Paul describes a people of God who are “sealed with that Holy Spirit” (Ephesians 1:13). This speaks of a people specially marked by a work of the Spirit. The Holy Spirit has produced in them a distinguishing mark, a glorious inner work, something supernatural that has changed them forever.
They are not ordinary anymore. They are no longer “of this world,” since they have set their affections on things above, not on the things of this earth. They are not moved by the world’s events; rather, they are unshakable. They are no longer lukewarm or halfhearted. Instead, their hearts cry out night and day, “Come quickly, Lord Jesus…”
What happened to them? What did the Holy Spirit do in these believers? What marked and sealed them forever as the Lord’s possession?
The Holy Ghost gave them a foretaste of the glory of his presence. He came to them and rolled back heaven, and they experienced a supernatural manifestation of his exceeding greatness. He gives us “a little heaven” to go to heaven with, a whetting of our appetite.
What kind of bride do you think the Spirit will present to Jesus Christ on that day of revelation? One who is halfhearted? Whose love is lukewarm or cold? Who is not devoted to Jesus? Who does not want intimacy with Christ?
If you truly love Jesus, he’s never out of your mind. He is present in your every waking moment. Some Christians think, “That will happen after I die. When I get to heaven, everything will change. I’ll become the special bride of the Lord then.” No, dying doesn’t sanctify anybody! This Holy Ghost is here today. He is alive and working in you to produce in you a passionate love for Christ on this side of death.