I think it is time for a new thread...

So, I would like to discuss the following verse as it applies to new believers in the year 2010. But I warn you in advance, it opens up a huge can of protein-filled worms.

2 Corinthians 1:22 - Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.

2 Corinthians 5:5 - Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit.

Ephesians 1:13-14 - 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, 14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.

So, what exactly was this "earnest"? Was was the purpose? Let's wait until we can hammer out the definition before we start applying it to new believers in our present day, okay?

Thank you for your time.