The three metaphors of "seal," "down payment," and "first-fruits" provide insight into Paul's already-not yet eschatological understanding of the Spirit's work, especially in connection to the Spirit bringing about new-creational life in people. The metaphors revolve around the idea that the Spirit is the present evidence of future realities, especially resurrection, and therefore provide assurance of the consummation of these realities. The Spirit is not preparatory for future end-time existence or only a guarantee of it, but is the very beginning of that existence;
See G.K. Beale, A New Testament Biblical Theology, 582
The rule of Jesus has begun. The kingdom has arrived.
We have been resurrected into new eternal life. Our bodies will follow, rising from the earth to meet and join with our spirits when Jesus returns.
Heaven and earth will become one.
No comments:
Post a Comment