The Guarantee: A Thought on Our Eternal Security in Christ

Are you a Christian who understands and believes the Gospel and follows Christ - but you still struggle with doubts about your salvation? 

Remember... Satan doesn't torment the unsaved with these kind of thoughts...only the saved. Ironically it’s proof that you are indeed saved. Keep going back to the promises of God in His Word!

"In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory." Ephesians 1:13-14

The Greek word “arrabona” is used 3 times in the New Testament (see below) and always of the Holy Spirit. It is translated as “guarantee”. Commentator William MacDonald explains:

 “Just as in legal matters a seal indicates ownership and security, so it does in Divine affairs… The Holy Spirit is the guarantee of our inheritance. This is a downpayment, pledging that the full amount will be paid.” BBC p.1911

We are already fully children of God (being “born again”) but our full inheritance will be bestowed upon us when we are glorified in Heaven. 

MacDonald continues:

“As the seal, He (the Holy Spirit) guarantees that we ourselves will be kept safely for the inheritance. As the earnest (or pledge) He guarantees the inheritance will be kept securely for us.” BBC p.1911

Although we may stray at times, if we have been truly born again then God’s promise is clear – He will keep us for Heaven and Heaven for us! 

 “And it is God who establishes us with you in Christ, and has anointed us, and who has also put his seal on us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.” 2 Corinthians 1:21-22

"He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who has given us the Spirit as a guarantee. So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight." 

2 Corinthians 5:5-6