8.3.1 Concerning the term "sealing"

The term "sealing" refers to the use of a seal. Important documents are certified and given authority by means of a seal. It documents authenticity. Confidential documents are closed with a seal. Owners designate their property with a seal. A seal is a guarantee that the authority behind it assures protection and integrity.

These aspects of the word's meaning are also reflected in the designation for the sacrament of baptism with the Spirit. Furthermore, in the epistles of the New Testament, "being sealed" is understood to mean receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit:

  • "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).

  • "In Him [Christ] you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit" (Ephesians 1: 13).

  • "And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption" (Ephesians 4: 30).

The book of Revelation also contains references to sealing as a mark of ownership or as an eschatological sign of salvation (Revelation 7: 3; 22: 4).