InstaStudy

Heirs of God: Understanding Our Inheritance

A Bible study outline exploring the inheritance believers receive through Christ.

1. The Foundation of Sonship

1.1 Adoption into God's Family

Verses: Galatians 4:4-7; Ephesians 1:5
  • Through Jesus Christ, we are adopted as sons and daughters of God.
  • Adoption grants us the rights and privileges of family membership.
  • We are no longer slaves but children, and therefore heirs.

1.2 The Role of the Spirit

Verses: Romans 8:14-17; Galatians 4:6
  • The Spirit of God bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.
  • The Spirit empowers us to call God 'Abba, Father'.
  • The Spirit leads us into all truth and understanding of our inheritance.

2. The Nature of Our Inheritance

2.1 Eternal Life

Verses: John 3:16; Romans 6:23
  • The gift of eternal life is a core component of our inheritance.
  • This inheritance is not earned but freely given through faith in Jesus Christ.
  • It is a life that begins now and extends into eternity.

2.2 Righteousness

Verses: 2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 5:17
  • We receive the righteousness of God through Christ, making us acceptable in His sight.
  • This righteousness is imputed to us, meaning it is credited to our account.
  • It enables us to stand before God without condemnation.

2.3 The Kingdom of God

Verses: Matthew 6:33; Luke 12:32
  • We inherit a place in the Kingdom of God, both now and in the future.
  • This kingdom is characterized by righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
  • Seeking the Kingdom of God should be our primary focus.

3. Living as Heirs

3.1 Walking in Faith

Verses: Hebrews 11:1; Romans 4:16
  • Our inheritance is received through faith, not by works.
  • Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
  • We must live by faith, trusting in God's promises.

3.2 Overcoming the World

Verses: 1 John 5:4-5; Revelation 21:7
  • As heirs, we are empowered to overcome the world and its temptations.
  • Our faith in Jesus Christ is the key to victory.
  • Overcoming leads to inheriting all things.

4. The Guarantee of Our Inheritance

4.1 The Holy Spirit as Earnest

Verses: 2 Corinthians 1:22; Ephesians 1:13-14
  • The Holy Spirit is the earnest (down payment) of our inheritance, guaranteeing what is to come.
  • The Spirit seals us until the day of redemption.
  • The Spirit's presence is a constant reminder of our future glory.

4.2 Christ in You, the Hope of Glory

Verses: Colossians 1:27; Romans 8:10
  • Christ living within us is the assurance of our future glory.
  • The presence of Christ transforms us from the inside out.
  • This indwelling presence is the foundation of our hope.