Heirs of the Promise
The concept of being “heirs of the promise” is central to understanding the relationship between God and His people throughout Scripture. This inheritance encompasses both physical and spiritual blessings, reflecting God’s faithfulness and love.
LORD, you alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing. You guard all that is mine. ’ (Mark 12:7)
ETYMOLOGY
Greek
Term: κληρονομία (kleronomia)
Meaning: Inheritance
Root: From κληρονόμος (kleronomos), meaning “heir.” The components imply a portion received by law or custom.
Hebrew
Term נחלה(nachalah)
Meaning: Inheritance
Root: meaning “to inherit” or “to take possession,” often linked to land or property.
Embracing God's Inheritance
1. Physical Inheritance
The concept of physical inheritance is primarily seen in the allocation of land and possessions among the tribes of Israel.
• These passages discuss how Jacob’s sons were to inherit their father’s possessions, emphasizing the familial aspect of inheritance.
Rachel and Leah responded, “That’s fine with us! We won’t inherit any of our father’s wealth anyway. (Genesis 31:14)
But any children born to you in the future will be your own, and they will inherit land within the territories of their brothers Ephraim and Manasseh. (Genesis 48:6)
But I have promised you, ‘You will possess their land because I will give it to you as your possession—a land flowing with milk and honey.’ I am the LORD your God, who has set you apart from all other people. (Leviticus 20:24)
God promises the Israelites a land flowing with milk and honey, illustrating the tangible inheritance awaiting them.
Give the larger tribes more land and the smaller tribes less land, each group receiving a grant in proportion to the size of its population. (Numbers 26:54)
And if he has no daughter either, transfer his inheritance to his brothers. (Numbers 27:9)
The daughters throughout the tribes of Israel who are in line to inherit property must marry within their tribe, so that all the Israelites will keep their ancestral property. (Numbers 36:8)
These verses detail how land was to be divided among the tribes, ensuring each family received a rightful portion, with guidelines to protect inheritance rights.
Abraham: The Father of Faith and Promise
The LORD had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you. 2 “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you(Genesis12:1-3) )
God calls Abraham and promises to make him a great nation, bless him, and make his name great. This foundational covenant establishes Abraham as the father of many, setting the stage for a legacy of faith.
If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise. (Galatians 3: 29 )
Paul emphasizes that if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s descendants and heirs according to the promise. This connection underscores that the promise extends beyond physical descendants to all who have faith in Christ.
2. The Promised Land
I have promised to rescue you from your oppression in Egypt. I will lead you to a land flowing with milk and honey—the land where the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites now live.”’ (Exodus 3:17)
God promises the Israelites deliverance from Egypt and a return to a land flowing with milk and honey, illustrating the tangible aspect of inheritance. 6 “Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them. 7 Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. 8 Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. 9 This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1: 6-9)
As Israel prepares to enter the Promised Land, God encourages Joshua to be strong and courageous, reminding him that the land is their inheritance—a fulfillment of the promises made to Abraham.
3. Spiritual Inheritance
Inheritance also carries a deep spiritual significance in Scripture, often reflecting one’s relationship with God.
That is why the Levites have no share of property or possession of land among the other Israelite tribes. The LORD himself is their special possession, as the LORD your God told them.) (Deuteronomy 10:9)
The Levites are described as having no land inheritance, as the Lord is their inheritance, highlighting a unique spiritual legacy. Only ask, and I will give you the nations as your inheritance, the whole earth as your possession. (Psalms 2:8)
God promises the nations to His Son, illustrating a spiritual inheritance that encompasses authority and dominion. LORD, you alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing. You guard all that is mine. (Psalm 16:5)
The psalmist acknowledges God as the portion of his inheritance, underscoring reliance on God for true fulfillment.
4. Covenantal Inheritance
God’s covenant with Israel establishes the foundation for understanding inheritance as a promise that transcends generations.
“As for all the inhabitants of the mountain regions from Lebanon to Misrephoth Maim, that is, all the Sidonians, I myself will drive them out before the Israelites. Be sure to allocate this land to Israel for an inheritance, as I have instructed you. (Joshua 13 : 6)
This verse reminds the Israelites of their divinely ordained inheritance.
Emphasizing God’s faithfulness to His promises. 5 Then said Boaz, What day thou buyest the field of the hand of Naomi, thou must buy it also of Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of the dead, to raise up the name of the dead upon his inheritance.
The concept of redeeming an inheritance is illustrated here, where Boaz redeems Ruth’s family line, ensuring the continuation of inheritance through marriage and family. Save your people and bless your inheritance; be their shepherd and carry them forever.(Ruth 4:5)
O God, the nations have invaded your inheritance; they have defiled your holy temple, they have reduced Jerusalem to rubble.(Psalms 28:9)
“To you I will give the land of Canaan as the portion you will inherit.”(Psalms 79:1)
These passages reflect God’s role as the protector and giver of inheritance, affirming His commitment to His people. “The days are coming,” declares the LORD, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah. 32 It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them,” declares the LORD. 33 “This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the LORD. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. 34No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, ‘Know the LORD,’ because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest,” declares the LORD. “For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”(Psalms105:11)
God promises a new covenant with His people, where He will write His law on their hearts. This shift signifies a deeper, spiritual inheritance rooted in personal relationship rather than mere adherence to the law. 20 In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.(Jeremiah 31:31-34)
During the Last Supper, Jesus speaks of the new covenant in His blood, indicating that through Him, believers inherit eternal life and a relationship with God.(Luke 22:20)
5. Inheritance in the New Testament
The New Testament expands the concept of inheritance to all believers through Christ. • Believers are described as having obtained an inheritance in Christ, sealed with the Holy Spirit, which is a spiritual promise of eternal life and communion with God. • 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, (1 Peter 1: 4)
This verse speaks of an imperishable inheritance kept in heaven, highlighting the eternal aspect of what believers inherit through their faith.
6. The Role of the Law
Why, then, was the law given at all? It was added because of transgressions until the Seed to whom the promise referred had come. The law was given through angels and entrusted to a mediator. 20 A mediator, however, implies more than one party; but God is one. 21 Is the law, therefore, opposed to the promises of God? Absolutely not! For if a law had been given that could impart life, then righteousness would certainly have come by the law. 22 But Scripture has locked up everything under the control of sin, so that what was promised, being given through faith in Jesus Christ, might be given to those who believe. (Galatians 3:19-22)
Paul explains that the law was added because of transgressions, but it does not nullify the promise made to Abraham. The law serves a purpose, yet it is the promise that secures the inheritance for believers. 8 By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. 9 By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. 10 For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. (Hebrews 11:8-10)
Abraham’s faith in the promise led him to live as a stranger in the land, looking forward to a city with foundations, which symbolizes the spiritual inheritance awaiting all believers
7. The Assurance of Inheritance
The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. 17Now if we are children, then we are heirs—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. (Romans 8:16-17)
Believers are described as children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ. This profound statement assures believers of their rightful place in God’s family and the blessings that accompany it. 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. (Colossians 3:24)
Paul encourages believers to work heartily, knowing they will receive an inheritance from the Lord. This reinforces the idea that our actions in faith have eternal significance.
Inheritance and Divine Favor
The theme of inheritance in Scripture is multifaceted, encompassing moral integrity, spiritual blessings, and the consequences of actions.
Integrity as a Foundation:
The integrity and trustworthiness are valued by God. In the context of inheritance, those who are heirs are called to live in a way that reflects honesty and reliability.
Impact on Legacy:
A trustworthy person not only secures their own legacy but also ensures that the inheritance they pass on—whether material or spiritual—is respected and preserved.
The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy. (Proverbs 12:22) •
True Value of Inheritance:
This proverb highlights the distinction between material and spiritual inheritance. While material wealth is significant, the greatest blessings often come from God, emphasizing relationships and wisdom.
Holistic Inheritance:
The verse invites readers to consider that the most valuable inheritances are those that enrich life spiritually and relationally, reminding heirs of the importance of seeking God’s blessings in all aspects. Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a prudent wife is from the LORD. (Proverbs 19:14)
Divine Favor Across Nations:
This passage highlights that Israel is seen as God’s inheritance, underscoring a unique relationship. The inclusion of other nations shows God’s universal love and His plan for redemption. •
Broader Understanding of Inheritance
It emphasizes that inheritance in God’s eyes transcends ethnic boundaries, inviting all people into His promise and blessings.
The LORD Almighty will bless them, saying, “Blessed be Egypt my people, Assyria my handiwork, and Israel my inheritance.” (Isaiah 19:25)
Consequences of Choices:
This verse illustrates the impact of disobedience and the loss of inheritance in the Promised Land. It reflects the broader biblical theme of consequences tied to faithfulness and rebellion.
Hope for Restoration:
The concept of a remnant signifies that, despite consequences, there is hope for restoration and a future inheritance for those who return to God, highlighting His mercy. “And it shall come to pass in that day that the remnant of Israel, and such as have escaped of the house of Jacob, will never again depend on him who defeated them, but will depend on the Lord, the Holy One of Israel, in truth. The remnant will return, the remnant of Jacob, to the Mighty God. For though your people, O Israel, be as the sand of the sea, a remnant of them will return.” (Isaiah 10:20-22)
This passage emphasizes that despite judgment, a faithful remnant will return to God and receive His mercy and restoration.
Restoration and Holiness:
This verse speaks of deliverance and restoration. Mount Zion symbolizes God’s presence and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises to His people.
“Yet I have set My King on My holy hill of Zion. I will declare the decree: The Lord has said to Me, ‘You are My Son, today I have begotten You. Ask of Me, and I will give You the nations for Your inheritance.'” (Psalm 2:6-8)
This passage indicates that Zion is not only a physical location but also symbolizes God’s chosen authority and the promise of inheritance through Christ. •
Spiritual Inheritance:
It affirms that true inheritance is not merely about physical land but involves spiritual blessings and the assurance of God’s faithfulness.
“But on Mount Zion will be deliverance; it will be holy, and Jacob will possess his inheritance.” (Obadiah 1:17)
The New Testament Perspective on Inheritance
https://shiel.in/faith-in-christianity/The New Testament presents a profound understanding of inheritance that combines promise, identity, and responsibility. Believers are invited to recognize their status as heirs of God, secured by the work of Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit. This inheritance calls for a life of faithfulness, holiness, and anticipation of the eternal blessings to come. Embracing this identity encourages Christians to reflect God’s character in their lives and live in a manner that honors their inheritance.
1.The Parable of the Wicked Tenants
“But when the tenants saw the son, they said to each other, ‘This is the heir. Come, let’s kill him and take his inheritance.’ (Matthew 21:38)
(Luke 20:14)
Rejecting God’s Inheritance:
In this parable, the tenants represent the religious leaders who refuse to accept the inheritance of the vineyard, symbolizing God’s kingdom. Their actions lead to their downfall, highlighting the seriousness of rejecting God’s message.
Call to Faithfulness:
Those entrusted with God’s promises are held accountable. The inheritance is not merely a gift but a responsibility to live faithfully and honor God’s intent
2. God’s Promises to Abraham
Legacy of Promise:
He gave him no inheritance here, not even enough ground to set his foot on. But God promised him that he and his descendants after him would possess the land, even though at that time Abraham had no child. (Acts 7:5)
Here it reflects God’s promise of land to Abraham,
to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’ (Acts 26:18)
Paul’s mission to include Gentiles in this inheritance. The theme emphasizes that inheritance is rooted in God’s faithfulness across generations.
Universal Inheritance:
The inclusion of Gentiles signifies that the promise of inheritance extends beyond Israel, inviting all who believe to participate in the blessings of God.
Co-heirs with Christ: Believers are children of God and co-heirs with Christ, inheriting both spiritual blessings and responsibilities.
Now if we are children, then we are heirs—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. (Romans 8:17)
This identity brings assurance and hope, encouraging believers to persevere through trials.
Connection to Suffering and Glory:
The path to inheritance involves sharing in Christ’s sufferings, highlighting that true glory often comes through trials.
Inheritance Rooted in Promise
For if the inheritance depends on the law, then it no longer depends on the promise; but God in his grace gave it to Abraham through a promise. (Galatians 3:18)
Promise Over Law:
Paul emphasizes that the inheritance is based on God’s promise to Abraham rather than adherence to the law. This distinction underscores the grace that characterizes the believer’s relationship with God.
Faith as the Key:
The inheritance is received through faith, inviting believers to trust in God’s promises rather than their own efforts.
3. Holy Spirit as a Guarantee
In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, (Ephesians 1:11)
Secured Inheritance:
who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory. (Ephesians 1:14)
The Holy Spirit is a deposit guaranteeing believers’ inheritance. This assurance fosters confidence in the promises of God.
Call to Holiness:
For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. (Ephesians 5:5) Here it warns that immoral behavior can jeopardize one’s inheritance in the kingdom, emphasizing the importance of living a life aligned with God’s values. 4.
Sharing in the Kingdom
And giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. (Colossians 1:12) • Joyful Participation: Believers are called to give thanks for their qualification to share in the inheritance of the saints. This joy reflects the grace and generosity of God.
Reward for Faithfulness:
since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. (Colossians 3:24) • Faithful service to the Lord will result in a reward, reinforcing the idea that inheritance is also tied to one’s actions and choices.
Eternal Security
And through your faith, God is protecting you by his power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see. (1 Peter 1:5)
Shielded by God’s Power:
This verse highlights that believers are protected until the revelation of their salvation. The emphasis on faith as a means of protection assures believers of their inheritance.
Eternal Perspective:
The focus on the future reinforces the notion that inheritance is not merely a present reality but includes eternal blessings. .
7. Mediator of a New Covenant •
Christ’s Role in Inheritance: 15 For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance—now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant. (Hebrews 9:15) Jesus is the mediator of a new covenant that guarantees eternal inheritance for believers, emphasizing the transformative power of this covenant.
Faithful Obedience:
By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. (Hebrews 11:8) Abraham’s faith in receiving God’s promises. His obedience serves as a model for believers who are called to trust and act on God’s leading. The rejection of God’s messengers serves as a reminder of the consequences of forsaking this inheritance. 7 “But the tenant farmers said to one another, ‘Here comes the heir to this estate. Let’s kill him and get the estate for ourselves!’ (Mark 12:7)) As heirs of the promise, believers are called to embrace and cherish the blessings God offers, both in this life and in the life to come. This inheritance not only encompasses material blessings but also spiritual richness, underscoring the depth of God’s love and the hope found in His promises.