MIGHTY SEAL OF SALVATION

REVELATION 7:3: SAYING, HURT NOT THE EARTH, NEITHER THE SEA, NOR THE TREES, TILL WE HAVE SEALED THE SERVANTS OF OUR GOD IN THEIR FOREHEADS.

ABSTRACT

This article embarks on a profound theological exploration into the understanding of the sealing work, a divine process of critical importance for all who live in these closing scenes of earth’s history, investigating its biblically prophesied commencement, its intrinsic connection to the Third Angel’s Message and the Sabbath of the Lord, and the solemn implications it holds for God’s people today, presenting not merely an academic exercise but an invitation to understand a present, active, and urgent divine operation that touches every soul, stirring within us awe at God’s infinite foreknowledge, solemnity in view of the times, profound gratitude for His promised protection, and an unshakeable hope anchored in the certainty of His Word, highlighting God’s orderliness and mercy in providing a period for preparation and identification as a loving Father meticulously preparing His own, navigating through Scripture and the Spirit of Prophecy to examine the historical context of 1844, the nature of God’s seal, the characteristics of the 144,000, the opposition from darkness, and the ultimate triumph, redefining the post-1844 period as a unique prophetic era demanding a specific response, inviting all to consider these perspectives with an open heart as the implications are too vast to ignore.

AWAKENING TO DIVINE SEALING!

This article will embark on a profound theological exploration into the understanding of the sealing work, a divine process of critical importance for all who live in these closing scenes of earth’s history. We will investigate its biblically prophesied commencement, its intrinsic connection to the Third Angel’s Message and the Sabbath of the Lord, and the solemn implications it holds for God’s people today. This is not merely an academic exercise; it is an invitation to understand a present, active, and urgent divine operation that touches every soul, a truth that should stir within us a spectrum of emotions: awe at God’s infinite foreknowledge, solemnity in view of the times, profound gratitude for His promised protection, and an unshakeable hope anchored in the certainty of His Word. The very concept of a “sealing work” implies a period of divine scrutiny and selection before a final crisis, highlighting God’s orderliness and mercy in providing a period for preparation and identification; this is not the mark of a deity given to caprice, but of a loving Father meticulously preparing His own. Scripture reveals that “For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 5:9, KJV), emphasizing the protective intent of the sealing. Clearly, “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty” (Psalm 91:1, KJV), showing the safety for those sealed. Ellen G. White describes, “The seal placed upon the forehead is a mark of perfection. God’s people are sealed with the seal of the living God” (The Faith I Live By, p. 287, 1952). Sr. White further notes, “Just as soon as the people of God are sealed in their foreheads—it is not any seal or mark that can be seen, but a settling into the truth, both intellectually and spiritually, so they cannot be moved—just as soon as God’s people are sealed and prepared for the shaking, it will come” (Last Day Events, p. 219, 1992). The sealing process thus demands our full commitment to God’s truth in these last days. But what pivotal event marks the beginning of this sealing work?

Our journey will navigate through the sure words of Scripture, primarily the King James Version, and the Spirit of Prophecy to wrestle with these profound concepts. We will examine the historical context of 1844, a year of monumental significance in prophetic understanding, and its direct bearing on when this sealing work began. We will delve into the nature of God’s seal, seeking to understand what it truly represents and how it is received. The identity and characteristics of the 144,000, that special company who stand with the Lamb on Mount Zion, will be explored, alongside the fierce opposition this entire sealing process faces from the forces of darkness. Yet, through it all, the ultimate triumph awaiting the sealed people of God will shine as a beacon of hope. The commencement of the sealing work redefines the historical period post-1844 as a unique prophetic era, demanding a specific, informed response from those who recognize its gravity. God declares, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee” (Hosea 4:6, KJV), urging us to seek understanding. In Scripture, “The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant” (Psalm 25:14, KJV), promising revelation to the faithful. Ellen G. White affirms, “The work of sealing is going on, and will continue until the probation of man closes” (The Review and Herald, March 14, 1899). Sr. White explains, “The seal of God is a sign of His authority and government in the earth” (Signs of the Times, January 3, 1895). This exploration calls us to prepare earnestly for the sealing. How does the third angel play a central role in this divine process?

The truths of God’s Word are universal, and the prophecies concerning the end times carry a message of significance for everyone. We invite you to consider these perspectives with an open heart and a prayerful spirit, for the love of God and His earnest desire for humanity’s salvation are boundless, extending far beyond denominational lines. Consider, if you will, that if such a sealing is indeed taking place, its implications are too vast to ignore, irrespective of one’s current theological moorings. Revealing His mercy, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9, KJV). Clearly, “God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8, KJV). Ellen G. White states, “The sealing is a pledge from God of perfect security to His chosen ones” (Selected Messages, Book 2, p. 73, 1958). Sr. White adds, “Sealing indicates you are God’s chosen. He has appropriated you to Himself” (Manuscript 92a, 1899). This invitation underscores the universal call to the sealing truth. What celestial messenger initiates this profound prophetic process?

DIVINE DECREE UNFURLED!

The very heart of understanding the sealing work, particularly its commencement, lies in recognizing the divine actor who initiates and directs this profound prophetic process: the third angel of Revelation chapter 14. This celestial messenger, heralding a message of utmost solemnity and consequence, is identified by theology as the “sealing angel” of Revelation chapter 7. The Scriptures declare, “And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name. Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them..” (Revelation 14:9-13, KJV). The intrinsic connection is clear: the third angel’s message, with its stern warning against the mark of the beast and its clarion call to keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, is the very message that distinguishes and seals God’s loyal people. This understanding is not a novel interpretation but one that writings affirm, “The angel of verse 2, ascending from the east with the seal of the living God, is identical with the third angel of Revelation 14:9-12.” Thus, the work of the third angel is the sealing work, a divine process of marking and separating a people for God amidst the final crisis. Christ declares, “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15, KJV), linking obedience to loyalty. Scripture reveals, “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city” (Revelation 22:14, KJV), emphasizing the reward for the sealed. Ellen G. White writes, “The seal of the living God is placed upon those who conscientiously keep the Sabbath of the Lord” (The Review and Herald, April 23, 1901). Sr. White elaborates, “The Sabbath is the sign that distinguishes those who acknowledge the sovereignty of God” (The Review and Herald, July 13, 1897). The third angel’s role underscores the urgency of this sealing. What historical anchor marks the commencement of this message?

While the third angel’s message is the divine instrument for sealing, the historical anchor for its commencement is the pivotal year of 1844, a year that resonates with profound prophetic significance. It was in 1844, as the lesson notes firmly state, that “the Sabbath truth was revealed” in its fullness, and consequently, “The sealing work must have started when the angel began his work.”. This was not a mere coincidence of timing but a divinely orchestrated unfolding of truth. Ellen G. White, through the pen of J.N. Loughborough, vividly described this dawning light: “ ‘(God) was well pleased when His law began to come up in strength. That truth (the Sabbath truth) arises, and is on the increase, stronger and stronger. It’s the seal! It’s coming up! It arises, coming from the rising of the sun, like the sun, first cold, grows warmer, and sends its rays. When that truth arose, there was but little light in it; but it has been increasing. Oh, the power of these rays!’ “ (Questions on the Sealing Message, Pages 15, 16). The year 1844, marking the end of the 2300-day prophecy of Daniel 8:14 and Christ’s transition into the Most Holy Place of the heavenly sanctuary, became the epoch for this sealing truth to emerge. The disappointment of 1844, rather than being an end, served as a divine crucible, sifting and preparing a people to receive and proclaim this “present truth,” with the Sabbath at its core. The “rising sun” metaphor beautifully illustrates the progressive nature of this understanding; it wasn’t a static dogma but a truth that grew in clarity and power, warming the hearts and illuminating the path of God’s people. This progressive revelation is a pattern in God’s dealings, ensuring that truth is appreciated and assimilated, not just intellectually acknowledged. The scripture in Isaiah 8:16, “Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples,” finds a powerful echo here, as the Sabbath, the seal within God’s eternal law, began to be understood in its full sealing significance among His end-time disciples. Furthermore, Daniel 12:4 speaks of a time of the end when “knowledge shall be increased,” a prophecy strikingly fulfilled in the unsealing of these vital truths around 1844. Sr. White herself confirmed this connection, stating, “The subject of the sanctuary was the key which unlocked the mystery of the disappointment of 1844. It opened to view a complete system of truth, connected and harmonious, showing that God’s hand had directed the great advent movement and revealing present duty as it brought to light the position and work of His people.” (The Great Controversy, Page 423). This “present duty” was inextricably linked to the sealing message. The historical event of 1844 and the theological revelation of the sealing Sabbath are thus divinely intertwined, forming an inseparable foundation for understanding God’s work in these last days. God promises, “I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye” (Psalm 32:8, KJV), guiding the community through this revelation. Clearly, “The path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day” (Proverbs 4:18, KJV), illustrating the progressive light. Ellen G. White observes, “The Sabbath truth was given to the world that the true God might be known as the Creator of the heavens and the earth” (Manuscript 58, 1900). Sr. White states, “The Sabbath is a token between God and His people. It is a holy day, given by the Creator as a day upon which to rest, and reflect upon sacred things” (The Review and Herald, November 12, 1895). The 1844 event marks the sealing’s start. What divine mandate drove the dissemination of this truth?

The profound conviction that this sealing truth must be disseminated was not left to human initiative; it was divinely mandated through prophetic vision given to Sr. White. She recounts, “At a meeting held in Dorchester, Massachusetts, November, 1848, I had been given a view of the proclama- tion of the sealing message, and of the duty of the brethren to publish the light that was shining upon our pathway. After coming out of vision, I said to my husband: ‘I have a message for you. You must begin to print a little paper and send it out to the people. Let it be small at first; but as the people read, they will send you means with which to print, and it will be a success from the first. From this small beginning it was shown to me to be like streams of light that went clear round the world.“ (Life Sketches of Ellen G. White, Page 125). This was not a suggestion but a divine command, emphasizing the urgency and global scope of the sealing message. The subsequent action was immediate: “With the beginning of this work of publishing, we did not cease our labors in preaching the truth, but traveled from place to place, proclaiming the doctrines which had brought so great light and joy to us, encouraging the community, correcting errors, and setting things in order in the church.” (Life Sketches of Ellen G. White, Page 127). The very first issue of the periodical, aptly named The Present Truth, featured the subject of the sealing on its front page, a testament to the pioneers’ understanding of its paramount importance. This divine directive to publish establishes the proclamation of the sealing truth as a core element of the Advent movement’s identity and mission from its very inception. It was not an ancillary doctrine but a foundational imperative, a “stream of light” destined to encircle the globe, calling souls to the banner of truth. The sifting nature of this message was also foreseen, as Sr. White noted, “As the storm approaches, a large class who have professed faith in the third angel’s message, but have not been sanctified through obedience to the truth, abandon their position and join the ranks of the opposition.” (The Great Controversy, Page 608). This underscores the solemn responsibility to present this truth with clarity and love, understanding its power to both seal and to sift. The Lord commands, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” (Matthew 28:19, KJV), mandating proclamation. Scripture affirms, “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace” (Isaiah 52:7, KJV), highlighting the role of messengers. Ellen G. White declares, “The publication of the truth is God’s ordained agency for the saving of souls” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 7, p. 138, 1902). Sr. White emphasizes, “The press is a powerful means to move the minds and hearts of the people” (Colporteur Ministry, p. 1, 1953). The divine command compels global sharing of the sealing. How does the historical and experiential deepening of this truth continue today?

From the initial dawning of the Sabbath truth in 1844 to the divinely inspired command to publish it to the world, the sealing message was established as a cornerstone of the Advent faith, a present truth whose rays were destined to grow ever brighter. The understanding was not static but experiential, deepening as the pioneers embraced, lived, and proclaimed it, a pattern that continues for every earnest seeker of truth today. Christ teaches, “If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine” (John 7:17, KJV), linking experience to understanding. Clearly, “Taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him” (Psalm 34:8, KJV), inviting personal engagement. Ellen G. White notes, “The truth must be experienced in the daily life” (Education, p. 189, 1903). Sr. White adds, “Truth that is not lived, that is not imparted to others, loses its life-giving power” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 8, p. 47, 1904). The sealing message’s growth calls for ongoing commitment. What connection exists between the Sabbath and Christ’s ministry in the heavenly sanctuary?

SACRED SIGNET REVEALED!

The timing of the Sabbath as the “present test” is inextricably linked to Christ’s ministry in the heavenly sanctuary, a truth that dawned with particular clarity upon the community after 1844. This connection is not arbitrary but is rooted in the progression of Christ’s priestly work. Sr. White was shown this critical sequence: “I saw that the present test on the Sabbath could not come until the mediation of Jesus in the Holy Place was finished and He had passed within the second vail; therefore Christians who fell asleep before the door was opened in the Most Holy, when the midnight cry was finished, at the seventh month 1844; and had not kept the true Sabbath, now rest in hope; for they had not the light and the test on the Sabbath which we now have, since that door was opened.” (The Present Truth, vol. 1, no. 3). This passage is profoundly significant. It establishes why the Sabbath, though a perpetual commandment, became the specific testing truth for God’s people after 1844. Christ’s entrance into the Most Holy Place to begin the final phase of His atonement brought the law of God, enshrined within the ark, into sharp focus. Consequently, the Sabbath, the very heart of that law which contains the seal of the Creator, became the great point of decision, the standard of loyalty. This understanding also demonstrates God’s impeccable justice: those who lived and died before this specific light and test were unveiled were not held accountable in the same manner as those to whom increased light has come. The “Open and Shut Door” doctrine, therefore, is not a relic of a bygone era but a vital key to understanding the timing and nature of the sealing message. Christ’s movement into the Most Holy Place effectively “opened the door” to a fuller understanding of the law and the Sabbath’s role as the seal, making it the “present truth” around which the final test would revolve. This is echoed in Revelation 3:7-8, where Christ, “he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth,” sets before His faithful church “an open door.” This door leads to the very presence of God and the full revelation of His requirements for the sealing time. Christ, as our High Priest, ministers, “Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them” (Hebrews 7:25, KJV). Scripture reveals, “For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens” (Hebrews 7:26, KJV). Ellen G. White comments, “Christ is ministering in behalf of His people. He would save them to the uttermost. He will cleanse them from all sin” (The Review and Herald, December 17, 1901). Sr. White describes, “Jesus is our advocate, our high priest, our intercessor. Our position is like that of the Israelites on the day of atonement” (The Review and Herald, June 12, 1888). The Sabbath’s timing as test highlights divine justice. What nature does the seal hold as divine protection?

While the historical and theological framework of 1844 illuminates when the sealing work began and why the Sabbath became the test, the nature of the seal itself is a “covering” of divine protection, a mark of character transformation. Sr. White was given a poignant vision of this process: “I saw a covering that God was drawing over His people, to protect them in the time of trouble; and every soul that was decided on the truth, and was pure in heart, was to be covered with the covering of Almighty God… Satan knew this, and was at work in mighty power, to keep the minds of as many as he possibly could unsettled, and wavering on the truth… Satan was trying his every art to hold them where they were, until the sealing was past, and the covering drawn over God’s people, and they left out, without a shelter from the burning wrath of God, in the seven last plagues. God has begun to draw this covering over His people, and it will very soon be drawn over all who are to have a shelter in the day of slaughter.” (The Present Truth, vol. 1, no. 3). This “covering” is synonymous with the seal of God. It is not an arbitrary, external mark, but an internal transformation that results in an external sign of allegiance. Notice the prerequisites: a soul “decided on the truth” and “pure in heart.” This is not a passive reception but follows a conscious, wholehearted commitment to God and His revealed will. The seal, therefore, is more than a passive mark; it is an active divine intervention (“God was drawing over His people”) signifying His claim of ownership and His promise of protection against specific future calamities (“time of trouble,” “seven last plagues”). The urgency is palpable: “it will very soon be drawn over all.” This divine act of sealing, this drawing of the protective covering, is a profound demonstration of God’s foreknowledge and His loving provision for His people. It is a process that demands our utmost attention and cooperation, for it signifies our readiness to stand when earthly supports fail. The character transformation inherent in this process is further emphasized. God assures, “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn” (Isaiah 54:17, KJV), promising protection. Clearly, “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1, KJV), showing confidence for the sealed. Ellen G. White explains, “The seal of God is revealed in the observance of the seventh-day Sabbath, the Lord’s memorial of creation” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 8, p. 117, 1904). Sr. White states, “The Sabbath is the great question to unite the hearts of God’s dear waiting saints” (Testimonies to Ministers, p. 136, 1923). The seal’s nature as protection demands cooperation. What scriptural evidence identifies the Sabbath as God’s seal?

The identification of the Sabbath as this sacred signet, the seal of the living God, is a truth established by a confluence of scriptural evidence and prophetic insight from the pioneers of the Advent message. Brother Stephen N. Haskell, a stalwart pioneer, recorded the historical understanding: “After the disappointment of 1844, the people of God saw the light on the subject of the sanctuary in heaven. Then they saw that binding of the fourth commandment as well as the nine other commands of the decalogue. The Sabbath reform commenced at that time; by 1848 it began to be recognized as the fulfillment of Revelation 7:1-4.” (Bible Handbook, Page 88). Another pioneer, Brother Johnson, in his Bible Textbook, meticulously laid out the biblical reasoning: “The seal of Rev. 7:1-4 is the same as the Father’s name of Rev. 14:1 Seal and sign are sometimes synonymous terms. Rom. 4:11. The sign between God and His people is the Sabbath. Ex. 31:13-17; Eze. 20:12, 20. The attribute of creative power distinguishes the true God from all other gods, and his attribute is found only in the Sabbath command, hence that command, and that only, contains the title or name which really seals the decalogue as the law of God; hence the Sabbath becomes the seal of God’s law, and a sign between Him and His true children. The sealing message of Rev. 7:1-8 is therefore only a prophecy of the Sabbath reformation in the last days.” (Bible Textbook, Page 172). These pioneer insights are firmly grounded in the Word of God. Revelation 7:1-4 describes the scene: “And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree. And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God: and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea, Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads. And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel.” (Revelation 7:1-4, KJV). The Sabbath is repeatedly called a “sign” between God and His people: “Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the LORD that doth sanctify you… It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.” (Exodus 31:13, 17, KJV). Ezekiel reiterates this: “Moreover also I gave them my sabbaths, to be a sign between me and them, that they might know that I am the LORD that sanctify them.” (Ezekiel 20:12, KJV). And again, “And hallow my sabbaths; and they shall be a sign between me and you, that ye may know that I am the LORD your God.” (Ezekiel 20:20, KJV). The apostle Paul also uses “sign” and “seal” in a related sense when speaking of Abraham: “And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised…” (Romans 4:11, KJV). The Sabbath commandment (Exodus 20:8-11) uniquely contains the elements of a royal seal: the name of the lawgiver (LORD thy God), His title (Creator), and His dominion (heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is). Thus, the Sabbath becomes the great point of allegiance, the litmus test distinguishing those loyal to the Creator from those who yield to a counterfeit authority. As Sr. White powerfully stated, “The Sabbath is a golden clasp that unites God and His people.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, Page 351). This “golden clasp” is the seal of an everlasting covenant, God’s undeniable mark upon His own. The blessings promised to those who honor the Sabbath, as detailed in Isaiah 58:13-14, further confirm its special significance: “If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the LORD, honourable; and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words: Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.” (Isaiah 58:13-14, KJV). This understanding elevates Sabbath observance beyond mere ritual to an act of supreme allegiance to God as Creator and Lawgiver. In the final conflict, when an opposing power demands homage through a counterfeit day of worship, the true Sabbath will stand as the clear, unmistakable line of demarcation between those who bear God’s seal and those who receive the mark of the beast. The Lord proclaims, “Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth hold on it; that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil” (Isaiah 56:2, KJV), blessing Sabbath keepers. Scripture affirms, “Six days shall work be done: but the seventh day is the sabbath of rest, an holy convocation; ye shall do no work therein: it is the sabbath of the LORD in all your dwellings” (Leviticus 23:3, KJV), commanding observance. Ellen G. White asserts, “The Sabbath points them to the works of creation as an infallible proof of God’s great power” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 336, 1890). Sr. White declares, “The Sabbath was made for man, and Christ is Lord of the Sabbath” (Desire of Ages, p. 283, 1898). The Sabbath as seal distinguishes loyalty. Who comprises the unique group known as the 144,000?

REVEALING THE 144,000!

The prophetic narrative of the sealing work inevitably leads to the question of the 144,000—that divinely numbered and perfectly sealed company who play such a significant role in the final events of earth’s history. Are they a literal number? Who comprises this unique group? Ellen G. White, in her very first vision, was shown this company: “The living saints, 144,000 in number, knew and understood the voice… The 144,000 were all sealed and perfectly united. On their foreheads was written, God, New Jerusalem, and a glorious star containing Jesus’ new name.” (Early Writings, Page 15). This vision, first published in The Day Star on January 24, 1846, included a sentence that was later omitted in some reprintings: “And as we were about to enter the holy temple, Jesus raised His lovely voice and said, only the 144,000 enter this place, and we shouted Hallelujah. Well bless the Lord, Bro. Jacobs, it is an extra meeting for those who have the seal of the living God. This temple was supported by seven pillars, all of transparent gold, set with pearls most glorious.” (The Day Star, Jan. 24, 1846). Regarding such omissions, Sr. White later clarified in 1883, “There is nothing in this that we do not still hold. Reference to our published works will show our belief that the living righteous will receive the seal of God prior to the close of probation; also that these will enjoy special honors in the kingdom of God.” (Selected Messages Book 1, Page 66, commenting on MS 4, 1883). This confirms the consistent belief in the sealing of the living righteous and their distinct place in God’s kingdom. The specificity of the number 144,000, coupled with their description as “sealed and perfectly united,” points not to a vague symbol but to a literal, divinely constituted body of the community who have attained a particular spiritual maturity and harmony before Christ’s return. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us” (John 17:21, KJV). Scripture reveals, “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity” (Psalm 133:1, KJV), highlighting harmony among the 144,000. Ellen G. White describes, “The 144,000 are to be fitted for translation without seeing death” (Selected Messages, Book 1, p. 66, 1958). Sr. White notes, “They are to be the living saints, 144,000 in number, who will stand through the time of trouble” (Evangelism, p. 15, 1946). The 144,000’s identity points to literal maturity. How does God’s mercy extend to the faithful who have died?

Crucially, this special company is not limited to those who are alive at the very moment of Christ’s return. The mercy and justice of God extend to include those faithful souls who have died in the faith of the Third Angel’s Message. Sr. White stated, “There are living upon our earth men who have passed the age of fourscore and ten. The natural results of old age are seen in their feebleness. But they believe God, and God loves them. The seal of God is upon them, and they will be among the number of whom the Lord has said, ‘Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord.’ “ (SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, Page 982, Manuscript 100, 1899). This aligns with the broader consensus among Adventist pioneers that those who die in the faith of the third angel’s message, having received the seal in character, are counted among the 144,000. They will be raised in the special resurrection (Daniel 12:2) to join those who have remained alive, ensuring the completeness of this unique group across the generations who have lived since the sealing message began. The Apostle Paul speaks of being “sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession” (Ephesians 1:13-14, KJV), linking the seal to the assurance of ultimate redemption for all the faithful. This ensures that death does not rob the faithful of their place among this triumphant company. God promises, “Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints” (Psalm 116:15, KJV), valuing the faithful departed. Clearly, “The righteous perisheth, and no man layeth it to heart: and merciful men are taken away, none considering that the righteous is taken away from the evil to come” (Isaiah 57:1, KJV), showing mercy in death. Ellen G. White affirms, “Those who die under the third angel’s message are a part of the 144,000; there will be no more death after the close of probation” (The Review and Herald, September 23, 1884). Sr. White explains, “The graves are opened, and the special resurrection takes place” (Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. 4, p. 454, 1884). God’s mercy includes the faithful departed in the 144,000. What characterizes the period of this sealing?

The period during which this sealing takes place is characterized by immense urgency and intense spiritual conflict. Sr. White repeatedly emphasized its brevity: “Our position looks very clear. We know we have the truth, the midnight cry is behind us; the door was shut in 1844 and Jesus is soon to step out from between God and man. The sealing will then be accomplished—finished up.” (Letter 5, 1899, pp. 5, 6, as quoted in 5 Manuscript Releases, Page 200). And again, “The sealing time is very short, and will soon be over. Now is the time, while the four angels are holding the four winds, to make our calling and election sure.” (Early Writings, Page 58). This brevity is precisely why Satan redoubles his efforts to deceive and distract. “I saw that Satan would work more powerfully now than ever he has before. He knows that his time is short and that the sealing of the saints will place them beyond his power; he will now work in every way that he can and will try his every insinuation to get the saints off from their guard and get them asleep on the present truth or doubting it, so as to prevent their being sealed with the seal of the living God.” (Manuscript 7, 1850, pp. 2, 3, as quoted in 8 Manuscript Releases, Page 220). This “very short” sealing time is a period of intensified spiritual dichotomy: Satan’s most powerful deceptions rage, while concurrently, God draws His protective “covering” over the decided and pure-hearted. This creates a final, sharp polarization, a sifting where the middle ground vanishes, and individuals are irrevocably aligned either with God or with the forces of rebellion. The finality of this period is underscored by the solemn declaration concerning the close of probation: “When Jesus leaves the sanctuary, then they who are holy and righteous will be holy and righteous still; for all their sins will then be blotted out, and they will be sealed with the seal of the living God. But those that are unjust and filthy will be unjust and filthy still; for then there will be no Priest in the sanctuary to offer their sacrifices, their confessions, and their prayers before the Father’s throne. Therefore what is done to rescue souls from the coming storm of wrath must be done before Jesus leaves the most holy place of the heavenly sanctuary.” (Early Writings, p. 48) “Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his.” (Maranatha, pg.) And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity” (2 Timothy 2:19, kjv) reinforces that God’s seal is upon His recognized own, who are characterized by a departure from sin. Sr. White echoes this critical need for character perfection: “Not one of us will ever receive the seal of God while our characters have one spot or stain upon them. It is left with us to remedy the defects in our characters, to cleanse the soul temple of every defilement. Then the latter rain will fall upon us as the early rain fell upon the disciples on the Day of Pentecost.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, Page 214). The Lord warns, “Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not” (Luke 12:40, KJV), stressing urgency. Scripture urges, “Today if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts” (Hebrews 3:15, KJV), calling for immediate response. Ellen G. White warns, “The time for God’s people to be sealed is short” (The Review and Herald, August 1, 1893). Sr. White urges, “We are in the sealing time now, and let us give the message that the Lord has given us” (The Review and Herald, March 18, 1890). The sealing period’s urgency demands vigilance. What prophecy shows God’s restraint of chaos for the sealing’s completion?

Amidst this urgency, there is a remarkable prophecy in Revelation 7 concerning the restraint of global chaos to allow for the completion of this divine work. Early Adventist pioneers understood this deeply: “Dear Brethren, scattered abroad: We have reached a time when we can confidently take our stand upon the posi- tion expressed in the heading we have given to these lines: that the providence of God had brought us to a place where the message or the work, of the ascending angel of Revelation 7:2 must be fulfilled… 1. The winds denote political strifes and commotions among the nations. 2. The four angels…are four divine messengers…whose province it is, both to restrain the winds of strife…and also to cause the winds to blow… (Jer. 25:32)… 4. His crying to the four angels to hurt not the earth, etc.,…shows conclusively that some work of strife, war, and commotion is beginning to arise which interfers with the sealing work, and which, in the counsel of God, must be restrained till that work is accomplished.” The prophet Jeremiah also speaks of such a time of global upheaval: “Thus saith the LORD of hosts, Behold, evil shall go forth from nation to nation, and a great whirlwind shall be raised up from the coasts of the earth.” (Jeremiah 25:32, KJV). This prophetic scenario reveals God’s sovereign hand over the affairs of nations, holding back the full tide of destructive forces so that His work of sealing His servants can be completed. It offers a theological lens through which to view world events, not as random chaos, but as potentially influenced by divine restraint for the sake of the church’s final mission. This should instill in us both a profound sense of urgency, knowing the restraint is temporary, and unwavering confidence in God’s ultimate control. The sealing time is indeed short, but God’s power and wisdom are infinite, ensuring that His purposes will prevail. God controls, “He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision” (Psalm 2:4, KJV), over nations. Clearly, “The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed” (Psalm 2:2, KJV), but God restrains. Ellen G. White observes, “The angels are holding the four winds, and they will not let go until the work is done” (The Review and Herald, May 28, 1889). Sr. White states, “The time is coming when we cannot sell at any price. The decree will soon go forth prohibiting men to buy or sell of any man save him that hath the mark of the beast” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 152, 1885). God’s restraint for sealing inspires confidence. How does the sealing work demonstrate God’s protective love?

DIVINE IMPRINT UNLEASHED!

The sealing work, when viewed through the lens of divine compassion, emerges not as a cold, legalistic transaction, but as one of the most profound and tender demonstrations of God’s protective, covenant-keeping, and redeeming love for His wayward children. This is not a love that is distant or abstract, but one that actively intervenes in human history to secure the eternal well-being of those who respond to His call. The very act of “sealing” implies a deep, personal interest, a marking of individuals as precious and belonging to Him. Consider the words of Deuteronomy 7:9: “Know therefore that the LORD thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;” (KJV). The sealing is an extension of this covenant love, a divine promise fulfilled for those who, in the final generation, choose allegiance to Him by keeping His commandments, the very commandments that are a transcript of His loving character. This love is not a fleeting emotion but an enduring commitment, as Isaiah 54:10 beautifully declares: “For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the LORD that hath mercy on thee.” (KJV). The seal of God is an integral part of this unbreakable “covenant of peace,” a mark signifying that the recipient is under the mantle of His unfailing kindness and mercy. The protective nature of God’s love is starkly evident in the command given to the angels in Revelation 7:3: “…Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads.” (KJV). What an astonishing display of divine solicitude! The very elements of destruction are held in check, the winds of strife are restrained, all so that God’s vulnerable servants can be secured, marked as His own, before the final tempest breaks. This is not the action of an indifferent deity, but of a loving Father shielding His children. Sr. White vividly describes this protective love in action: “I saw a covering that God was drawing over His people, to protect them in the time of trouble; and every soul that was decided on the truth, and was pure in heart, was to be covered with the covering of Almighty God.” (The Present Truth, vol. 1, no. 3). This “covering,” this seal, is an emblem of His tender care, a divine embrace that shelters from the overwhelming power of the enemy and the coming judgments. This love is also discerning; it recognizes and affirms those who have chosen Him, those who have striven for purity and truth. The sealing is an expression of this specific, approving love for those who have reciprocated His love through obedience. Furthermore, God’s love extends even to the aged and the dying faithful, as Sr. White noted: “There are living upon our earth men who have passed the age of fourscore and ten… But they believe God, and God loves them. The seal of God is upon them, and they will be among the number of whom the Lord has said, ‘Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord.’” (SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, Page 982). His love ensures that even death does not sever them from the promise of being sealed and counted among His special people. The sealing work, therefore, occurring before the “time of trouble” and the “seven last plagues,” demonstrates that God’s love includes acts of judgment—distinguishing between the sealed and unsealed—for the ultimate purpose of salvation and preservation for the faithful. It is a love that acts decisively to preserve His own, a love that foresees, provides, and ultimately triumphs. While the sacrifice of Christ is the ultimate measure of God’s love, as Sr. White so powerfully summarizes, “The Father’s love is incomprehensible… He ‘thought it not robbery to be equal with God.’ Yet He ‘made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant… and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.’” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, Page 200), the sealing work is a specific, end-time manifestation of that same incomprehensible love, ensuring that the purchase of Calvary is secured in the lives of His faithful children. Thus, the sealing message, when understood deeply, becomes a powerful revelation of God’s unwavering commitment and tender solicitude for His people, a love that actively works to secure their eternal well-being. God expresses, “I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee” (Jeremiah 31:3, KJV), drawing the sealed. Clearly, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13, KJV), manifesting in sealing. Ellen G. White proclaims, “God’s love for His children during the period of their severest trial is as strong and tender as in the days of their sunniest prosperity” (The Great Controversy, p. 621, 1911). Sr. White affirms, “In the time of peril He will hide them who have kept the faith” (Prophets and Kings, p. 591, 1917). God’s love in sealing secures well-being. What personal holiness does this period demand from us?

In this momentous period, this “sealing time” when destinies are being irrevocably decided, my responsibility to God crystallizes into an urgent call for personal holiness, unwavering faith in the distinctive truths He has revealed, and complete, heartfelt obedience to His commandments. This is not a passive stance of merely waiting for events to unfold, but an active, daily engagement in preparing my heart and mind to receive His divine impress, the seal of the living God. The apostle John, in Revelation 14:12, defines the character of those who successfully navigate this period: “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” (KJV). This is the standard, the divine expectation for those who would be sealed. It is a call to a life that mirrors the steadfastness of Christ and the unchanging nature of God’s law. The foundational responsibility is clearly articulated in Leviticus 26:2-3: “Ye shall keep my sabbaths, and reverence my sanctuary: I am the LORD. If ye walk in my statutes, and keep my commandments, and do them;” (KJV). This obedience is not a burden but a joyful response to His love and a necessary condition for receiving His promised blessings and protection. Ellen G. White powerfully underscores this individual responsibility: “Now is the time to lay up treasure in heaven and to set our hearts in order, ready for the time of trouble. Those only who have clean hands and pure hearts will stand in that trying time. Now is the time for the law of God to be in our minds, foreheads, and written in our hearts… The sealing time is very short, and will soon be over. Now is the time, while the four angels are holding the four winds, to make our calling and election sure.” (Early Writings, Page 58). The phrases “set our hearts in order,” “clean hands and pure hearts,” and “make our calling and election sure” all point to an active, conscious effort on my part, enabled by His grace. It is a call to diligently search the Scriptures to understand “present truth,” to engage in earnest prayer for a heart purified from all defilement, and to make a resolute decision to stand firmly for what God has revealed, regardless of the cost. The divine “covering” is for “every soul that was decided on the truth, and was pure in heart.” (The Present Truth, vol. 1, no. 3). This implies that the seal is applied to those who have, through God’s transforming power and their own diligent cooperation, reached a certain state of spiritual maturity and unwavering commitment. My responsibility, therefore, is to yield to this transforming process. The apostle James gives practical counsel: “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.” (James 4:8, KJV). This is a call to actively pursue purity and an intimate relationship with God, which are indispensable for receiving His seal. The urgency of this responsibility cannot be overstated, given that the “sealing time is very short.” This short window of opportunity suggests that it is a final period for character to be indelibly fixed for God. Therefore, my supreme duty is to prioritize this spiritual preparation above all worldly allurements and anxieties. Sr. White summarizes this imperative beautifully: “Those who have in their foreheads the seal of the infinite God will regard the world and its attractions as subordinate to eternal interests. They will keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment.” (The Review and Herald, July 13, 1897). This means a conscious, daily choice to align my thoughts, desires, and actions with God’s will, allowing His law to be written not just on tablets of stone, but on the very fabric of my being. God calls, “Be ye holy; for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16, KJV), demanding holiness. Scripture urges, “Pursue peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14, KJV), essential for sealing. Ellen G. White warns, “Readiness to meet Him cannot be attained in a moment’s time” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, p. 492, 1875). Sr. White emphasizes, “Every soul must have a realization that he has an individual work to do in the preparation for the great events that are before us” (The Review and Herald, January 11, 1887). Therefore, my response to God in this critical sealing time must be one of total consecration, unceasing vigilance against Satan’s manifold deceptions, and a daily, prayerful striving for that Christlike character which God can approve and eternally seal. What responsibility do we have toward our neighbor in this sealing time?

The profound understanding of the sealing work—its urgency, its protective nature, and its eternal consequences—naturally extends beyond personal preparation to a solemn responsibility toward my neighbor. If I truly grasp the reality that a “storm of wrath” is coming and that God is providing a “covering,” a “seal,” for protection, then love for my fellow human beings compels me to share this life-saving knowledge. My responsibility is to lovingly and urgently disseminate the present, sealing truth, warning them of the impending crisis and earnestly inviting them to find refuge under God’s protective covering by embracing His commandments, especially the Sabbath, which is His seal. The principle of the watchman, so powerfully articulated in Ezekiel 3:17-19, applies with striking force: “Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me. When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. Yet if thou warn the wicked, and he turn not from his wickedness, nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul.” (KJV). In this context, the “wicked way” includes the rejection of God’s specific end-time truths and the acceptance of counterfeits. True love for my neighbor, therefore, necessitates sharing the warning component of the Third Angel’s Message. It is profoundly unloving to possess knowledge of impending danger and the divine means of escape—the seal of God—and yet remain silent. The apostle Paul highlights the indispensable role of proclamation in Romans 10:14-15: “How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!” (KJV). While this applies to the gospel in general, it has a particularly pointed application to the “present truth” of the sealing message. How can my neighbor choose the seal of God if they have not been clearly shown what it is and why it is vital now? The divine mandate given to Sr. White to publish the sealing message, envisioned as “streams of light that went clear round the world,” (Life Sketches of Ellen G. White, Page 125) , was precisely so that “the people” could hear and respond. The early Adventists understood this; they “traveled from place to place, proclaiming the doctrines which had brought so great light and joy to us.” (Life Sketches of Ellen G. White, Page 127). This is our example. The urgency is further amplified by Sr. White’s solemn words concerning the close of probation: “When Jesus leaves the Sanctuary… Therefore, what is done to rescue souls from the coming storm of wrath, must be done before Jesus leaves the Most Holy Place of the Heavenly Sanctuary.” (The Present Truth, vol. 1, No. 4). This imperative to “rescue souls” is the essence of our responsibility to our neighbor in this sealing time. Given that the sealing determines eternal destiny and protection from the final plagues, sharing this specific “present truth” becomes the most critical expression of love for one’s neighbor in this prophetic period. General acts of kindness and benevolence, while essential components of a Christian life, cannot substitute for sharing the specific truths that lead to an understanding and reception of the seal of God. My responsibility involves more than just being a good neighbor in a social sense; it means being a spiritual watchman, a faithful messenger of the truths that can lead them to eternal security. As Sr. White urged, regarding the dissemination of truth through publications, “From this small beginning it was shown to me to be like streams of light that went clear round the world.” (Life Sketches of Ellen G. White, Page 125). This vision encapsulates our responsibility: to be conduits for these life-giving streams of light, ensuring that every seeking soul has the opportunity to hear, understand, and choose life by accepting God’s seal. The Lord commands, “Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me” (Isaiah 6:8, KJV), calling for messengers. Scripture affirms, “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise” (Proverbs 11:30, KJV), highlighting soul-winning. Ellen G. White declares, “Every true disciple is born into the kingdom of God as a missionary” (The Desire of Ages, p. 195, 1898). Sr. White emphasizes, “The greatest work to which human beings can aspire is the work of winning men from sin to holiness” (Evangelism, p. 456, 1946). Thus, my responsibility to my neighbor is an active, compassionate, and urgent dissemination of the sealing truth, driven by a profound desire for their salvation and their inclusion among those sheltered in the day of God’s righteous judgment. What profound transformation do these truths demand in our lives?

EMBRACING THE ETERNAL EMBLEM OF OUR ESCAPE!

As we stand at the precipice of eternity, with the sealing work progressing towards its swift conclusion, the truths we have traversed demand more than intellectual assent; they call for a profound transformation of heart and a dedicated life of service. For us as individuals, the implications are deeply personal. The call is to unwavering personal piety, a diligent and prayerful study of God’s Word, and a courageous, Spirit-filled proclamation of these distinctive, life-saving messages. It is not enough to possess a theoretical knowledge of the seal, the Sabbath, or the 144,000; we must have a living, vibrant experience with these truths, allowing them to shape our every thought, word, and deed. As Sr. White so aptly stated, “Those who have in their foreheads the seal of the infinite God will regard the world and its attractions as subordinate to eternal interests. They will keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment.” (The Review and Herald, July 13, 1897). This subordination of the temporal to the eternal is the hallmark of a sealed character. The reception of the seal signifies a personal victory in the great controversy that has raged within each soul. It indicates that the individual has, by God’s grace, fully sided with Christ, overcome sin through His empowering presence, and developed a character that is impervious to Satan’s most subtle and final deceptions. Christ urges, “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12, KJV), calling for personal effort. Scripture reveals, “Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee” (1 Timothy 4:16, KJV), emphasizing self-examination. Ellen G. White warns, “Now is the time to prepare for the coming of our Lord. Readiness to meet Him cannot be attained in a moment’s time” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, p. 492, 1875). Sr. White states, “The time has come when a thorough work must be done by the consecrated followers of Christ. A more earnest and spirited effort must be put forth to prepare the way of the Lord” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, p. 43, 1909). This is the high calling, the glorious destiny offered to all who will receive the seal of the living God. How does the church function as a beacon in this sealing time?

Communally, the church is called to be a beacon, a place where these sealing truths are not only cherished and understood but are actively and lovingly shared. There is a pressing need for unity in belief and purpose, reflecting the perfect unity envisioned for the sealed 144,000. The church, through its members, acts as a divine agency in this sealing process. By proclaiming the truths that lead to conviction, repentance, and the character transformation necessary for receiving the seal, we co-labor with the Holy Spirit in this final, sacred marking. This is a solemn privilege and an awesome responsibility. We are entrusted with light that has eternal consequences, and we must live up to this high calling. The heartfelt desire of the Swedish sister, who exclaimed, “I want to be a humble follower of Christ. I want the seal of God upon my forehead,’ “ (Review and Herald, May 18, 1876) , should echo in every heart. The apostle Peter’s exhortation resonates with particular force in this context: “Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 1:10-11, KJV). This diligence is the order of the day. The community thrives in unity, “Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3, KJV). Scripture affirms, “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Corinthians 1:10, KJV), calling for harmony. Ellen G. White declares, “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). Sr. White emphasizes, “The work of Christ’s servants is not merely to preach the truth; they are to watch for souls as they that must render account to God” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 237, 1889). The church’s role in sealing demands unity and proclamation. How can we adapt these truths for diverse hearts?

For you, the challenge is to take these profound theological insights and, through prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit, adapt them into clear, compassionate, and compelling messages that can reach diverse hearts in these bewildering times. Remember that while the message is solemn, it is also imbued with hope. Sr. White reminds us, “The time of God’s destructive judgments is the time of mercy for those who have no opportunity to learn what is truth. Tenderly will the Lord look upon them. His heart of mercy is touched; His hand is still stretched out to save, while the door is closed to those who would not enter.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, Page 97). Our presentation must reflect this divine tenderness. We are to be “consecrated to God, and to be like Him in character. We are to have the seal of God upon us, and to be among those who will sing the song of Moses and the Lamb upon the sea of glass.” (Manuscript Releases, Vol. 15, Page 225). Christ commissions, “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2, KJV), mandating teaching. Scripture urges, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord” (Colossians 3:16, KJV), encouraging instruction. Ellen G. White observes, “The truth should be presented in a manner that will excite the intelligence of the hearer” (Evangelism, p. 209, 1946). Sr. White adds, “The teacher of truth can impart effectively only that which he himself knows by experience” (Education, p. 78, 1903). This is the high calling, the glorious destiny offered to all who will receive the seal of the living God. What pivotal role does the sealing work play in salvation history?

In the grand tapestry of salvation history, the sealing work stands as a pivotal, concluding chapter, a divine process initiated in 1844, marked by the sacred Sabbath, and destined to gather the 144,000 who will stand with the Lamb on Mount Zion. This is not a distant prophecy but a present, active reality, calling for an immediate and wholehearted response from every soul. The key imperatives are clear: the sealing work has begun; the Sabbath of the fourth commandment is the distinguishing sign of this seal; the 144,000, a literal company including the faithful departed of the Third Angel’s Message, are being gathered and prepared; and our individual and collective response must be one of urgent spiritual readiness and unwavering proclamation. The seal is not merely for earthly protection during the time of trouble, but it is the ultimate “passport” into the New Jerusalem , signifying full citizenship in God’s eternal kingdom, a mark of qualification for entry into His everlasting presence. Despite the solemnity of the times and the intensity of the spiritual warfare that surrounds this sealing truth, the overarching message is one of profound hope, unwavering assurance, and ultimate triumph. The sealing work is God’s divine guarantee of victory and protection for His faithful people. It is His final answer in the great controversy, demonstrating before an attentive universe His power to redeem, transform, and preserve a people who perfectly reflect the character of His Son, even amidst the fiercest opposition from the enemy of souls. The successful sealing of the 144,000 will be the ultimate vindication of God’s law and His boundless grace. God promises, “Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace” (Psalm 37:37, KJV), assuring peace. Clearly, “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee” (Isaiah 26:3, KJV), offering stability. Ellen G. White affirms, “The coming of Christ has been in all ages the hope of His true followers” (The Great Controversy, p. 303, 1911). Sr. White states, “The hope of salvation is an anchor to the soul, both sure and steadfast, and it unites the soul to God” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, p. 347, 1855). The sealing’s role inspires hope and triumph. How can we embrace this calling with zeal?

Therefore, let us embrace our high calling with renewed zeal and unwavering faith. Let us be empowered by the Holy Spirit to carry these “streams of light” to a world shrouded in darkness, a world desperately in need of this final message of mercy, warning, and hope. For soon, very soon, the work will be finished, the last saint sealed, and the redeemed will join in the glorious anthem of Moses and the Lamb, their foreheads bearing the undeniable, eternal impress of the living God. The promise of Revelation 22:14 will find its ultimate fulfillment: “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” (KJV). May each one of us, by God’s grace, be among that blessed number. Christ exhorts, “Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord” (Romans 12:11, KJV), calling for zeal. Scripture urges, “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent” (Revelation 3:19, KJV), inspiring fervor. Ellen G. White proclaims, “At the very crisis, when Satan seemed about to triumph, the Son of God came with the embassage of divine grace” (The Desire of Ages, p. 759, 1898). Sr. White adds, “The great moral powers of the soul are faith, hope, and love” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, p. 24, 1855). Embracing the sealing leads to ultimate victory.

“And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.” (Ephesians 4:30, KJV)

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