Inheritance in the new testament

Inheritance is a significant theme in the New Testament, particularly in the letters of Paul and the book of Hebrews. Here are some key aspects of inheritance in the New Testament:

  1. Inheritance of eternal life: In the New Testament, believers are promised an inheritance that is eternal and imperishable (1 Peter 1:4). This inheritance is not limited to material possessions, but rather to a share in the divine nature and eternal life with God (2 Peter 1:4).
  2. Inheritance through faith: In the New Testament, faith is seen as the means by which believers receive their inheritance. This is emphasized in passages such as Galatians 3:29, where Paul writes that "if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise."
  3. Inheritance as a result of Christ's work: The New Testament teaches that believers receive their inheritance as a result of Christ's work on the cross. This is emphasized in passages such as Ephesians 1:11-12, where Paul writes that God "predestined us for adoption as sons and daughters through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace with which he has blessed us in the Beloved."
  4. Inheritance as a future reality: While believers may experience some aspects of their inheritance in this life, the New Testament also emphasizes that the full inheritance is yet to come. This is emphasized in passages such as 1 Corinthians 15:50-54, where Paul writes that "flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable."
  5. Inheritance as a corporate reality: The New Testament also emphasizes that inheritance is a corporate reality, with believers being part of a larger body of Christ. This is emphasized in passages such as Ephesians 5:30-32, where Paul writes that "we are members of his body, of his flesh and of his bones. 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.' This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church."
  6. Inheritance as a motivation for living: The New Testament also uses the theme of inheritance as a motivation for living a godly life. This is emphasized in passages such as 1 Peter 1:17-21, where Peter writes that "since you call on a Father who judges each one impartially according to his deeds, live as strangers here in reverent fear. For you know that it is in the presence of God that you will receive the inheritance as your reward."
  7. Inheritance as a source of comfort: Finally, the New Testament also uses the theme of inheritance as a source of comfort and encouragement for believers. This is emphasized in passages such as Romans 8:17, where Paul writes that "we are heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory."

Some key passages that deal with inheritance in the New Testament include:

Overall, the theme of inheritance in the New Testament emphasizes the idea that believers have a future inheritance that is yet to come, but is already secured through faith in Christ. This inheritance is seen as a source of comfort, motivation, and encouragement for living a godly life.