal; see Eph 1:13. "Secondly", the giving of the earnest of the Spirit: and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts: by "the Spirit" is meant, not the gifts and graces of the Spirit merely, but the Spirit of God and Christ himself; who was concerned in the creation of the world, in inditing the Scriptures, in forming and filling the human nature of Christ, and in his resurrection from the dead; he himself is given as an "earnest": the word here used, and in Co2 5:5 is the Hebrew word and comes from which signifies "to become a surety, to give a pledge"; and is used for a pledge in covenants and bargains, both in Scripture, see Gen 38:17, and in Jewish writings (d); which is given as an earnest, and in part of what it is a pledge of, and is never returned: the Spirit of God is an earnest or pledge of the heavenly inheritance, which is not only prepared for us, and promised to us, and Christ is in the possession of in our nature, in our room and stead, and as our representative; but the Spirit of God also is sent down "into our hearts" as a pledge of it; where he dwells as in his temple, supplies us with all grace, witnesses to us our sonship, and assures us of the heavenly glory: and as such he is "given"; and an unmerited free grace gift he is; for him to be given in this manner, and for such a purpose, is a wonderful display of the love of the Father, and of the Son, and is a surprising instance of his grace and condescension of the Spirit, and for which we should be abundantly thankful. (d) Midrash Megillath Esther, fol. 94. 2. Maimon. Hilch. Mechira, c. 7. sect. 1. & c. 11. sect. 4.