“Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity” (2 Timothy 2:19, KJV).

ABSTRACT

The article “Sealing: God’s Seal of Fate!” explores the biblical and prophetic significance of the seal of God as both a divine mark of ownership and a call to purity, discipline, and unity. Scripture reveals that the seal rests on those who depart from iniquity, live in faith, and reflect Christ’s righteousness, while Ellen G. White underscores the urgency of preparing now, as the sealing time is nearly over. This study emphasizes moral discipline, pure faith expressed in works, temperance in appetite, and sorrow for sin as key traits of the sealed. At its heart, the seal reflects God’s enduring love and protective care, inviting believers to communal harmony and steadfast devotion in readiness for Christ’s return.

THE SEAL OF GOD: A CALL TO PURITY AND FAITH

The seal of God stands as a profound symbol of divine approval, reserved for us who live in purity and unwavering faith as we prepare for Christ’s return. In this exploration, we uncover the principles that define the seal, focusing on moral discipline, spiritual purity, and heartfelt commitment, guiding us across faiths toward a deeper understanding of the path to receiving this divine mark. Ellen G. White describes how the sealing time draws near urgently, stating, “The sealing time is very short, and soon will be over. Now is the time to make our calling and election sure, while the four angels are holding the four winds” (Early Writings, p. 48, 1882). Through inspired counsel, we learn further that union among us strengthens our witness, as “Union is strength; division is weakness. When those who believe present truth are united, they exert a telling influence” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 236, 1889). Scripture reinforces this call vividly, with the assurance that “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, KJV), and the command that “Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity” (2 Timothy 2:19, KJV). These truths compel us to examine our readiness, for how can we claim the seal without aligning our lives to such divine imperatives?

PURE FAITH’S MIGHTY WORKS!

The seal of God demands both a pure faith and righteous works. As Ellen G. White explains, only those who have “preserved the faith in its purity” and remained “unspotted from the world” will receive divine protection (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 210). This purity must extend beyond belief to action, as faith without works is lifeless. The early Christian church exemplified this standard, maintaining “unswerving faith” and “blameless deportment” that served as a beacon in a sinful world (The Great Controversy, p. 46). A passage from Patriarchs and Prophets reminds us that pure religion engages the will directly, for “Pure religion has to do with the will” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 510, 1889), while the inspired pen warns against halfhearted efforts, declaring, “We must not have a halfhearted faith, but that perfect faith which works by love and purifies the soul” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 215, 1889). Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone (James 2:17, KJV), and every one who has this hope in Him purifies himself, even as He is pure (1 John 3:3, KJV). Are we in the community walking in this same light, and by reflecting Christ’s righteousness in our lives, do we align ourselves with the divine standard and prepare to bear the seal of God?

TAME THE APPETITE BEAST!

The seal also connects to self-control, particularly in diet. Sr. White warns of the spiritual dullness caused by indulgence in rich and stimulating foods, especially meat, stating, “The gratification of taste should not be indulged at the expense of physical, intellectual, or moral health” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, p. 352). A simple diet of grains, fruits, and natural preparations sharpens spiritual clarity and aligns us with God’s will. This concept highlights the interconnectedness of body and spirit. Through inspired counsel, we are told that excessive indulgence itself constitutes sin, as “Excessive indulgence in eating, drinking, sleeping, or seeing, is sin. The harmonious healthy action of all the powers of body and mind results in happiness” (Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 59, 1938), and a prophetic voice affirms that passions yield to sanctified reason when “The passions are to be controlled by the will, which is itself to be under the control of God. The kingly power of reason, sanctified by divine grace, is to bear sway” (Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 150, 1938). I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway (1 Corinthians 9:27, KJV), for he that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls (Proverbs 25:28, KJV). By exercising restraint, we demonstrate our commitment to purity in every aspect of life, but how does mastering our appetites fortify us against greater spiritual battles?

CRY OUT ‘GAINST SIN’S HORROR!

Another critical characteristic of those who receive the seal is their grief over sin, especially within the church. Sr. White writes, “The seal of the living God will be placed upon those only who sigh and cry for the abominations that are done in the land” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 210). These individuals mark by a holy anguish over the moral decline around them. They stand firm against corruption and pray fervently for the restoration of righteousness. In The Great Controversy, we read how this sorrow propels warning and reform, for “In the time of the end the people of God will sigh and cry for the abominations done in the land. With tears they will warn the wicked of their danger” (Prophets and Kings, p. 583, 1917), while role-based guidance emphasizes clarity in vision, stating, “Their love for purity and the honor and glory of God is such, and they have so clear a view of the exceeding sinfulness of sin, that they will not remain in the assemblies of those who are indulging in iniquity” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, p. 267, 1875). Go through the midst of the city… and set a mark upon the foreheads of the men that sigh and that cry for all the abominations (Ezekiel 9:4, KJV), for godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of (2 Corinthians 7:10, KJV). Does our sorrow over sin move us to action, or do we remain indifferent, and to be counted among the faithful, must we not actively oppose iniquity and seek God’s justice?

LOVE’S SEAL UNVEILED!

At its core, the seal of God reflects His love for humanity. His call to purity, discipline, and faithfulness is not a burden but an invitation to experience His presence. As Scripture assures, “The LORD searcheth all hearts and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee” (1 Chronicles 28:9). God’s love shows in His patience and guidance, offering us the tools to overcome sin. Sr. White confirms, “He who is faithful to his principles, who has kept himself unspotted from the world, will be protected by God in the day of His judgment” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 210). A thematic reflection reveals the depth of divine affection, as “I have seen the tender love that God has for His people, and it is very great” (Early Writings, p. 36, 1882), and through the inspired pen, mercy underscores redemption when “God’s love for the fallen race is a peculiar manifestation of love,—a love born of mercy; for human beings are all undeserving of His love” (With God at Dawn, p. 14, 1949). Set me as a seal upon thine heart… for love is strong as death (Song of Solomon 8:6, KJV), since nothing shall be able to separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39, KJV). This promise reminds us that God’s seal assures His enduring care and justice, yet how does embracing this love propel us toward communal harmony?

UNITY IN SEALED PURITY!

As individuals and as a church, we must embrace this divine calling. Personally, I have experienced the transformative power of surrendering unhealthy habits and striving for purity in thought and action. Communally, we must support one another in this pursuit, fostering environments that encourage spiritual growth. Together, we can reflect God’s love and prepare for His return. Ellen G. White, through her writings, highlights the sacredness of our gatherings, for “To the humble, believing soul, the house of God on earth is the gate of heaven” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 491, 1889), while a prophetic voice urges collective influence when “Union is strength; division is weakness. When those who believe present truth are united, they exert a telling influence. Satan well understands this” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 236, 1889). Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3, KJV), be ye holy in all manner of conversation (1 Peter 1:15, KJV). How might our churches and communities look if we collectively sought to bear the seal of God, and what urgent steps must we take to answer that vision?

RISE TO SEALED GLORY!

Receiving the seal of God is both a privilege and a responsibility. It requires unwavering faith, moral discipline, and heartfelt dedication to God’s principles. Sr. White’s writings and the teachings of Scripture provide a clear path: purity in faith, discipline in lifestyle, and a profound sorrow for sin. Let us heed this call and live in readiness for Christ’s return. The seal is not merely a mark; it is a testimony to our relationship with God, a visible sign of our invisible commitment. In Patriarchs and Prophets, we find the summons to obedience over human decree, as “The adherents of truth are now called upon to choose between disregarding a plain requirement of God’s Word or forfeiting their own salvation” (Last Day Events, p. 134, 1992), and the inspired pen calls for readiness when “Brethren, how long before you will be ready for the seal of God? Every step you advance upon the path which God has marked out will bring you nearer the holy city” (The Review and Herald, August 5, 1884). Hurt not the earth… till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads (Revelation 7:3, KJV), labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life… for him hath God the Father sealed (John 6:27, KJV). Will we rise to this calling? In our daily walk, let us strive to reflect God’s love, preparing ourselves and others for the promise of His seal. As we face challenges and temptations, may we always remember: the seal of God is not about perfection but about unwavering dedication to Him who first loved us.

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SELF-REFLECTION

How can I, in my personal devotional life, delve deeper into these truths about the seal, allowing them to shape my character and priorities?

How can we adapt these themes on purity and discipline to be understandable and relevant to diverse audiences, from seasoned church members to new seekers or those from different faith traditions, without compromising theological accuracy?

What are the most common misconceptions about the seal in my community, and how can I gently but effectively correct them using Scripture and the writings of Sr. White?

In what practical ways can our local congregations and individual members become more vibrant beacons of truth and hope, living out the reality of Christ’s soon return and God’s ultimate victory over evil?